Thinking about doing the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in the Algarve? Then this guide is for you.
When we think of the Algarve, hiking isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind. I thought the same… until I realized that one of the most beautiful trails in Portugal is right here. And the best part? You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to do it.
In this guide, I’ll show you everything you need to know to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail—from where to start and what to expect along the way, to practical tips and how to make the most of the experience.
Located in the municipality of Lagoa, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail connects Praia da Marinha to Praia de Vale Centeanes.
The route is linear (5.7 km/ 3.5 miles one way) and, although it’s rated as moderate, it’s not as challenging as it might seem.
Most of the trail runs along the top of the cliffs, making it a very scenic walk right by the sea.
It’ll be hard not to stop every few steps for another photo! Many of the views are absolutely stunning. And on hotter days, it’ll be just as hard to resist taking a dip along the way.
The trail gets its name from the seven hanging valleys you’ll come across along the way. Throughout the route, the cliffs are cut by small water streams that flow into the sea, creating these unique natural formations that make the trail even more special.
👉Quick info for the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Short on time? Here are the essentials for hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail:
📍 Starting point: Praia da Marinha or Praia de Vale Centeanes
🚗 Parking: available at both trailheads
📏 Distance: 5.7 km/ 3.5 miles (one way)
⌛ Duration: about 3 hours (without long stops)
🥾 Trail type: linear
⚡ Difficulty: moderate (some elevation changes, but manageable for most people)
⚠️ Safety: there are fences along parts of the trail (cliffs and sinkholes) that should not be crossed
🚕 Getting back: if you hike one way, you can return by Uber or taxi
🌞 Best time to go: spring and fall; in summer, avoid the hottest hours (very little shade)
💡 Quick tip: bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t underestimate the heat—the trail is very exposed to the sun
🗺️ Official map: check it here before starting the hike
Is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail worth it?
Yes, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is absolutely worth it, especially if you enjoy scenic hikes.
It’s easily one of the most beautiful trails in the Algarve. For most of the route, you’ll be walking along cliff tops with the ocean right beside you, passing impressive rock formations, hidden beaches, and iconic spots like the Benagil Cave.
Every few steps, there’s another viewpoint or view that makes you stop.
That said, it’s important to set expectations. The trail is very exposed to the sun, with little shade, and can feel more challenging on hot days. Since it’s a linear route, you’ll also need to plan your return.
But if you come prepared, it’s one of those experiences that’s definitely worth adding to your Algarve itinerary.
How to get to the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is located in the municipality of Lagoa, in the Algarve, and connects Praia da Marinha to Praia de Vale Centeanes.
The easiest way to get to the trail is by car. It not only makes access simpler, but also gives you more flexibility to plan your hike, especially since the trail is linear.
You can choose to:
- Park at Praia da Marinha (the most popular starting point)
- Park at Vale Centeanes
Having a car really makes a difference here. It gives you the flexibility to choose where to start, plan your return more easily, and even combine the trail with other nearby spots in the Algarve.
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How to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: step by step
1. Start of the trail
You can start the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail at Praia da Marinha, one of the most popular starting points. There’s a medium-sized parking lot here, which makes things fairly easy in terms of logistics.
From the very first minutes, be prepared… it’s hard not to stop for photos. The views over Praia da Marinha are stunning, and it was easily one of the places where I spent the most time.
The trail (PR1 LGA) is marked along the way. Still, there are sections where the direction isn’t completely obvious, so it’s worth paying a bit more attention.
2. Praia da Marinha → Praia da Mesquita
Follow the cliffs until you reach Praia da Mesquita, one of the first highlights of the trail. This is where you’ll see the famous rock formation with two arches that create a heart-shaped effect.
3. Viewpoints → Praia da Corredoura
As you continue along the trail, you’ll pass several viewpoints before reaching views over Praia da Corredoura. It’s a more untouched beach, only accessible by sea, which makes it feel even more special.
It’s hard not to fall in love with such beauty, isn’t it?
4. Benagil Cave (a must-stop)
Further along the trail, you’ll reach the Benagil Cave, one of the most anticipated spots. From the top, visibility is limited, and there are fences in place that should not be crossed.
These sinkholes (formed by the sea’s erosion of the rock) are a recurring feature along the trail.
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If you have the time, I highly recommend making a small detour.
Head down to Praia de Benagil and rent a kayak or SUP to visit the inside of the cave. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy it this much, but it ended up being one of the most memorable experiences I had in the Algarve.
The best way to do this is with an organized kayak tour like this one. It includes a guide and lets you explore not only the Benagil Cave, but also other hidden caves and beaches along the coast.
If you prefer, you can also rent a kayak or SUP directly at the beach. Just keep in mind that many places don’t accept cards, so it’s a good idea to bring cash.
It’s also possible to visit the cave by boat, but the experience is more limited. Besides being less engaging, some tours don’t allow you to get off the boat or stay inside the cave, so it’s worth checking these details before booking.
💡 EXTRA TIP: From Benagil Beach, it’s only about a 5-minute kayak ride to the cave, so it’s unlikely you’ll spend the full 1.5 hours there. That gives you time to explore more of the coastline, like paddling over to the nearby and less accessible Praia da Corredoura.
5. Praia de Benagil → Praia do Carvalho
After your stop in Benagil, continue along the trail toward Praia do Carvalho. The access is a bit more challenging, but the views are worth it.
Like many spots along this route, it’s harder to reach, but that’s part of what makes it so special.
6. Alfanzina Lighthouse and final stretch
Before reaching the end of the trail, you’ll pass by the Alfanzina Lighthouse and the Leixão dos Ladrões area.
7. Arrival at Praia de Vale Centeanes
The trail ends at Praia de Vale Centeanes, where you’ll find basic facilities and a restaurant—perfect for a break at the end of the hike.
8. Getting back to the starting point
Since the trail is linear, you have a few options for getting back:
- Walk the same way back
- Take an Uber or taxi
- Arrange transportation in advance
In my case, I took an Uber back to the starting point so I could use the rest of the day to explore more of the area. The ride took about 10 minutes and cost around 6€/ 7 USD (price in 2021).
Best time to walk the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
The best time to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is in spring or fall, when temperatures are milder and the experience is more comfortable.
The Algarve is known for its hot summers, and during this time, the trail can feel more demanding due to the constant sun exposure and lack of shade.
That said, it’s still possible to do it in summer. If you go, it’s best to start early in the morning to avoid the hottest part of the day.
When I hiked the trail, it was quite warm (with a high of 27°C/81°F that day), and I have to admit I didn’t start as early as I would have liked (I set off around 11 am).
There were moments when I wished it was a bit cooler, but overall, the hike was still manageable. The sea breeze helped a lot.
On rainy days or after it has rained, I don’t recommend walking it as most of the trail is on dirt roads.
What to bring on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
This is a wonderful trail, but given that the Algarve is known for its higher temperatures and there is little shade along the trail, it is important to make sure you pack a few things.
- Sun cream
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Water
- Some snacks or even lunch for a picnic
- Comfortable clothes and a swimming suit (for an eventual dip in the sea)
- Appropriate footwear (it is not at all recommended to walk the trail wearing flip-flops)
- Money (in case you want to stop for a meal on the way or go kayaking to visit Benagil cave)
- Protective phone case if you choose to visit Benagil Cave by kayak/SUP (this way you can bring your phone with you to take some photos in the cave)
Accommodation for those hiking Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
When I walked this trail, I was staying in the historical centre of Silves at Moisaiko Suites.
This accommodation is set in an old building that has been fully renovated. The rooms are spacious, and the rate includes breakfast, which is served in the restaurant located right next to the flats.
However, there are some other recommendations for accommodation near Lagoa:
- Lagoa: Lagoa Hotel
- Carvoeiro: Quinta das Andorinhas | Carvoeiro Hotel | Placid Village | O Quintal Guesthouse | Castelo Guest House
Frequently asked questions about the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
» What is the difficulty of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is considered moderate. The route is about 5.7km (3.5 miles) one way and includes some elevation changes and uneven sections, but it doesn’t require a high level of fitness. The main challenge is the sun exposure rather than the terrain itself.
» Can you do the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail without a car?
Yes, it’s possible to do the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail without a car, but it’s not the most practical option. Public transport to the trailheads is limited, so you may need to combine buses with a taxi or Uber. In this case, it’s usually easier to start at Praia de Vale Centeanes, which has better access than Praia da Marinha.
» Is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail suitable for children?
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail can be done with children, depending on their age and experience. For kids used to walking, it’s manageable. However, due to the cliffs and sun exposure, it requires close supervision and extra care.
» Can you visit Benagil Cave during the trail?
Yes, you can see the Benagil Cave from the top while hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. There are also access points to nearby beaches, including Praia de Benagil, where you can go down and visit the inside of the cave by kayak, SUP, or boat.
» Is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail safe?
Yes, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is safe as long as you follow the signs and don’t cross the fences along the cliffs. The main risks are the drop-offs and the heat, so make sure to bring water, wear sun protection, and stay alert while walking.
Final thoughts
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail offers constant views over the ocean, with impressive cliffs and beaches along the way that make every step worth it.
It’s a great option if you want to explore the Algarve in a different way. With a bit of planning, especially when it comes to the heat and your return, you’ll enjoy the experience much more.
If you’re planning to do the trail, take your time, bring water, and don’t rush it. The best part of this hike is being able to stop, take it all in, and enjoy each view at your own pace.
Planning to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail? Save this guide for your trip and feel free to leave any questions in the comments!
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