The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a phenomenal coastal hike situated within the Algarve area of southern Portugal. This half-day hike is among the prime issues to do within the Algarve, with lovely seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the placing Atlantic coast. Regardless of the place you’re staying within the Algarve area of Portugal, be sure 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 called one of the crucial lovely seashores in Europe.
Hugging the Atlantic Ocean with excessive viewpoints, seashore entry, and even locations to get pleasure from meals and wine, the journey begins with attractive views of Acro Pure, or as our information appreciated to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Seashore. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so be sure to put on good mountain climbing 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 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 shortly, and it’s tough to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are filled with potholes and filth roads, so watch out you probably have rented a automobile. We practically bottomed out, attempting to get out of the parking zone.
Should you drive, you’ll have to hike again, so be sure 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 straight from the seashore. The path connects to Carvoeiro; it would simply add a bit extra time
We stayed on the Tivoli Carvoiero Lodge in Carvoiero, which supplied free shuttles to the beginning of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and we might hike the whole manner 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 count on to see among 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 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.
Should you don’t need to hike the whole 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 case you aren’t up for a hike, at the least 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 spite of everything), so you may be mountain climbing as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which mountain climbing down into villages and seashores. It’s not overly tough, however you probably have mobility points, it’s a downside, and the bottom is uneven.
From the parking zone of Praia da Marinha, it’s even so that you don’t should 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 Path Ought to You Hike?
Probably the most picturesque a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path begins at Praia da Marina, so we advise beginning right here. Plus, in case you take all day, you may finish in Carvoiero to get pleasure from dinner, drinks or buying.
Be sure that to start out 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 start line for many hikers, and it is among 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. Should you proceed to stroll you will see that that the crowds skinny out.
Be sure that to take the time to hike out to the varied viewpoints. There’s seashore entry, and you may go right down to calm down on the golden sands, get pleasure from 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 placing 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 among the star points of interest of the Algarve, and it’s attainable to see it from the path by its skylight. Nevertheless, there isn’t a entry to the within, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t one of the best.
It’s a in style cease on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and there’s a close by parking zone, so individuals merely stroll out to see it.
Should you actually need to see Benagil Cave, we advise reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The principles relating to how you can see it are continually altering, and we now have lined 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 sure to e book with a licensed information.
4. Praia de Benagil
The following cease is Praia de Benagil. It is 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 crimson stripes on rocks and signposts. These markers will information you alongside the route. We had no bother discovering our manner.
The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. It’s possible you’ll be trying down on the views of the water continually, however be sure to search for each every so often and preserve an eye fixed out for seabirds hovering overhead. Often, you might even see dolphins within the waters under. 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 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 method 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 placing sight with its traditional white tower and crimson roof.
This part of the path is comparatively reasonable, with well-marked paths that often turn out to be rocky and uneven. Alongside the best way, 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 Seashore
Vale Centeanes Seashore is the path’s endpoint and a very good place to calm down, lease an umbrella, or get pleasure from a beer. This lovely seashore has a big sea cave, golden sand, and welcoming clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seashore, 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 Seashore 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 place to calm down earlier than transferring on or calling a taxi.
7. Tivoli Carvoiero and Vale Covo Seashore
If you’re staying on the Tivoli Carvoeiro like us, you may proceed to stroll to the resort from the seashore. You possibly can really stroll all the best way to the city of Carvoiero from the Seven Hanging Valleys Path.
Vale Covo Seashore is a rare cease with a large sea cave to view. There are stairs right down to the seashore 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 identified 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 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 it is 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 phenomenal method to benefit from the coastal views as you make your method 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, equivalent to sitting on a patio to get pleasure from views of the seashore, 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 allows you to see far more of the Carvoeiro Coastal Stroll that continues after the Seven Hanging Valleys Path. Plus, Carvoeiro has a seashore 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 mountain climbing boots or footwear with good grip are important.
Keep Hydrated: There are not any amenities alongside the path, so deliver 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: 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 preserve 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 provide 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 put up: 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 fantastic 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 mountain climbing boots, and prepare to discover one among Portugal’s most lovely coastal trails!