The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a ravishing coastal hike positioned within the Algarve area of southern Portugal. This half-day hike is likely one of the high issues to do within the Algarve, with lovely seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the putting Atlantic coast. Regardless of the place you might be staying within the Algarve area of Portugal, be 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, generally known as some of the lovely seashores in Europe.
Hugging the Atlantic Ocean with excessive viewpoints, seashore entry, and even locations to take pleasure in 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 certain to put on good mountaineering sneakers and carry water.
- Location: Algarve, Portugal
- Size: 5.7 kilometers (a technique)
- Problem: Average
- Length: 3-4 hours (a technique)
- Finest 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 accessible close to the trailhead. Parking fills up rapidly, and it’s troublesome to discover a spot. Overflow parking tons are stuffed 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 certain to issue that into your time.
Public Transport: Buses run from main cities within the Algarve to Carvoeiro. From there, you possibly can rent a taxi, Uber, or Tuk Tuk.
From Carvoeiro, you possibly can take a taxi to the trailhead or hike instantly from the seashore. The path connects to Carvoeiro; it’s going to 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 the complete method again to the resort.
What to Anticipate on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
Through the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you possibly can anticipate to see a few of the most lovely landscapes on earth. Just a few years in the past, we hiked the Nice Ocean Street in Australia and thought there may very well be no extra lovely place on earth. Nevertheless, the Seven Hanging Valleys has an identical 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.
In case you don’t need to hike the complete 5.7 km, there are parking tons dotted all through the hike, so you possibly can exit and see a portion of the path and its views. So, even when 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 may 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 downside, and the bottom is uneven.
From the car parking zone of Praia da Marinha, it’s even so that you don’t need to climb as much as begin the journey. If you wish to go to the seashore, there may be one entry level and you’ll have to scramble down. So simply keep in mind, you’ll have to come again up.
Which Course 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, when you take all day, you possibly can finish in Carvoiero to take pleasure in dinner, drinks or purchasing.
Make certain 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 will help you take advantage of your journey.
1. Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is the place to begin for many hikers, and it is likely one of the most crowded locations. Lots of people hike out only a quick distance to view Elephant Rock and one among Portugal’s most lovely seashores from the path earlier than heading again. In case you proceed to stroll one can find that the crowds skinny out.
Make certain to take the time to hike out to the varied viewpoints. There’s seashore entry, and you may go all the way down to chill out on the golden sands, take pleasure in totally different views of the seashore’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 varied views of the ocean arches and suggestive shoreline.
3. Benagil Cave
Benagil Cave is likely one of the star points of interest of the Algarve, and it’s doable to see it from the path by means of its skylight. Nevertheless, there is no such thing as a entry to the within, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t the most effective.
It’s a widespread 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 advise reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The principles relating to the best way to see it are always altering, and now we have coated them right here. Nevertheless, no one is allowed to swim or step foot on the seashore contained in the cave, and solely organized excursions can take you. So be certain to e-book with a licensed information.
4. Praia de Benagil
The following cease is Praia de Benagil. This can be a good spot to take a break, seize some lunch, and benefit from the seashore. You’ll have to stroll down a set of stairs to the seashore 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 method.
The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. Chances are you’ll be wanting down on the views of the water always, however be certain to lookup each occasionally and hold 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 quick distance offshore.
5. Farol de Alfanzina (Alfanzina Lighthouse)
The path from Benagil to Alfanzina Lighthouse winds alongside cliffs which can 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 traditional white tower and pink roof.
This part of the path is comparatively reasonable, with well-marked paths that sometimes grow to be rocky and uneven. Alongside the best way, 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 chill out, hire an umbrella, or take pleasure in a beer. This lovely seashore has a big sea cave, golden sand, and alluring clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seashore, 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 a few of the extra well-known Algarve seashores. Most individuals don’t make it this far on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, so it’s a superb place to chill out 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 possibly can proceed to stroll to the resort from the seashore. You may really stroll all the best way 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 seashore which is barely accessible at low tide.
Even in case you are not staying on the Tivoli Carvoiero, you possibly can proceed to stroll in the direction of city. We noticed lots of people going by means 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 identified for views by means 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 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 this can be a good level to only benefit from the boardwalks and views till you get to the city of Carvoeiro. The boardwalk is accessible and a ravishing strategy to benefit from the coastal views as you make your strategy to the ultimate vacation spot.
10. Carvoeiro
The Seven Hanging Valleys Path ended just a few stops in the past, however it’s price mountaineering on to Carvoeiro. There are many eating choices, reminiscent of sitting on a patio to take pleasure in views of the seashore, consuming some seafood, and sipping a cocktail.
It’s also simpler to rent an Uber or taxi from right here. Climbing a technique relatively than out and again helps you to see rather more of the Carvoeiro Coastal Stroll that continues after the Seven Hanging Valleys Path. Plus, Carvoeiro has a seashore the place you possibly can take pleasure in 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 mountaineering boots or sneakers with good grip are important.
Keep Hydrated: There aren’t any amenities alongside the path, so convey loads of water and a few snacks.
Solar Safety: The Algarve solar might be intense. Put on sunscreen, a hat, and sun shades.
Examine 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 ultimate.
Respect Nature: Persist with marked paths to guard the delicate coastal setting and keep away from disturbing wildlife.
Security First: Some components 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 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 great thing about Portugal’s southern coast. Whether or not you’re an skilled hiker or simply in search of a scenic stroll, the Seven Hanging Valleys Path guarantees an unforgettable expertise.
So pack your digicam, lace up your mountaineering boots, and prepare to discover one among Portugal’s most lovely coastal trails!
