How To Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Path: The Final Information

The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a fantastic coastal hike situated within the Algarve area of southern Portugal. This half-day hike is likely one of the high 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 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 one of the vital 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 beautiful 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 footwear and carry water.

• Location: Algarve, Portugal
• Size: 5.7 kilometers (a method)
• Issue: Average
• Length: 3-4 hours (a method)
• 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 shortly, and it’s tough to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are filled with potholes and dust roads, so watch out when you have rented a automotive. We practically 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 straight 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 supplied free shuttles to the beginning of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and we may hike all the means again to the lodge.

What to Anticipate on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike

Through the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you’ll be able to count on to see a few 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. 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 affords 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’ll be able to exit and see a portion of the path and its views. So, even for those who 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 spite of everything), so you can be climbing as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which climbing down into villages and seashores. It’s not overly tough, however when 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’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 advise beginning right here. Plus, for those who take all day, you’ll be able to finish in Carvoiero to get pleasure from dinner, drinks or buying.

Be certain 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 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 brief distance to view Elephant Rock and considered one of Portugal’s most stunning seashores from the path earlier than heading again. In case you proceed to stroll you’ll find that the crowds skinny out.

Be 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 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 varied views of the ocean arches and suggestive shoreline.

3. Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave is likely one of the star sights of the Algarve, and it’s attainable to see it from the path via 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 most effective.

It’s a widespread cease on the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and there’s a close by car parking zone, so individuals 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 foundations concerning how one can see it are continually altering, and now we have coated them right here. Nonetheless, 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. 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 hassle discovering our means.

The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. You might be trying down on the views of the water continually, however be certain to search for each now and again and hold a watch out for seabirds hovering overhead. Sometimes, 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 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 crimson roof.

This part of the path is comparatively reasonable, with well-marked paths that often change into rocky and uneven. Alongside the way in which, 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 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 could be booked right here. Regardless of its pure magnificence and facilities, Vale Centeanes Seashore 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 calm down earlier than shifting 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 way in which to the city of Carvoiero from the Seven Hanging Valleys Path.

Vale Covo Seashore is a unprecedented cease with a large sea cave to view. There are stairs all the way down to the seashore which is just accessible at low tide.

Even in case you are not staying on the Tivoli Carvoiero, you’ll be able to proceed to stroll in the 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. 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 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 fantastic 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 climbing on to Carvoeiro. There are many eating choices, comparable to sitting on a patio to get pleasure from views of the seashore, consuming some seafood, and sipping a cocktail.

It’s also simpler to rent an Uber or taxi from right here. Mountain climbing a method slightly than out and again permits 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’ll be able to get pleasure from a dip within the sea earlier than heading again to your lodge.

Suggestions for Mountain climbing the Seven Hanging Valleys Path

Put on Correct Footwear: The path is rocky and uneven in locations. Sturdy climbing boots or footwear with good grip are important.

Keep Hydrated: There are not any services alongside the path, so convey loads of water and a few snacks.

Solar Safety: The Algarve solar could 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 very best.

Respect Nature: Stick 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 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 provide 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 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 on the lookout for a scenic stroll, the Seven Hanging Valleys Path guarantees an unforgettable expertise.

So pack your digital camera, lace up your climbing boots, and prepare to discover considered one of Portugal’s most stunning coastal trails!