Seven Hanging Valleys Trail | Lagoa

Stunning views. Stunning coves. Stunning geology. Stunning sunsets. You shouldn’t miss the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail – and yes, this gorgeous hike easily excites as it guides you through some of the Algarve’s most striking natural gems.

What Can You See on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?

[Note: To get straight to the hiking advice, skip this section.]

No wonder that European Best Destinations elected this scenic route as one of the very best hikes in Europe. The charismatic trek runs from Praia da Marinha in the east to Praia de Vale Centeanes in the west.

Among others, it offers a string of notable stops at the Alfanzina lighthouse, and Benagil and Carvalho beaches (please see the map below). You will walk along the top of coastal cliffs featuring sculpted shapes and beautiful ochre and yellow hues, like the ones surrounding Carvalho Beach:

Strikingly, the rock layers’ colours change throughout the day as the sunlight paints them in shades ranging from bright orange to darkened copper. Crowning the cliffs near Praia da Marinha, dense Juniper and Mastic undergrowth provides shelter to a variety of animals, including Rabbits, Foxes, Mongooses, Warblers, Owls, and several species of butterflies. This greenery bursts into flower in early spring, creating an especially perfumed and colourful ambience.

Many consider Praia da Marinha one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. The sweeping view over this beach reveals an array of outstanding landforms such as grottoes, stony arches, natural bridges, and precarious sea stacks where seabirds nest and rest.

At the bottom of the cliffs, the shallow waters over the sand and the sprinkling of rocks form a contrasting palette of azure and yellow, attracting sea life and a few happy snorkelers. Seagulls and cormorants crisscross the blue atmosphere above before landing accurately on the vertical rocky walls.

This meandering hike then uncovers a string of hidden surprises: deep gorges, secluded coves, forested patches, and huge sinkholes where you can hear the ocean waves reverberating down below.

At Benagil, visitors can jump aboard one of the skiffs offering trips to these spectacular sinkholes and sea caves. Such trips usually make several stopovers, including at the vast, light-filled dome of the famous Benagil Cave.

Contemplating sinkholes as natural skylights within a sea-sculpted cathedral truly offers a rare and gratifying experience. Skiffs depart from most major beaches between Lagos and Praia da Marinha.

Why the Name ‘Seven Hanging Valleys’?

For millennia, winds and waves have relentlessly sculpted the rock faces that arc along these shores. Meanwhile, running at right angles to the coast, seven streams etched narrow, profound valleys down through the cliffs. This dual, ceaseless erosion is what ultimately chiseled out the ‘hanging valleys’.

Indeed, the steep valleys now ‘hang’ because the calcareous coastline has receded quite abruptly in the past. The result? The watercourses’ mouths are not down on the beach, but perched higher on the cliffs.

Before Centeanes Beach, a final valley invites visitors to rest on a wooden belvedere and take in the blissful scenery. Along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, the turquoise ocean conspired with the golden cliffs to create the quintessential Algarvian seascape – and one of the most memorable walks along the sun-kissed coastline. Enjoy!

Unveiling the Seven Hanging Valleys | Your Definitive Hiking Guide

This guide distills everything you need to know to embark upon the charismatic Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, from essential preparations to its most breathtaking highlights. Here’s practical, actionable advice.

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Map

Getting There and Back | Trailheads and Access Points

The trail hugs the stunning coastline of the Southern Algarve, nestled between the towns of Carvoeiro and Albufeira (though significantly closer to Carvoeiro). The official route stretches between Praia da Marinha to the East and Praia de Vale Centeanes to the West.

Should you prefer to tackle the Seven Hanging Valleys in shorter stages, you can also access the trail at Benagil, Praia do Carvalho, or near the Alfanzina Lighthouse (refer to the map on this page for precise locations).

Praia da Marinha (Eastern Terminus): This world-renowned beach showcases unique rock formations, including the iconic ‘M-rock’, or ‘Elephant Rock’ (a double sea arch). Its large car park fills rapidly – aim to arrive by 9 AM, or 8 AM during peak season. A beach bar operates here during high season. The trail commences to the west (to your right, when facing the ocean) from the car park/picnic area.

Praia de Vale Centeanes (Western Terminus): A large, picturesque beach conveniently located near Carvoeiro. Parking here is more limited. A beach restaurant welcomes visitors during peak season.

From Carvoeiro: For an enhanced experience, consider starting or finishing your adventure in Carvoeiro. This allows you to incorporate the beautiful Carvoeiro Boardwalk and the intriguing rock formations of Algar Seco, adding only about 2 km (just over a mile) or slightly more to your one-way trek. The next image below shows Algar Seco.

Hike Out-and-Back: The most straightforward solution for those with ample time and energy is to simply retrace their steps. This doubles the distance to approximately 12 kilometers (around 7 miles) and the hiking time to 4-6 hours. While this allows for experiencing the views from a different perspective, many hikers find that the richness of the scenery is sufficiently absorbed in a one-way trek.

Logistics | Navigating To and From the Trail

By Car: This offers the most flexibility. Use your GPS to navigate to ‘Praia da Marinha’ or ‘Praia de Vale Centeanes’. If your group has two cars and enough seats, you can arrange a car shuttle: leave one vehicle at your intended finishing point, enabling a comfortable return to your starting spot without having to hike back.

Public Transport (Vamus Algarve Buses): This is a viable option but requires careful planning via vamusalgarve.pt. Note that some routes operate seasonally. From major Algarvian towns, target Lagoa as your initial destination; from there, you can catch a connecting bus or taxi to Praia da Marinha.

Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber/Bolt): These provide convenient and widely available transport. Uber/Bolt often prove more budget-friendly than traditional taxis. You can request a ride at the end of your one-way hike to avoid the return trek. If you opt for a conventional taxi, always confirm an estimated fare with the driver beforehand.

Via Tour Operators and Hiking Guides: You can readily find guided tours online through platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide. Many tours depart from major hubs such as Faro or Portimão. These offer supreme convenience as they manage all transport logistics. Furthermore, guides enrich your hike by contextualizing the stunning vistas and can offer valuable assistance to those with mobility challenges.

Distances by Road to the Trailhead from Key Algarvian Locations

From Faro/Faro Airport: 59 km / 37 mi
From Vilamoura: 44 km / 27 mi
From Albufeira: 28 km / 17.4 mi
From Lagoa: 8 km / 4.8 mi
From Carvoeiro: 8 km / 4.8 mi
From Portimão: 18 km / 11 mi
From Lagos: 42 km / 26 mi

When to Conquer the Seven Hanging Valleys

Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November): These shoulder seasons offer the best Seven Hanging Valleys experience. Temperatures remain pleasantly mild, crowds thin out, and spring, in particular, bestows a riot of colour upon the coastal flora.

Summer (June-August): Expect heat and significant foot traffic. If you plan your visit during these months, aim for an early start—by 8 AM or even sooner—to beat the midday sun and the peak crowds.

Winter (December-February): Winter always presents a tranquil hiking opportunity in the Algarve. You’ll encounter fewer people and enjoy cooler, crisp air. While there’s a chance of rain (though increasingly uncommon in recent years), always check the forecast and the seasonal opening hours of any cafés or restaurants along the route. If possible, avoid hiking on excessively windy or foggy days.

Optimal Time of Day: Embark on your hike very early in the morning for the freshest conditions. However, know this: at sunset, this coastal path radiates an enchanting, almost ethereal light that will bewitch your senses.

Recommended Direction: We strongly advise hiking from East to West (towards Vale Centeanes, the beach shown below). This orientation keeps the sun at your back, enhancing your views and photographic opportunities. Furthermore, Praia da Marinha boasts a more spacious car park than its western counterpart.

Gearing Up for Comfort and Safety | Your Essential Checklist

Footwear: Robust hiking shoes or high-quality trainers with excellent grip are really non-negotiable. The terrain is not forgiving. Also, the steep sections can become notably slick after a rainfall. Flip-flops? Absolutely not!

Hydration: Carry a minimum of 1.5 liters of water per person; but increase this quota significantly in warmer weather.

Sun Protection: Much of the trail offers little shade, with minimal tree cover. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protection sunglasses.

Apparel: Opt for lightweight, breathable, layered clothing. A waterproof jacket is a wise addition during the cooler months.

Trail Snacks: Pack sustaining options like fruit, energy bars, and trail mix.

Navigation & Communication: Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged (good mobile coverage exists along most of the route). An offline map or a GPS app serves as a valuable backup.

Optional but Recommended: Consider bringing hiking poles (for stability on uneven ground), swimwear and a towel (for those inviting beaches and coves!), a dedicated camera, binoculars (for wildlife and distant features, like the Leixão do Ladrão/’Eyes of the Devil’ rock depicted below), toilet paper, and a rubbish bag (always practice Leave No Trace principles!).

Trail Safety and Environmental Stewardship

Cliff Edges and Fenced Areas: Maintain a SAFE DISTANCE from cliff edges at all times. Closely supervise children and pets. Respect all warning signs and NEVER cross safety fences. Cliff edges are inherently brittle and can give way spontaneously or underfoot. Incidents have occurred. Be aware that you may also face hefty fines for breaching these safety regulations.

Footing and Terrain: Expect a dynamic underfoot experience: varied dirt paths, frequent rocky sections, loose stones, and multiple steep (but thankfully short) ascents and descents. This trail is not suitable for strollers/pushchairs. Children are welcome, though.

Emergency: For any serious situation, dial 112. Ensure your phone is fully charged before you set off.

Weather: Prudence dictates avoiding hiking in extreme heat, during thunderstorms, in high winds, or on days with dense fog. And always stay hydrated.

Leave No Trace: Commit to packing out ALL your rubbish. Stay on marked trails to protect fragile vegetation. Leave nature precisely as you find it. Respect wildlife by observing from a distance.

Trail Suitability and Main Amenities

Amenities: Public restrooms are available at the main beaches: Praia da Marinha, Praia de Benagil, and Praia de Vale Centeanes. Along the route, you’ll find some strategically placed benches and pleasant picnic spots, notably near Alfanzina Lighthouse (picture above) and at Praia da Marinha.

Trail Suitability: Families with young children might prefer to tackle shorter, more manageable sections (for instance, the Praia da Marinha to Benagil stretch is a pleasant walk of about 1 hour). Individuals with reduced mobility should exercise caution; engaging professional guides and using hiking poles can significantly enhance safety and enjoyment.

Crowds: The trail possesses a remarkable capacity to absorb many people without feeling overly congested (though this is, of course, a subjective consideration). It offers stunning, concentrated beauty but it is not a remote wilderness experience akin to some sections along the Western Algarve’s Vicentine Coast like the Amado or Amoreira Trails; these are distinctly different experiences and landscapes. Furthermore, it’s not practically feasible to connect the Vicentine Coast trails – which generally culminate near Lagos – with the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.

The Trail at a Glance | Your Adventure in Numbers

Estimated Duration: Budget a minimum of 2-3 hours for a one-way trek. However, wise hikers allow ample time for capturing photographs, lingering on accessible beaches, taking a refreshing dip, perhaps renting a kayak, or enjoying trailside sustenance. A journey along this trail can easily blossom into a full-day adventure.

Trail Difficulty: We generally rate this trail as ‘Easy’ to ‘Moderate’. The ‘Moderate’ designation stems from the rocky, uneven terrain, often strewn with loose stones underfoot. You’ll also navigate several short but steep ascents and descents. Hikers with mobility concerns may benefit from the steadying presence of an experienced hiking guide.

Elevation Gain: Expect an undulating path. The cumulative positive elevation gain tallies approximately 360-370 meters (around 1200 feet) for the one-way journey. The trail’s highest point reaches approximately 45 meters (150 feet) above sea level. Its max slope is 74%, whereas the average slope is 11%. Here’s the trail’s topographic profile (one way, from east to west):

Seven Hanging Valleys | East to West Trail Highlights

Trail Signage: The trail is generally well-marked with distinctive yellow and red painted stripes on posts or rocks (see how to decode the markings). Even if you momentarily lose the path, keep the coastline in sight, and you’ll naturally stay on course.

Praia da Marinha and the Initial Cliffs: Your adventure begins with truly breathtaking views over Marinha’s famed rock formations, including the whimsical ‘Elephant Rock’. Many seasoned hikers consider this the most scenically rewarding section of the entire trail.

Towards the Benagil Cave Viewpoint: The path leads you to a large, fenced-off sea cave sinkhole (an ‘algar’) situated directly above the world-famous Benagil Cave. Be aware that the clifftop views down into Benagil Cave is limited and somewhat obscured due to essential safety fencing and the viewing distance. You cannot access the cave directly from this trail. En route, you will pass the stunning Praia da Corredoura (only accessible by sea, through kayaks, for instance) and Praia da Mesquita (accessible from Praia da Marinha at low tide).

Praia de Benagil: A short, rewarding descent brings you to this charming fishing cove, complete with welcoming cafés and restrooms. Here, you can rent kayaks, SUPs, or book boat tours. However, especially during the bustling summer months, book these aquatic adventures well in advance. This beach tends to teem with beachgoers during peak season. From Benagil onwards, you’ll typically encounter fewer fellow hikers on the trail.

Navigation Note: To continue westwards from Praia de Benagil, look for a set of stairs ascending the cliff to your right (when facing the sea). Alternatively, follow signs for the ‘Casa Lamy’ restaurant.

Praia do Carvalho: Discover this secluded cove, uniquely accessed via a hand-carved tunnel through the cliff face – a memorable threshold to a hidden gem. Beach facilities here are minimal or non-existent, depending on the season.

Alfanzina Lighthouse and Ladrão Sea Stack: Keep an eye out for the distinctive, red-painted Alfanzina Lighthouse and the stark, almost lunar limestone monolith of the Leixão do Ladrão sea stack. A pleasant picnic area is located nearby. Take a moment to observe the diverse seabirds and the fascinating geological formations of the huge, foreboding sea stack.

Praia de Vale Centeanes: Your journey culminates at this delightful beach, which features a restaurant (operating in peak season) and other support facilities, offering a perfect spot to relax and reflect on your accomplishment.

Other Activities to Enjoy Along the Way

Besides renting a kayak or SUP (in Benagil or Carvoeiro, for instance), there’s a lot more to do along the trail if you wish to stop and take in the scenery. This includes obvious activities such as swimming and birdwatching, but also snorkeling if the sea is calm and the water is not murky.

Snorkeling: For those who venture into the crystalline waters, snorkeling around the rocks near beaches like Praia da Marinha can reveal a vibrant array of local sea life. Be aware that the water in this part of the Algarve is not the warmest (far from it…). Consider renting a wetsuit if the Atlantic feels a little too bracing for your comfort.

Photography and Videos: The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is exceptionally photogenic throughout its entire length. However, some standout locations for capturing stunning images include the viewpoints overlooking Praia da Marinha (especially its famous arches and sea stacks), the elevated perspectives above Praia da Corredoura, the dramatic approach to Praia do Carvalho with its tunnel entrance, and the sweeping views incorporating the Alfanzina Lighthouse against the coastal backdrop. The soft, golden light of early morning or late afternoon/sunset can provide particularly magical photographic conditions.

The Natural Mosaic | Geology, Flora, and Fauna

Geology: The trail masterfully showcases a stunning karst landscape, sculpted over millennia from soluble limestone. The ‘hanging valleys’ themselves are ancient riverbeds, left dramatically perched high above the current sea level as the surrounding coastline relentlessly eroded. Here, you will encounter geological formations that are truly scarce on a global scale.

Flora: Immerse yourself in coastal scrubland (often termed ‘garrigue’), where you’ll discover hardy species such as Juniper, Kermes Oak, Aleppo Pine (particularly near the Alfanzina Lighthouse), Mastic trees, and the resilient Dwarf Fan Palm (the only palm native to Europe, shown below on the left). This low-growing, hardy vegetation becomes aromatic and colourful in the spring months when many species burst into bloom.

Fauna: Keep your eyes peeled for seabirds like Yellow-Legged Gulls and agile passerines such as the Sardinian and Dartford Warblers (below, on the right). While Rabbits, Foxes, and the elusive Mongoose are shy creatures – typically only appearing at dusk or during the quiet hours of the night – little lizards and butterflies are common and delightful sights. With a bit of luck, you might even spot dolphins frolicking offshore! But setting realistic expectations is important; while diverse wildlife is present, observing it often requires patience, quiet observation, and a dash of fortune.

Expand Your Adventure | Experiencing Benagil Cave from the Water

To truly embrace the awe-inspiring majesty of Benagil Cave, you must approach it from the ocean. Numerous boat tours depart from Praia de Benagil itself, as well as from Armação de Pêra, Portimão, Carvoeiro, and many other coastal locations.

Bookings: We highly advise booking your boat trip, kayak, or SUP rental in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. All water-based activities are subject to prevailing sea conditions; if the sea is rough, equipment rental and some boat tours may be unavailable.

Final Thoughts | Your Unforgettable Algarvian Hike

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is far more than a mere hike; it’s an intimate encounter with the raw, telluric power and the intricate artistry of nature. Plan meticulously, pack smart, treat the environment with the deep respect it deserves, and always prioritize your safety.

But most importantly, allow yourself to be utterly captivated by the magnificient golden cliffs that stand sentinel over the coast, by the enchanting hidden coves that whisper romantic tales of seclusion, and by the endless, mesmerizing shimmer of the blue Atlantic. Embrace the journey, and savour every precious moment of this incredible Algarvian landscape. Have fun and all the very best!