The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a stupendous 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 stunning 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, 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 Praia da Marinha and Praia do Vale de Centianes. You can begin from both finish, however most hikers start at Praia da Marinha, often called probably the most stunning 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 appreciated to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Seaside. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so be sure to put on good mountaineering sneakers and carry water.
- Location: Algarve, Portugal
- Size: 5.7 kilometers (a technique)
- Issue: Reasonable
- Length: 3-4 hours (a technique)
- Beginning Level:Praia da Marinha
- Finish Level: Praia do Vale de Centianes
- 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 tough to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are stuffed with potholes and grime roads, so watch out when you’ve got rented a automotive. We almost bottomed out, attempting to get out of the parking zone.
For those who 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 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 Lodge in Carvoiero, which provided free shuttles to the beginning of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and we might hike the complete approach again to the resort.
What to Anticipate on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
Throughout the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you possibly can count on to see a few of the most stunning landscapes on earth. Just a few years in the past, we hiked the Nice Ocean Highway in Australia and thought there could possibly be no extra stunning 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 affords an unforgettable expertise for everybody.
For those who don’t need to hike the complete 5.7 km, there are parking heaps 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, at the very least make it to at least one or two of the lookout factors.
It’s an up-and-down climb (it’s referred to 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 tough, however when you’ve got mobility points, it’s a drawback, and the bottom is uneven.
From the 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 seashore, there’s one entry level and you’ll have to scramble down. So simply bear 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, when you take all day, you possibly can finish in Carvoiero to take pleasure in dinner, drinks or procuring.
Make 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 will help 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 brief distance to view Elephant Rock and one among Portugal’s most stunning seashores from the path earlier than heading again. For those who proceed to stroll you’ll find that the crowds skinny out.
Make sure that to take the time to hike out to the assorted viewpoints. There’s seashore entry, and you may go right down to calm down on the golden sands, take pleasure in completely 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 hanging 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 any entry to the within, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t the perfect.
It’s a fashionable cease on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and there’s a close by parking zone, so individuals merely stroll out to see it.
For those who actually need to see Benagil Cave, we propose reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The principles relating to methods to see it are always 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 pink stripes on rocks and signposts. These markers will information you alongside the route. We had no hassle discovering our approach.
The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. Chances are you’ll be trying down on the views of the water always, however be sure to search for each now and again and preserve an eye fixed out for seabirds hovering overhead. Sometimes, you might even see dolphins within the waters under. 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 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 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 hanging sight with its basic white tower and pink roof.
This part of the path is comparatively reasonable, with well-marked paths that sometimes turn out 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 take pleasure in a beer. This stunning seashore has a big sea cave, golden sand, and welcoming clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seashore, which affords 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 an excellent 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 possibly can proceed to stroll to the resort from the seashore. You’ll be able to really 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 an enormous sea cave to view. There are stairs right down to the seashore which is simply accessible at low tide.
Even if you’re not staying on the Tivoli Carvoiero, you possibly can proceed to stroll in 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 beautiful 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 simply benefit from the boardwalks and views till you get to the city of Carvoeiro. The boardwalk is accessible and a stupendous 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 a couple of 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.
Additionally it is simpler to rent an Uber or taxi from right here. Mountain climbing a technique moderately than out and again allows you to see way 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.
Ideas for Mountain 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 are not any services 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.
Verify 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 very best.
Respect Nature: Persist with marked paths to guard the delicate coastal surroundings and keep away from disturbing wildlife.
Security First: Some components 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 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 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 mountaineering boots, and prepare to discover one among Portugal’s most stunning coastal trails!
