Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: must-do hike in the Algarve
There are some regular hikes. Plain views, simple routes, boring experiences.
Then there’s Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in the Algarve. This hike is an immersive journey through some of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes.
You’re walking along jagged cliffs, with the Atlantic crashing below, looking inside hidden beaches and sea caves.
But navigating the trail on your own can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to Algarve.
That’s why we have created this short, straightforward guide of only the important things about the Seven Hanging Valleys trail to make your journey easier.
General info
- Start point: Praia da Marinha or Praia do Vale Centeanes.
- End point: Praia da Marinha (or vice versa).
- Duration: Around 2-3 hours (one way).
- Length: 7.5 km.
- Elevation gain: Approximately 210 m (690 ft).
- Trail difficulty: Moderate difficulty, with some rocky and steep areas.
Did you know?
Where to start the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?
You can begin the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail at either Praia da Marinha or Praia do Vale Centeanes, depending on your preference.
Both are fantastic points. But we highly recommend starting your hike at Praia do Vale Centeanes if you want to save the most spectacular views for last, as Praia da Marinha is known for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations.
Plus, this route gradually builds up to the stunning sights, making the hike even more rewarding as you approach the end.
7 Hanging Valleys Trail route overview
From Praia do Vale Centeanes to Alfanzina Lighthouse
his first stretch is a perfect introduction to the Algarve’s coastline. The 1 km route will take you about 10-20 minutes to reach. Rugged, rocky paths, towering limestone cliffs, and unspoiled Atlantic will keep you company along the way and will lead you to Alfanzina Lighthouse.
And to help you guide along the way, there are small wooden signposts. The pillars are marked with red and yellow stripes which help you stay on track as you explore the trail.
From Alfanzina Lighthouse to Praia do Carvalho
A 1.5 km route offers you stunning ocean views, breathtaking cliffs, and opportunities for photography. At the end, you’ll reach the quiet Praia do Carvalho, which is a peaceful spot, perfect for a mini break.
From Praia do Carvalho to Praia do Benagil
This is a less crowded section, of about 1.5 km that brings you to one of the Algarve’s most famous sights: the Benagil Cave. Since it’s a secluded beach, you can’t really enter from the trail. So, either you can take a peek into this natural wonder from the cliffside or arrange a boat or paddleboard.
From Praia do Benagil to Praia da Marinha
This final 2 km stretch is, as we like to call it, a sight for sore eyes, with natural arches, cliffs, and the famous Praia da Marinha.
Along the way, keep an eye out for a special viewpoint where two arches come together to form a heart shape —a popular spot for photos. To capture the heart-shaped rocks at their best, it’s ideal to visit early in the morning or during late afternoon light.
Praia da Marinha is busy during summer due to its popularity among tourists. It’s also consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Europe. So you already know that visiting this beach is a must!
Want more beach content? We have covered all the beaches in the Algarve.
Returning options
Once you reach Praia da Marinha, you have two options for getting back. You can either walk the same route back to your starting point or, if you’d prefer a quicker return, take an Uber from Praia da Marinha, to where you started your hike.
Both options are super flexible but keep in mind that the return hike may take just as long (2-3 hours), so if you’re tired, Uber might be the more convenient choice.
Short, alternative routes
Now if you want the experience of hiking this trail in its full glory without having to commit to the complete route of Seven Hanging Valleys, we also have some shorter alternatives for you.
You can begin at Alfanzina Lighthouse, Praia do Carvalho, or Praia do Benagil, or from Praia da Marinha to Praia do Benagil, you name it. Each of these locations allows you to explore portions of the trail without having to hike the entire 7.5 km route.
Best time to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
The best time to hike the trail is in either spring (March to June) or autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is usually mild, and flowers are blooming which makes it perfect for outdoor activities.
Winter can be pleasant as well but sometimes it can be rainy or windy, in which case, check the weather forecast before you head out.
In terms of time of the day, early morning or late afternoon is ideal, especially in the summer, as midday temperatures can get quite hot. Also, consider hiking at sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the views.
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