Hiking The Seven Hanging Valleys: A Masterpiece of the Algarve Coast

Katie Durie
4 days ago
3 min read

seven Hanging Valleys. Rocky cliffs with green vegetation overlook clear blue ocean under a cloudy sky. Eroded yellow rock formations rise from the water.

Stretching along the golden limestone cliffs of Lagoa, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos) is arguably the most breathtaking coastal hike in Europe. This 12 km round-trip route connects the world-famous Praia da Marinha to Praia do Vale de Centeanes, offering stunning views of dramatic sea stacks, turquoise arches, and the legendary Benagil Cave.

Whether you're visiting in the crisp winter air or the vibrant heat of summer, here is everything you need to know to master the cliffs.

Timing Your Trek: Winter vs. Summer

Why Winter is the "Local’s Secret"

While the crowds vanish after October, the beauty of the trail only grows.

The Climate: Winter temperatures usually hover around 15°C – 18°C. It’s cool enough to hike the full 12 km comfortably, yet sunny enough for vibrant photos.
The Solitude: You can enjoy the silence of the Atlantic without dodging selfie sticks at the major viewpoints.
The Greenery: After the autumn rains, the clifftops turn a lush, vibrant green, creating a stunning contrast against the orange rocks.

Summer Survival Tips

The 7:00 AM Rule: Start at sunrise. By 11:00 AM, the limestone reflects the heat like an oven.
Hydration: There are almost no water points on the path. Pack at least 2L of water per person.
Protection: The trail is fully exposed. A wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable.

The Trailhead: Parking & Finding Your Way

Starting at Praia da Marinha: Parking is notoriously difficult in peak season. The main gravel lot is free but small; if it’s full, police often close the access road 1 km away. Arrive before 9:00 AM to secure a spot during the summer.

Praia da Marinha, a sunny beach with golden cliffs and turquoise water. Waves gently lap the shore, creating a serene, peaceful atmosphere. Clear blue sky above.

Don’t Miss the Beach: Many hikers see the view and leave, but you must descend the paved stairs at the left corner of the parking lot. This leads you down to the actual sand of Praia da Marinha, consistently ranked as one of the world's most beautiful beaches.

Two Paths to Choose From:

Right (West) – The Seven Hanging Valleys: This is the main 6 km (one-way) route toward Benagil and Carvoeiro.
Left (East) – The Hidden Gem: To the left of the trailhead is a quieter path leading toward Praia da Albandeira. It's about 2.5 km one-way and features the incredible "Natural Arches of Mesquita"—perfect if you want to escape the main tourist flow.

Viewpoints & Logistics: Hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys

Feature	Details
Distance	6km (one-way) / 12km (round-trip)
Difficulty	Moderate (stair climbs and uneven limestone)
Top Viewpoint	The Benagil "Eye": A fenced-off sinkhole where you can look directly down into the cave.
Key Landmark	Alfanzina Lighthouse: A perfect halfway mark with sweeping panoramic views.

Benagil Cave. A hidden beach inside a rocky cave, with turquoise water and golden sand. Sunlight highlights the cave walls, casting shadows on the sand.

Beyond the Cliffs: Seeing Benagil from the Water

The trail lets you see the "Eye" of the Benagil Cave from above, but to experience the interior beach, you have to get wet.

Boat Tours: Best for those who want to see the whole coastline without the workout. Most boats depart from Carvoeiro or Portimão. Note: Larger boats can only enter the cave entrance and won't let you disembark.
Kayaking & SUP: If you want to stand on the sand inside the cave, renting a kayak at Benagil Beach is the way to go. It’s a short paddle, but it gives you the freedom to explore the grotto at your own pace (weather permitting).

Carvoeiro, a coastal village with white houses and red roofs, overlooking a sandy beach. A path with blue railing leads towards palm trees. Clear blue sky.

Post-Hike Fuel in Carvoeiro

Once you’ve finished your trek, head into the charming village of Carvoeiro (a 5-minute drive from the Centeanes end) for a well-earned meal:

For Seafood Lovers: Restaurante O Marisco offers the freshest catch of the day in a traditional, friendly atmosphere.
For a Hearty Feast: The Wolf Bar & Grill is famous for its premium steaks and modern cocktails—the ultimate reward after a 12 km hike.

Aerial view of waves crashing against rugged, brown cliffs in the Algarve. The ocean is deep blue with white foam. No people or text present.

The Seven Hanging Valleys trail is widely considered the best coastal hike in the Algarve for good reason: it is accessible, well-marked, and offers a high "effort-to-reward" ratio. While the 12 km round trip (from Praia da Marinha to Praia de Vale Centeanes) is manageable for most fitness levels, ensure you bring plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear for the rocky sections, and aim to start early to avoid the midday heat. Whether you hike the full length or just a segment, the trail provides a definitive look at Portugal’s unique limestone geology and turquoise waters that you simply cannot see from the road.