The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a ravishing coastal hike situated 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 stunning seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the hanging 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, often called some of the stunning 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 preferred to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Seashore. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so be certain to put on good climbing sneakers and carry water.
Location: Algarve, Portugal
Size: 5.7 kilometers (a technique)
Issue: Reasonable
Period: 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 few 45-minute drive to Praia da Marinha. There’s parking accessible close to the trailhead. Parking fills up shortly, and it’s tough to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are stuffed with potholes and filth roads, so watch out in case you have rented a automobile. 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’ll be able to rent a taxi, Uber, or Tuk Tuk.
From Carvoeiro, you’ll be able to take a taxi to the trailhead or hike instantly from the seashore. The path connects to Carvoeiro; it should simply add a bit extra time
We stayed on the Tivoli Carvoiero Resort in Carvoiero, which provided free shuttles to the beginning of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and we might hike your complete means again to the lodge.
What to Count on on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
Through the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you’ll be able to anticipate to see a number of the most stunning landscapes on earth. A couple of years in the past, we hiked the Nice Ocean Street in Australia and thought there might 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 presents an unforgettable expertise for everybody.
In case you don’t wish to hike your complete 5.7 km, there are parking heaps dotted all through the hike, so you’ll be able to exit and see a portion of the path and its views. So, even in case 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 spite of everything), so you’ll be climbing as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which climbing down into villages and seashores. It’s not overly tough, however 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 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 Route Ought to You Hike?
Essentially the most picturesque a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path begins at Praia da Marina, so we propose beginning right here. Plus, in case you take all day, you’ll be able to finish in Carvoiero to get pleasure from dinner, drinks or buying.
Be sure 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 take advantage of 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 stunning seashores from the path earlier than heading again. In case you proceed to stroll one can find that the crowds skinny out.
Be sure to take the time to hike out to the assorted viewpoints. There’s seashore entry, and you may go all the way 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 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 sights of the Algarve, and it’s potential to see it from the path via 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 one of the best.
It’s a fashionable 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 wish to see Benagil Cave, we propose reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The principles concerning learn how to see it are continually altering, and we’ve got coated them right here. Nevertheless, no person 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 subsequent cease is Praia de Benagil. This can be a great 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 purple stripes on rocks and signposts. These markers will information you alongside the route. We had no hassle discovering our means.
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 certain to search for each every so often and hold a watch out for seabirds hovering overhead. Sometimes, you may 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 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 purple roof.
This part of the path is comparatively average, with well-marked paths that sometimes grow 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, hire an umbrella, or get pleasure from a beer. This stunning seashore has a big sea cave, golden sand, and alluring clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seashore, which presents 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 Seashore is commonly much less crowded than a number 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 Seashore
In case you are staying on the Tivoli Carvoeiro like us, you’ll be able to proceed to stroll to the lodge 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 an enormous 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’ll be able to proceed to stroll in direction of city. We noticed lots of people going via 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 via 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 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 technique to benefit from the coastal views as you make your technique to the ultimate vacation spot.
10. Carvoeiro
The Seven Hanging Valleys Path ended just a few stops in the past, however it’s value 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 permits 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’ll be able to get pleasure from a dip within the sea earlier than heading again to your lodge.
Suggestions for Climbing the Seven Hanging Valleys Path
Put on Correct Footwear: The path is rocky and uneven in locations. Sturdy climbing boots or sneakers with good grip are important.
Keep Hydrated: There aren’t 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.
Examine the Climate: Keep away from 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 best.
Respect Nature: Follow marked paths to guard the delicate coastal setting and keep away from disturbing wildlife.
Security First: Some elements of the path are near cliff edges. Watch your step and hold 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 submit: 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 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 searching for a scenic stroll, the Seven Hanging Valleys Path guarantees an unforgettable expertise.
So pack your digicam, lace up your climbing boots, and prepare to discover one in every of Portugal’s most stunning coastal trails!