Algarve located in southern Portugal, is a true paradise for fans of nature and hiking. The long coastline provides great conditions for walking miles along the cliff tops admiring breathtaking views. Explore Two of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Algarve.
Route of the Seven Hanging Valleys – Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos
The Seven HangingValleys Trail(Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos) has been named one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Europe in 2019 by European Best Destinations.
Basic data of the route:
Location: Lagoa, the route runs between Marinha beach and Vale Centeanes beach; (two-way route)
GPS coordinates: Praia da Marinha (37.09018, -8.413) | Praia Vale de Centeanes (37.09148, -8.45398);
Degree of difficulty: moderate/medium-high difficulty; some sections may be more difficult for the elderly or children;
Type of trail: marked trail on paved ground;
Route length: about 6 km (about 12 km total round trip);
Average passage time: about 4-6 hours;
Best time to visit: all year round, although best in spring or autumn due to high summer temperatures
The Seven HangingValleys Trail(Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos) is an approximately 12-kilometer (back and forth) cliff walk starting at Praia da Marinha, east of Carvoeiro, running to Vale Centeanes beach. The route has some interesting viewpoints so be sure to reserve enough time and bring your camera.
The first place worth noting is Praia da Marinha beach itself. It is one of the most beautiful and recognizable beaches in Portugal. The beautiful views of the rock arches, and the caves are an amazing feast for the eyes and soul, which will surely be remembered for a long time.
Another vantage point on the Seven Hanging Valleys trail is the world-famous Benagil sea cave. This impressive rock formation is the result of a gradual build-up of limestone. From the trail itself you can admire its impressive center. The center of the cave can only be reached by sea. You can pre-book a guided kayak tour to the cave (to book, click HERE) or SUP (to book click HERE) starting from Benagil beach.
The next stop will be Praia do Carvalho beach, often referred to as the Bay of Smugglers. This beach can only be reached on foot via a steep staircase and a tunnel through a cliff. It’s worth taking a few moments’ break here and enjoying the beauty of the ocean. The last attraction on the trail is the Alfanzina lighthouse and Praia do Vale Centeanes where the trail ends. You can take the same route back to the starting point.
Route of Portuguese fishermen – Trilho dos Pescadores Rota Vicentina
The Trilho dos Pescadores Rota Vicentina fishing route is a 13 section route of 226.5 kilometers along the Costa Vicentina. The route starts in S. Torpes in the Alentejo and ends in Lagos in the Algarve. It is an amazing trail, with an intermediate level of difficulty that delights with beautiful views.
Trail sections:
- S. Torpes – Porto Covo: 10 km
- Porto Covo – Vila Nova de Milfontes 20 km
- Vila Nova de Milfontes – Almograve: 15.5 km
- Almograve – Zambujeira do Mar: 22km
- Zambujeira do Mar – Odeceixe: 18.5 km
- Odeceixe – Aljezur: 22.5 km
- Aljezur – Arrifana: 17.5 km
- Arrifana- Carrapateira: 21.5 km
- Carrapateira – Vila do Bispo: 16 km
- Vila do Bispo – Sagres: 20.5 km
- Sagres – Salema: 19.5 km
- Salema – Luz: 12 km
- Luz – Lagos: 11 km
A full interactive map and detailed descriptions of each section can be found on the trail’s official website.
Accommodation and car rental in the Algarve
If you’re also looking for a rental car in the Algarve or Lisbon, be sure to check out this offer >>, while if you are looking for accommodation in the Algarve, be sure to read this article >>.
