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 without doubt one of the high issues to do within the Algarve, with stunning seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the placing Atlantic coast. Irrespective of the place you might be staying within the Algarve area of Portugal, ensure 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 vital 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 Seashore. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so ensure to put on good mountain climbing footwear and carry water.
Location: Algarve, Portugal
Size: 5.7 kilometers (a method)
Problem: Reasonable
Period: 3-4 hours (a method)
Greatest Time to Go to: Spring (March to Might) 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 out there close to the trailhead. Parking fills up shortly, and it’s troublesome to discover a spot. Overflow parking heaps are filled with potholes and dust roads, so watch out when you have rented a automobile. We practically bottomed out, making an attempt to get out of the parking zone.
For those who drive, you’ll have to hike again, so ensure 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 Lodge in Carvoiero, which supplied free shuttles to the beginning of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, and we might hike the complete approach again to the lodge.
What to Count on on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
In the course of the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you’ll be able to anticipate to see among the most stunning landscapes on earth. A number of years in the past, we hiked the Nice Ocean Highway in Australia and thought there might be no extra stunning place on earth. Nevertheless, the Seven Hanging Valleys has an analogous 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.
For those who don’t need to hike the 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, a minimum of 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 can be mountain climbing as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which mountain climbing down into villages and seashores. It’s not overly troublesome, however when you have 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 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 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, in case you take all day, you’ll be able to finish in Carvoiero to take pleasure in dinner, drinks or procuring.
Be sure that 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 without doubt 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 stunning seashores from the path earlier than heading again. For those who proceed to stroll you can see that the crowds skinny out.
Be sure that to take the time to hike out to the assorted viewpoints. There’s seashore entry, and you may go all the way down to loosen up 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 placing 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 points of interest of the Algarve, and it’s potential to see it from the path by way of its skylight. Nevertheless, there isn’t any entry to the within, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t one of the best.
It’s a widespread 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 advise reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The principles concerning tips on how to see it are consistently altering, and we’ve got 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 ensure to ebook with a licensed information.
4. Praia de Benagil
The following cease is Praia de Benagil. This can be a excellent place 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 approach.
The path is dotted with wildflowers and resilient shrubs. It’s possible you’ll be trying down on the views of the water consistently, however ensure to lookup each occasionally and maintain 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 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 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 placing sight with its basic white tower and pink 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 loosen up, hire an umbrella, or take pleasure in a beer. This stunning seashore has a big sea cave, golden sand, and alluring 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 usually 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 loosen up earlier than shifting on or calling a taxi.
7. Tivoli Carvoiero and Vale Covo Seashore
If you’re staying on the Tivoli Carvoeiro like us, you’ll be able to proceed to stroll to the lodge from the seashore. You’ll be able to really stroll all the best way to the city of Carvoiero from the Seven Hanging Valleys Path.
Vale Covo Seashore is a unprecedented cease with an enormous sea cave to view. There are stairs all the way down to the seashore which is just accessible at low tide.
Even if you’re not staying on the Tivoli Carvoiero, you’ll be able to proceed to stroll in direction of city. We noticed lots of people going by way 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 recognized for views by way 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 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 stupendous 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 a couple of stops in the past, however it’s value mountain climbing on to Carvoeiro. There are many eating choices, corresponding to 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. Mountaineering a method quite than out and again permits 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’ll be able to take pleasure in a dip within the sea earlier than heading again to your lodge.
Suggestions for Mountaineering 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.
Verify 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 preferrred.
Respect Nature: Follow marked paths to guard the delicate coastal atmosphere and keep away from disturbing wildlife.
Security First: Some components of the path are near cliff edges. Watch your step and maintain 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 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 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 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 stunning coastal trails!