The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a wonderful coastal hike positioned within the Algarve area of southern Portugal. This half-day hike is among the high issues to do within the Algarve, with stunning seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the putting Atlantic coast. Irrespective of the place you’re staying within the Algarve area of Portugal, be sure that 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, often known as one of the vital stunning 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 favored to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Seaside. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so be sure that to put on good mountain climbing sneakers and carry water.
Location: Algarve, Portugal
Size: 5.7 kilometers (a technique)
Issue: Reasonable
Length: 3-4 hours (a technique)
Finest Time to Go to: Spring (March to Could) and Autumn (September to November)
Getting There
By Automotive: From Faro, it’s a couple of 45-minute drive to Praia da Marinha. There’s parking obtainable close to the trailhead. Parking fills up rapidly, and it’s troublesome to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are filled with potholes and filth 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.
In case you drive, you’ll have to hike again, so be sure that 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 instantly from the seaside. The path connects to Carvoeiro; it’ll 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 approach again to the resort.
What to Anticipate on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
In the course of the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you may anticipate to see among the most stunning landscapes on earth. A number of years in the past, we hiked the Nice Ocean Street in Australia and thought there might be no extra stunning place on earth. Nonetheless, the Seven Hanging Valleys has the same 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 gives an unforgettable expertise for everybody.
In case 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 should you aren’t up for a hike, a minimum of make it to 1 or two of the lookout factors.
It’s an up-and-down climb (it’s known as the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, in spite of everything), so you’ll be mountain climbing as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which mountain climbing 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?
Probably the most picturesque a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path begins at Praia da Marina, so we propose beginning right here. Plus, should you take all day, you may finish in Carvoiero to get pleasure from dinner, drinks or purchasing.
Make sure 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 take advantage of your journey.
1. Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is the place to begin for many hikers, and it is among the most crowded locations. Lots of people hike out only a brief distance to view Elephant Rock and one in every of Portugal’s most stunning seashores from the path earlier than heading again. In case you proceed to stroll you will discover that the crowds skinny out.
Make sure that to take the time to hike out to the varied viewpoints. There’s seaside entry, and you may go all the way down to calm down on the golden sands, get pleasure from totally 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 putting 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 among the star sights of the Algarve, and it’s potential to see it from the path by its skylight. Nonetheless, there is no such thing as a entry to the within, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t the perfect.
It’s a common cease on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and there’s a close by car parking zone, so folks merely stroll out to see it.
In case you actually need to see Benagil Cave, we propose reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The principles concerning the best way to see it are consistently altering, and we’ve lined them right here. Nonetheless, no one is allowed to swim or step foot on the seaside contained in the cave, and solely organized excursions can take you. So be sure that to guide with a licensed information.
4. Praia de Benagil
The following cease is Praia de Benagil. This can be a great spot 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 approach.
The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. It’s possible you’ll be trying down on the views of the water consistently, however be sure that to search for each every now and then and preserve a watch out for seabirds hovering overhead. Often, you might even see dolphins within the waters beneath. We noticed them on our boat tour only a brief distance offshore.
5. Farol de Alfanzina (Alfanzina Lighthouse)
The path from Benagil to Alfanzina Lighthouse winds alongside cliffs which might be 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 putting sight with its basic white tower and pink roof.
This part of the path is comparatively reasonable, with well-marked paths that often grow to be rocky and uneven. Alongside the way in which, hikers can anticipate 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 calm down, hire an umbrella, or get pleasure from a beer. This stunning seaside has a big sea cave, golden sand, and alluring clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seaside, which gives a number of small caves and grottos to discover.
There’s a snack bar, and excursions could be booked right here. Regardless of its pure magnificence and facilities, Vale Centeanes Seaside is commonly 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 a very good place to calm down earlier than transferring on or calling a taxi.
7. Tivoli Carvoiero and Vale Covo Seaside
In case you are staying on the Tivoli Carvoeiro like us, you may proceed to stroll to the resort from the seaside. You possibly can truly stroll all the way in which to the city of Carvoiero from the Seven Hanging Valleys Path.
Vale Covo Seaside is a rare cease with a large sea cave to view. There are stairs all the way down to the seaside which is barely accessible at low tide.
Even in case you are not staying on the Tivoli Carvoiero, you may proceed to stroll in the direction of city. We noticed lots of people going by 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 its rock home windows. Probably the most notable is Boneca Cave, which interprets to “Doll’s Cave.” This pure formation has two window-like openings that body beautiful views of the ocean. A brief walkway and steps lead guests into the cave, the place they will benefit from the picturesque vistas.
9. Boardwalks
The path can proceed all alongside the coast, however it is 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 wonderful approach to benefit from the coastal views as you make your approach to the ultimate vacation spot.
10. Carvoeiro
The Seven Hanging Valleys Path ended a number of stops in the past, however it’s value mountain climbing on to Carvoeiro. There are many eating choices, reminiscent of sitting on a patio to get pleasure from views of the seaside, consuming some seafood, and sipping a cocktail.
It is usually simpler to rent an Uber or taxi from right here. Climbing a technique quite than out and again permits 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.
Suggestions for Climbing the Seven Hanging Valleys Path
Put on Correct Footwear: The path is rocky and uneven in locations. Sturdy mountain climbing boots or sneakers 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 could be intense. Put on sunscreen, a hat, and sun shades.
Test the Climate: Keep away from mountain climbing 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 supreme.
Respect Nature: Stick with marked paths to guard the delicate coastal atmosphere and keep away from disturbing wildlife.
Security First: Some elements of the path are near cliff edges. Watch your step and preserve a protected 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 an incredible location. Learn extra about the place to remain within the Algarve at our put up: The place to Keep in Algarve: 5 Finest Areas To Keep
The Seven Hanging Valleys Path is a must-do for anybody visiting the Algarve. With its dramatic cliffs, hidden seashores, and beautiful ocean views, this path showcases the pure fantastic thing about Portugal’s southern coast. Whether or not you’re an skilled hiker or simply searching for a scenic stroll, the Seven Hanging Valleys Path guarantees an unforgettable expertise.
So pack your digital camera, lace up your mountain climbing boots, and prepare to discover one in every of Portugal’s most stunning coastal trails!