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How To Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: The Ultimate Guide

How To Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: The Ultimate Guide

The Seven Hanging Valleys Path (Sete Vales Suspensos) is a ravishing coastal hike positioned within the Algarve area of southern Portugal. This half-day hike is among the high issues to do within the Algarve, with lovely seashores, pure arches, limestone cliffs, and views of the placing Atlantic coast. Irrespective of the place you’re staying within the Algarve area of Portugal, make sure that to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Path for a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.

Seven Hanging Valleys Path – The Particulars

Hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in The Algarve
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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 some of the 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 beautiful views of Acro Pure, or as our information favored to name it, Elephant Rock and Praia da Marinha Seashore. It’s a reasonably difficult hike, so make sure that to put on good mountaineering sneakers and carry water.

Location: Algarve, Portugal
Size: 5.7 kilometers (a method)
Problem: Reasonable
Period: 3-4 hours (a method)
Finest Time to Go to: Spring (March to Might) and Autumn (September to November)

Getting There

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Map
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Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Map
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By Automobile: From Faro, it’s a few 45-minute drive to Praia da Marinha. There’s parking obtainable close to the trailhead. Parking fills up rapidly, and it’s tough to discover a spot. Overflow parking tons are stuffed with potholes and grime roads, so watch out if in case you have rented a automobile. We almost bottomed out, making an attempt to get out of the car parking zone.

If you happen to drive, you’ll have to hike again, so make sure that 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 can 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 lodge.

What to Count on on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike

Rock formations on the Seven Hanging Valley Trail in algarve
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Rock formations on the Seven Hanging Valley Trail in algarve
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Throughout the Seven Hanging Valleys path hike, you may count on to see a few of the most lovely landscapes on earth. A couple of 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 an identical 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 provides an unforgettable expertise for everybody.

If you happen to don’t need to hike the complete 5.7 km, there are parking tons dotted all through the hike, so you may exit and see a portion of the path and its views. So, even for those who aren’t up for a hike, at the very least make it to 1 or two of the lookout factors.

Looking north along the Algarve coast from the start of the seven hanging Valleys trail
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Looking north along the Algarve coast from the start of the seven hanging Valleys trail
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It’s an up-and-down climb (it’s known as the Seven Hanging Valleys Path, in spite of everything), so you may be mountaineering as much as plateaus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean after which mountaineering down into villages and seashores. It’s not overly tough, however if in case you have mobility points, it’s a drawback, and the bottom is uneven.

From the car 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 may be one entry level and you’ll have to scramble down. So simply bear in mind, you’ll have to come again up.

Which Path Ought to You Hike?

Best direction to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
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Best direction to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
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Essentially the most picturesque a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Path begins at Praia da Marina, so we recommend beginning right here. Plus, for those who take all day, you may finish in Carvoiero to get pleasure from dinner, drinks or procuring.

Ensure that to start out early within the morning when it’s cooler and fewer crowds.

Issues to See on the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike

What to see on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Map
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What to see on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Map
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Right here’s a complete information that will help you take advantage of your journey.

1. Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha Algarve Portugal
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Praia da Marinha Algarve Portugal
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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 considered one of Portugal’s most lovely seashores from the path earlier than heading again. If you happen to proceed to stroll you will see that that the crowds skinny out.

Ensure that to take the time to hike out to the assorted viewpoints. There may be seashore entry, and you may go right down to loosen up on the golden sands, get pleasure from totally different views of the seashore’s iconic double arch, and discover sea caves.

2. Clifftop Views

Clifftop views from the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
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Clifftop views from the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
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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 from the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
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Benagil Cave from the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
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Benagil Cave is among the star sights of the Algarve, and it’s doable to see it from the path by way of its skylight. Nevertheless, there isn’t a entry to the within, and there are ropes round it, so the view isn’t the most effective.

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.

If you happen to actually need to see Benagil Cave, we recommend reserving an organized tour by boat or kayak. The foundations concerning learn how to see it are continuously altering, and we’ve 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 make sure that to ebook with a licensed information.

4. Praia de Benagil

Praia de Benagil in Algarve
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Praia de Benagil in Algarve
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The following cease is Praia de Benagil. It is 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 purple 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. You might be trying down on the views of the water continuously, however make sure that to search for each infrequently and preserve an eye fixed 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)

Farol de Alfanzina Algarve Portugal
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Farol de Alfanzina Algarve Portugal
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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 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 purple roof.

This part of the path is comparatively reasonable, 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 Beach from the Seven Hanging Valleys Trial
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Vale Centeanes Beach from the Seven Hanging Valleys Trial
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Vale Centeanes Seashore is the path’s endpoint and a very good place to loosen up, hire an umbrella, or get pleasure from a beer. This lovely seashore has a big sea cave, golden sand, and alluring clear waters. Towering limestone cliffs body the seashore, which provides a number of small caves and grottos to discover.

There’s a snack bar, and excursions may 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 very good place to loosen up earlier than shifting on or calling a taxi.

7. Tivoli Carvoiero and Vale Covo Seashore

sunset from the Tivoli Carvoeiro in algarve Portugal
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sunset from the Tivoli Carvoeiro in algarve Portugal
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In case you are staying on the Tivoli Carvoeiro like us, you may 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 unprecedented cease with a large sea cave to view. There are stairs right down to the seashore which is barely accessible at low tide.

Even if you’re not staying on the Tivoli Carvoiero, you may proceed to stroll in direction of city. We noticed lots of people going by way of the gates for entry.

8. Algar Seco

Algar Seco in algarve Portugal
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Algar Seco in algarve Portugal
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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 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 approach to benefit from the coastal views as you make your approach to the ultimate vacation spot.

10. Carvoeiro

The Algarve Town of Carvoeiro
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The Algarve Town of Carvoeiro
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The Seven Hanging Valleys Path ended a couple of stops in the past, however it’s value mountaineering on to Carvoeiro. There are many eating choices, resembling 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. Mountaineering a method moderately 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 lodge.

Suggestions for Mountaineering the Seven Hanging Valleys Path

Tips for hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in algarve
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Tips for hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in algarve
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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 amenities alongside the path, so carry loads of water and a few snacks.

Solar Safety: The Algarve solar may be intense. Put on sunscreen, a hat, and sun shades.

Examine 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 preferrred.

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 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

View of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail from The Tivoli Carvoeiro
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View of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail from The Tivoli Carvoeiro
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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 searching for a scenic stroll, the Seven Hanging Valleys Path guarantees an unforgettable expertise.

So pack your digicam, lace up your mountaineering boots, and prepare to discover considered one of Portugal’s most lovely coastal trails!

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