The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a phenomenal coastal hike positioned within the Algarve area of southern Portugal. This half-day hike is without doubt one of the prime issues to do within the Algarve, with lovely seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the hanging Atlantic coast. Irrespective of the place you’re staying within the Algarve area of Portugal, make certain to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Path for a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Seven Hanging Valleys Path – The Particulars
The Seven Hanging Valleys path runs between the seashores of Vale Centeanes and Praia da Marinha. You can begin from both finish, however most hikers start at Praia da Marinha, referred to as some of the lovely seashores in Europe.
Hugging the Atlantic Ocean with excessive viewpoints, seaside entry, and even locations to get pleasure from meals and wine, the journey begins with attractive views of Acro Pure, or as our information preferred to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Seaside. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so make certain to put on good mountaineering footwear and carry water.
- Location: Algarve, Portugal
- Size: 5.7 kilometers (a technique)
- Issue: Average
- Period: 3-4 hours (a technique)
- Greatest Time to Go to: Spring (March to Could) and Autumn (September to November)
Getting There
By Automobile: From Faro, it’s a couple of 45-minute drive to Praia da Marinha. There’s parking out there close to the trailhead. Parking fills up rapidly, and it’s troublesome to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are filled with potholes and dust roads, so watch out if in case you have rented a automotive. We almost bottomed out, attempting to get out of the car parking zone.
When you drive, you’ll have to hike again, so make certain to issue that into your time.
Public Transport: Buses run from main cities within the Algarve to Carvoeiro. From there, you may rent a taxi, Uber, or Tuk Tuk.
From Carvoeiro, you may take a taxi to the trailhead or hike immediately from the seaside. The path connects to Carvoeiro; it should simply add a bit extra time
We stayed on the Tivoli Carvoiero Resort in Carvoiero, which supplied free shuttles to the beginning of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and we may hike all the means again to the resort.
What to Anticipate on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
Through the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you may anticipate to see among the most lovely landscapes on earth. A number of years in the past, we hiked the Nice Ocean Highway in Australia and thought there might be no extra lovely place on earth. Nonetheless, the Seven Hanging Valleys has an analogous panorama, compacted into one small space, making it one extraordinary view after one other. You’ll see excessive sea cliffs, hidden caves, and panoramic ocean views; this path provides an unforgettable expertise for everybody.
When you don’t need to hike all the 5.7 km, there are parking heaps dotted all through the hike, so you may exit and see a portion of the path and its views. So, even in the event you aren’t up for a hike, no less than make it to at least one or two of the lookout factors.
It’s an up-and-down climb (it’s known as the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, in any case), so you’ll be mountaineering as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which mountaineering down into villages and seashores. It’s not overly troublesome, however if in case you have mobility points, it’s a drawback, and the bottom is uneven.
From the car parking zone of Praia da Marinha, it’s even so that you don’t must climb as much as begin the journey. If you wish to go to the seaside, there’s one entry level and you’ll have to scramble down. So simply keep in mind, you’ll have to come again up.
Which Route Ought to You Hike?
Essentially the most picturesque a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path begins at Praia da Marina, so we advise beginning right here. Plus, in the event you take all day, you may finish in Carvoiero to get pleasure from dinner, drinks or buying.
Be certain that to begin early within the morning when it’s cooler and fewer crowds.
Issues to See on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
Right here’s a complete information that can assist you benefit from your journey.
1. Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is the place to begin for many hikers, and it is without doubt one of the most crowded locations. Lots of people hike out only a quick distance to view Elephant Rock and one in every of Portugal’s most lovely seashores from the path earlier than heading again. When you proceed to stroll you can see that the crowds skinny out.
Be certain that to take the time to hike out to the assorted viewpoints. There may be seaside entry, and you’ll go right down to loosen up on the golden sands, get pleasure from completely different views of the seaside’s iconic double arch, and discover sea caves.
2. Clifftop Views
As you ascend from Praia da Marinha, you’ll be greeted with extra hanging views of the Atlantic Ocean. Trails lead out to a excessive plateau, providing numerous views of the ocean arches and suggestive shoreline.
3. Benagil Cave
Benagil Cave is without doubt one of the star points of interest of the Algarve, and it’s potential to see it from the path by way of its skylight. Nonetheless, there isn’t any entry to the within, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t the most effective.
It’s a standard cease on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and there’s a close by car parking zone, so individuals merely stroll out to see it.
When you actually need to see Benagil Cave, we advise reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The foundations relating to easy methods to see it are continually altering, and we’ve got coated them right here. Nonetheless, no person is allowed to swim or step foot on the seaside contained in the cave, and solely organized excursions can take you. So make certain to ebook with a licensed information.
4. Praia de Benagil
The subsequent cease is Praia de Benagil. It is a excellent place to take a break, seize some lunch, and benefit from the seaside. You’ll have to stroll down a set of stairs to the seaside and city, however the path is well-marked with yellow and pink stripes on rocks and signposts. These markers will information you alongside the route. We had no bother discovering our means.
The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. It’s possible you’ll be wanting down on the views of the water continually, however make certain to search for each from time to time and hold an eye fixed out for seabirds hovering overhead. Often, you may even see dolphins within the waters beneath. We noticed them on our boat tour only a quick distance offshore.
5. Farol de Alfanzina (Alfanzina Lighthouse)
The path from Benagil to Alfanzina Lighthouse winds alongside cliffs which are a bit extra rugged than the remainder of the path. From Benagil, its an uphill climb up a set of stairs. As you strategy Alfanzina Lighthouse, you’ll encounter lush Mediterranean vegetation and the occasional sighting of seabirds.
The lighthouse itself is perched on a excessive cliff and is a hanging sight with its traditional white tower and pink roof.
This part of the path is comparatively average, with well-marked paths that often grow to be rocky and uneven. Alongside the way in which, hikers can look forward to finding quite a few alternatives to pause and take within the vistas, together with the rock formation at Cabo Caroeir and the well-known Leixão do Ladrão.
6. Vale Centeanes Seaside
Vale Centeanes Seaside is the path’s endpoint and a very good place to loosen up, lease an umbrella, or get pleasure from a beer. This lovely seaside has a big sea cave, golden sand, and welcoming clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seaside, which provides a number of small caves and grottos to discover.
There’s a snack bar, and excursions might be booked right here. Regardless of its pure magnificence and facilities, Vale Centeanes Seaside is usually much less crowded than among the extra well-known Algarve seashores. Most individuals don’t make it this far on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, so it’s place to loosen up earlier than shifting on or calling a taxi.
7. Tivoli Carvoiero and Vale Covo Seaside
If you’re staying on the Tivoli Carvoeiro like us, you may proceed to stroll to the resort from the seaside. You’ll be able to truly stroll all the way in which to the city of Carvoiero from the Seven Hanging Valleys Path.
Vale Covo Seaside is a unprecedented cease with an enormous sea cave to view. There are stairs right down to the seaside which is barely accessible at low tide.
Even if you’re not staying on the Tivoli Carvoiero, you may proceed to stroll in direction of city. We noticed lots of people going by way of the gates for entry.
8. Algar Seco
After one other up-and-down and back-up hike, you’ll come to the well-known rock formations of Algar Seco. That is recognized for views by way of its rock home windows. Essentially the most notable is Boneca Cave, which interprets to “Doll’s Cave.” This pure formation has two window-like openings that body gorgeous views of the ocean. A brief walkway and steps lead guests into the cave, the place they’ll benefit from the picturesque vistas.
9. Boardwalks
The path can proceed all alongside the coast, however this can be a good level to simply benefit from the boardwalks and views till you get to the city of Carvoeiro. The boardwalk is accessible and a phenomenal solution to benefit from the coastal views as you make your solution to the ultimate vacation spot.
10. Carvoeiro
The Seven Hanging Valleys Path ended a couple of stops in the past, however it’s price mountaineering on to Carvoeiro. There are many eating choices, corresponding to sitting on a patio to get pleasure from views of the seaside, consuming some seafood, and sipping a cocktail.
Additionally it is simpler to rent an Uber or taxi from right here. Climbing a technique reasonably than out and again helps you to see far more of the Carvoeiro Coastal Stroll that continues after the Seven Hanging Valleys Path. Plus, Carvoeiro has a seaside the place you may get pleasure from a dip within the sea earlier than heading again to your resort.
Ideas for Climbing the Seven Hanging Valleys Path
Put on Correct Footwear: The path is rocky and uneven in locations. Sturdy mountaineering boots or footwear with good grip are important.
Keep Hydrated: There are not any amenities alongside the path, so carry loads of water and a few snacks.
Solar Safety: The Algarve solar might be intense. Put on sunscreen, a hat, and sun shades.
Test the Climate: Keep away from mountaineering throughout excessive warmth or inclement climate. Keep away from the path throughout excessive winds or rain, as it may be harmful Early mornings or late afternoons are splendid.
Respect Nature: Keep on with marked paths to guard the delicate coastal surroundings and keep away from disturbing wildlife.
Security First: Some elements of the path are near cliff edges. Watch your step and hold a secure distance from the sting. Keep away from venturing too near the cliff edges, as they are often unstable. We noticed lots of people standing dangerously near the sting.
Lodging
The place to Keep: The close by cities of Carvoeiro and Lagoa supply loads of lodging choices, starting from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. We stayed on the Tivoli Carvoeiro, which is in a tremendous location. Learn extra about the place to remain within the Algarve at our publish: The place to Keep in Algarve: 5 Greatest Areas To Keep
The Seven Hanging Valleys Path is a must-do for anybody visiting the Algarve. With its dramatic cliffs, hidden seashores, and gorgeous ocean views, this path showcases the pure great thing about Portugal’s southern coast. Whether or not you’re an skilled hiker or simply on the lookout for a scenic stroll, the Seven Hanging Valleys Path guarantees an unforgettable expertise.
So pack your digital camera, lace up your mountaineering boots, and prepare to discover one in every of Portugal’s most lovely coastal trails!
