Hiking The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail – Everything You Need to Know!

Where is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail & What to Expect

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is located in the western Algarve, in the municipality of Lagoa. The nearest towns are Carvoeiro, Ferragudo, and Armação de Pêra.

Starting at the charming Marinha Beach, the cliffside trail leads you on a winding path with views of some of the most breathtaking vistas in Portugal. All along the way, the trail is well-marked with red and yellow stripes on rocks, posts, or signs, depending on what’s available.

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail GPX & Details

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail route is rocky and entirely cliffside.

It’s not a loop but a one-way track. So when you arrive at the end of the trail at Praia de Vale de Centeanes, you’ll either have to walk back down the same track to where you parked, take a bus or a taxi/Uber (I’ll provide more details about the options to get back further down).

Seven Hanging Valleys Hike

Easy

3h (one way)    6km / 3.7 miles

210m / 688ft    228m / 748ft

Download GPX

 
Hike distance: The distance of the hike is 6 km/3.7 miles one way or 11.9km/7.4 miles including the return trip.

Hike itinerary: Praia da Marinha – Praia de Benagil – Alfanzina Lighthouse – Praia do Carvalho – Praia de Vale Centianes

Hike duration: If you simply walk down the hike, it will take you about 3 hours. Count 6 hours if you go back to the starting point. In any case, I recommend planning more time (about 1 hour or 2 extra time) to make sure you have enough time if you want to swim in the beaches and coves you’ll encounter on the way.

Hike elevation: The hike is mostly flat, with slight elevations from time to time, but nothing bad.

Hike difficulty: This hike is good exercise but suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. But if you choose to complete it as a round trip, it becomes a long trek making it moderately challenging. The route is rocky so be sure to wear proper hiking shoes to avoid getting hurt. Also, protect yourself from the sun as the hike is entirely exposed.

Tip: If you plan to do this hike in the summer, make sure to do it in the early morning or late afternoon to get a parking spot and most importantly avoid unbearable temperatures that can be dangerous.

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Map

If you’re not familiar with GPX, you can still follow a regular map. To get the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail map, simply click on the image below to open it on Google Maps. Then click on the “star” icon to save it to your own maps for free.

Where to Start the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail?

There are 2 possible starting points for this hike: either Praia da Marinha or Praia do Vale de Centeanes.

The most used trailhead is Praia da Marinha though. There is a free parking lot and starting from there, you’ll be able to follow the well-marked path along the coastline with the sun at your back for most of the way.

You can access the trail from the Praia da Marinha parking lot and follow the well-marked path along the coastline to enjoy its stunning views and unique geological features.

Praia da Marinha

How to Get to the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?

There are several options available to you to reach the hike starting point, which is Praia da Marinha.

🚗 By car or taxi: this is the easiest option to get to the hike trailhead. Write “Parque de estacionamento” on your GPS to get to Praia da Marinha parking lot. The parking lot is connected to the pedestrian area so you’ll have no problem spotting the trail entrance, and there’s also a picnic area.

Note that the parking lot is small, so it gets crowded in no time, especially in the peak season. So the earlier you come the better.

By taxi, it’s even more convenient. Local drivers know very well the Seven Hanging Valleys walk so you’ll have no trouble reaching the trail entrance.

🚌 By public transportation: Hopefully, the bus network in the area is well developed and works very well. Depending on your departing town, you’ll take different lines:

• From Carvoeiro – 25 minutes: take bus line 52 from Carvoeiro Centro station in direction to ‘ZooMarine’ and stop at Praia da Marinha station.
• From Portimão – 50 minutes: take bus line 107 from Portimão Guanaré station to Lagoa Terminal Rodoviário station; then take bus line 77 in direction to ‘Praia da Marinha – Benagil – Lagoa’ and stop at Praia da Marinha station.
• From Albufeira – 1 hour 20 minutes: take bus line 51 from Albufeira station in direction to ‘Lagos Terminal Rodoviário’ station to Porches Gasolineira; then take bus line 52 in direction to ‘Alvor” and stop at Praia da Marinha station.
• From Lagos – 1 hour 40 minutes: take bus line 51 from Lagos Terminal Rodoviário station to Porches Gasolineira; then take bus line 52 in direction to ‘Alvor” and stop at Praia da Marinha station.

Using the public transportation in the Algarve isn’t the most reliable option, especially on the off-season. Expect delays or even cancellations. For example, line 52 runs every 2 hours from 1st of June to 31st October.

If you still want to use the bus, make sure to check the timetables before you set off.

🗺 With a local tour: If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can join organized tours that include transportation from your home base town to the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.

These tours are particularly interesting if you’re not staying close to the hike as they take care of all the logistics for you and often provide guided hiking experiences with sometimes extra visits. Here are the best-rated ones:

• From Olhão: Seven Hanging Valleys Guided Hiking Day Trip: this is the perfect option if you’re staying in Olhão as transfers are included, along with food tastings.
• From Albufeira: Tuk-Tuk Tour to Benagil Caves: discovering the coast by tuk-tuk is a unique experience, perfect for those who don’t have too much time to allocate to the hike.
• Faro: Benagil Cave Bodyboard Tour with Beach & Trail Visit: this adventure will take you to the trail from Faro, with a deeper exploration of the famous Benagil Cave.

But while there is definite convenience to be found in an organized tour, you should know there’s significantly less freedom to explore on your own and at your own pace.

Where to Stay Near the Seven Hanging Valleys Hiking Trail

The rugged rocky coast against the deep blue sea is very calming everywhere in the area, so you’ll be happy just about anywhere you choose to stay in the Algarve.

But here are the best towns and accommodations to stay near the hike, so you don’t have to drive too far after your adventure.
 

1. Carvoeiro

Carvoeiro is your best option nearest Praia da Marinha. This charming town has many accommodations such as hotels and guesthouses, as well as a variety of cafes and restaurants. Here are the best accommodations to stay in Carvoeiro:

• ✅ Mid-Budget Hotel – Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza: located right on the beachfront, this place stands out for its stunning panoramic views.
• ✨ Best Luxury – Tivoli Carvoeiro: the swimming pool of this 5-star hotel is cliffside in the middle of the iconic red rock formations of the Algarve.

2. Lagos

Lagos is further away from the trailhead, but many people choose to stay here because it’s a larger town and has many tourist options, as well as a variety of beautiful beaches and amazing caves. It’s a smart starting point for excursions and day trips around the Algarve. Here are the best accommodations to stay in Lagos:

• ✅ Mid-Budget Hotel – B&B Porto de Mos G&B AL: this B&B has everything of a great hotel, including beach views, room service, and a gym. And kudos to the delicious breakfast!
• ✨ Best Luxury – Lagos Atlantic Hotel: this 4-star hotel is located 500 meters from the beach and has an outstanding rate of 9.2!

Need more recommendations? Check out this dedicated guide of the very best hotels in Algarve for a dreamy stay.

What to See on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

Below are the best highlights and geological features you’ll see on the trail starting from Praia da Marinha.

As said above, the trail can also be done in the opposite direction, but the route starting from Praia da Marinha is the best in terms of facilities and sun exposure.

1. Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is one of the most picturesque beaches in Portugal. Its golden sands, intricate rock formations, and clear turquoise waters set the tone for the unforgettable adventure ahead of you.

View at the trail start close to Praia da Marinha

The trail itself does not go down to the beach, however. Obviously, you must do so anyway, either before your hike or afterwards. If you go before you begin, it sets the appropriate tone for the journey ahead. Take the stairs to go down to the beach and begin your hike to the right of the stairs when you are ready.

2. Rock formations & hidden beaches

The landscape is adorned with natural arches, sinkholes, sea stacks, and grottoes sculpted by centuries of ocean waves. You can explore these geological wonders but do so with caution and at your own risk. The sinkholes have barriers surrounding them for your own safety.

View over Praia do Barranquinho

The trail winds its way through hidden coves and secluded beaches. Praia do Barranquinho and Praia do Vale Centeanes are just a couple of the hidden gems that await discovery along this route.

You’ll find yourself veering off trail constantly to get a better look at the beaches and grottos and that’s a great thing. Just be sure to return to the original path to continue your journey.

3. Praia do Cao Raivoso

The second beach you’ll come across, Praia do Cao Raivoso, is not accessible to hikers. It’s a charming and secluded beach only for those with watercraft, so you may still see people down there anyway.

Praia do Cao Raivoso

4. Benagil Beach

As you come to the next beach, Benagil Beach, you’ll veer off the downhill dirt path to the road leading to the O Algar restaurant. There are a few other restaurants at the beach as well. You can take the same road all the way down to the beach.

The distance between Benagil Beach and the Benagil Cave may seem short, but the truth is that the sea is quite treacherous due to strong underwater currents. Every year, tourists tragically lose their lives attempting to swim to the cave. So please, don’t take unnecessary risks and prefer renting a kayak or SUP right on the beach for a safer and more enjoyable experience.

5. Praia do Carvalho

At the opposite end, west, of the beach you’ll see stairs leading up the cliffside to return to the trail and soon after, Praia do Carvalho. A darling little beach encircled by limestone cliffs that you can get to by hiking down through a relatively short cave tunnel.

6. Alfanzina Lighthouse

After just over 3 miles, you’ll see the charming Alfanzina Lighthouse built in 1920. You can take a tour of this lighthouse in the summer, or simply enjoy it from a distance. Perhaps with a lovely picnic lunch. There’s also an extremely large sinkhole near the lighthouse.

Tip: Don’t forget to look down as you walk as well. The trail has a variety of interesting fossils and shells embedded in it that are easily missed if you’re always looking out to the ocean.

7. Diverse Flora and Fauna

The 7 Hanging Valleys hike is not only a treat for the eyes but also a haven for plant and animal life. You may see a variety of bird species soaring overhead, including peregrine falcons, gulls, and cormorants that are endemic to Portugal.

Keep an eye out for the delightful wildflowers that dot the landscape too, adding splashes of color to the otherwise rugged terrain. In the spring and early summer, the hillsides come alive with the hues of native blooms.

8. Praia do Vale de Centianes in Carvoeiro

The trail ends or turns around at yet another beautiful beach, Praia do Vale de Centianes in Carvoeiro.

lowfields / CC BY

At this point, you can either turn around and see everything from the opposite perspective or you can take an Uber back to your starting point, depending on how much energy you have left and also of course, the weather.

What to Pack for this Hike + Safety Tips

Before setting out for Algarve hiking, take the time to research the trail conditions, weather forecast, and any potential restrictions.

• Make sure to have the hike map with you: download the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail map from the All Trails app.
• Wear good shoes: sturdy walking shoes with good traction and appropriate clothing are essential to do this hike comfortably
• Sun protection: make sure to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. And most importantly, bring sunscreen and apply it every 1-2 hours to avoid sunburns. The temperature and sun there is no joke, so be careful.
• Pack water & snacks: don’t forget to pack plenty of water and healthy snacks to stay hydrated and energized. While there are some places to stop for food along the way, opening hours vary depending on the season. Odds are in your favor to encounter a lemonade or beer cart at one of the beaches during the summer season, but they’re not 100% guaranteed. Always bring plenty of food and water of your own, just in case.
• Quick dry towel: if you plan to spend any time in the water, a quick dry towel will be handy. Along the way, you’ll come across wonderful beaches that will definitely call for you.
• Bring your best camera: the Algarve is a photographer’s dream in any season, you’ll see amazing landscapes to shoot along the way.
• Respect the environment: pack out all trash, respect wildlife, stay on the marked trail, and obey any signs or regulations to ensure your safety and protect fragile ecosystems. The cliffs can be steep and unforgiving, so exercise caution and avoid risky behaviors.
• Keep away from cliff edges: The cliffs are steep and dangerous, so don’t walk on the edge. The rock is unsafe and there’s a lot of erosion, so it’s easy to slip if you step on fragile parts. Always stay on the trail, at a safe distance from the edges.

New to hiking? Check out this hiking gear list to help you pack the essential items and make sure you’re safe on your adventure. 

What to do Next?

While the 7 Hanging Valleys walk itself is a captivating and rewarding hiking experience, the surrounding area of the Algarve region in Portugal offers numerous additional activities and attractions to explore.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural exploration, or simply a chance to bask in the beauty of nature, the Algarve has something for everyone.

• Explore Lagos: The vibrant coastal town of Lagos is a short drive from the trailhead and offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment making it one of Portugal’s best towns. Wander through charming streets lined with colorful buildings, visit historic sites such as the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the local markets and cafes.
• Boat Tours & Dolphin Watching: Take advantage of the Algarve’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean by embarking on a boat tour or dolphin-watching excursion. Cruising along the coastline allows you to view the rugged limestone cliffs from a different perspective and increases your chances of encountering playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
• Visit Benagil Cave: The Benagil Sea Cave, also known as the Algar de Benagil, is a stunning famous Portuguese landmark located near the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. You can only explore this iconic cave by joining a guided boat tour or renting a kayak.
• Enjoy water sports: For adventure enthusiasts, the Algarve coastline offers a range of water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. Kayaking along the length of the coast you just walked across is one of the sweetest ways to enhance your hike.
• Fishing Villages and Markets: Immerse yourself in local life by exploring traditional fishing villages such as Carvoeiro or Ferragudo. These charming communities offer glimpses into authentic Portuguese culture and may even have local markets where you can shop for fresh produce and other goods.

Carvoeiro

FAQ About the Seven Hanging Valleys

How long does it take to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?

The Algarve Seven Hanging Valleys Trail typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to hike, covering approximately 3.7 to 5 miles one way. The duration may vary based on your hiking pace, stops for sightseeing, and trail conditions.

Is the Seven Hanging Valleys Route well marked?

Yes, the trail is marked from end to end by yellow and red stripes painted on wooden posts or rocks, and it’s easy to follow the trail in either direction.

The route is simple, following the coastline from start to finish. So even if you miss a sign, just keep walking along the cliffs.

Is the Seven Hanging Valleys Walk suitable for children?

Yes, the hike is technically suitable for kids but mainly for those who are used to walking long distances, given that the heat and sun can be quite draining (remember there’s almost no shadow on the way).

That being said, it’s crucial to be extra cautious with younger kids because the trail runs along the cliff’s edge without any barriers. So, it’s fair to say this hike is better suited for slightly older, more self-reliant youngsters.

In any case, you are the best judge of what you can and cannot do with your children. So trust yourself, and avoid making a risky choice when kids are involved.

When is the best time to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?

The best time to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the landscape is in full bloom. Avoid hiking during the peak summer months to escape the heat and crowds.

As for the best time of day to do this hike, it’s definitely in the morning. I recommend that you start walking at 8 am at the latest, especially in summer. Depending on how many stops you make along the way, you’ll reach the other end between 11 am and 12 pm, the ideal time for a snack or lunch stop before heading back.

For those hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys in winter, it’s possible to start later and still have a pleasant experience, as the temperatures are way more appropriate.

Where is the best part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?

The most awe-inspiring part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is often considered to be the section closer to Praia da Marinha. This stretch has remarkable cliffs, sea arches, and the rugged beauty of the Algarve coast.

How to get back after hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?

If you don’t have time to walk back and forth to your car, you can take an Uber. It’s cheap and fast: a normal Uber (up to 4 people) to Praia da Marinha costs between 5 and 6 euros, and you’d wait about 5-15 minutes depending on the season.

In high season, you can also take a bus, but this is risky as it doesn’t run frequently. I don’t recommend this option if you don’t have time.

What are hanging valleys?

The Algarve region is characterized by a rugged coastline, limestone formations, sea caves, and cliffs. The formation of these features can be attributed to a combination of factors, including tectonic activity, erosion by wind and water, and the dissolution of limestone by acidic rainwater.

The Algarve is underlain by limestone, a type of rock that is susceptible to erosion by slightly acidic rainwater. Over time, the chemical erosion of limestone can lead to the formation of sinkholes, underground caves, and other karst features. While not the same as glacial hanging valleys, these karst features can result in dramatic landscape variations and unique formations.

Final Thoughts on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

Hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Portugal is a journey for all your senses. Each step is filled with the scent of saltwater carried by the breeze, the sound of crashing waves against the golden cliffs, and the sight of unbelievable landscapes.

From the dramatic cliffs and hidden coves to the diverse flora and fauna that call this region home, every step along this trail is an opportunity to appreciate nature’s beauty.

Visit Algarve

Find below more Algarve content to help you make the best of your trip:

Gems not to miss in the Algarve:

• The 36 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Algarve
• Best Day Trips from Lagos
• Complete Guide to Benagil Cave
• Explore Albandeira Beach
• Discover Praia do Camilo
• Ponta da Piedade Rock Formation

And if you’re wondering where to stay in the Algarve, here are a few other pieces to choose the right accommodation:

• The Best Area to Stay in the Algarve
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• Where to Stay in the Algarve with a Baby
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