Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

Complete guide to the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, its beaches, how to get there and where to stay


Seven Hanging Valleys trail above Marinha Beach, Algarve

There are several wonderful walking trails in Algarve, but this is the one that even those who don’t usually hike will want to experience. It offers stunning views and goes through some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. It’s considered one of the best hikes on the continent, and when you see and experience it for yourself, you’ll surely agree.

Seven Hanging Valleys, Algarve, Portugal

The golden cliffs, the turquoise sea, the Mediterranean flora, and intriguing rock formations and caves are quintessential Algarve, and make it one of the most memorable walks and activities on a trip to southern Portugal. Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged, as you’ll be taking countless photos.

Beach on the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, Algarve

Most people start at Praia da Marinha, which everyone will tell you is Algarve’s must-see beach. From there, the trail continues over the cliffs to the west, over other beaches of the Lagoa district (Praia de Benagil and Praia do Carvalho), and ends at Praia de Vale Centeanes. At Benagil, it’s possible to hop on a boat to the famous Benagil Cave and tour the spectacular coast of hidden grottoes and tall sea stacks sculpted by the forces of nature over thousands of years.

Seven Hanging Valleys trail above Carvalho Beach, Algarve

This is a relatively easy trail, just not recommended for the elderly, young children or those with mobility issues. It covers a total of 5.7 kilometers (3.5 miles), but as most people go and return to the starting point, they end up walking double that. Depending on how many stops you make, the entire walk can take over two hours (over four hours to go and return). Many people stop to rest and relax at the beaches for a while, so this often ends up being an all-day activity. There’s a picnic area to the east of the Alfanzina lighthouse, which stands between Praia do Carvalho and Praia de Vale Centeanes. If you’re not a keen walker, consider going just between Praia da Marinha and Praia de Benagil.

Seven Hanging Valleys trail, Algarve

Always wear light clothing, comfortable footwear, a hat and sunglasses, and use enough sunscreen. Also don’t forget to take plenty of water and a few snacks, and don’t leave any trash on the ground! The trail is rather safe, but you should always keep some distance from the edge of the cliffs (some parts are fenced for safety). In case of any emergency, dial 112.

Marinha beach on the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, Algarve

The name of the trail derives from the eroded valley that was sliced by seven streams over the years. Displays spread along the coast explain the natural features, the fauna and the flora.

Display on the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, Algarve

Beaches on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail


There are four beaches on the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, accessed from the top of the cliffs (there are others only accessible by boat). They are:

Praia da Marinha, Algarve

  • Praia da Marinha
  • It’s one of the top beaches in Algarve and the one everyone will tell you is a must-visit. Even if you don’t stay sunbathing, you’ll surely spend quite some time admiring the spectacular rock formations from the top of the cliffs.

    See the Praia da Marinha Guide.


    Praia do Carvalho, Algarve

  • Praia do Carvalho
  • To reach this beach, you have to find a tunnel dug on the ground. It has a fairy tale atmosphere, not just for the “secret” passage, but also for the “window” open on a cliff that frames a picture-perfect view, with a rock perfectly centered in the water.

    See the Praia do Carvalho Guide.


    Praia de Benagil, Algarve

  • Praia de Benagil
  • It's not a very big beach, and it wouldn't be as popular as it is if it wasn’t the main access to the must-see Benagil Cave. This is considered one of the most extraordinary sea caves in the world, and if you can't make it there by boat, you can always peek inside it from above, through an opening found on the trail at the top of the cliff.

    See the Praia de Benagil Guide.


    Praia de Vale Centeanes, Algarve

  • Praia de Vale Centeanes
  • Boats also depart from this beach to the Benagil Cave. It's close to the town of Carvoeiro, so it's where many tourists start their hike through the Seven Hanging Valleys, instead of in Praia da Marinha. Unlike many other beaches in the area, it has a restaurant, perfect to recover some calories at the end of the hike.

    See the Praia de Vale Centeanes Guide.


    How to Get to the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail


    The Seven Hanging Valleys is in the Lagoa district, which is best reached by car. Trains from Faro and other major towns in Algarve stop at the Estômbar-Lagoa station, which is outside the center of town and away from the coast. The bus is therefore the only reasonable public transportation option. Number 52, operated by Vamus between May 1st and October 31st, runs six times a day (every 2 hours) between the towns of Alvor and Armação de Pêra, stopping at Praia da Rocha (Portimão), Ferragudo, Carvoeiro, and the beaches of Carvalho, Benagil and Marinha, which are part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. There’s also the very infrequent bus 77, which does a circular route from/to the bus station in Lagoa, stopping at Praia da Marinha and Benagil. However, this bus just has three departures between May and October (one in the morning and two in the afternoon) and only two between November and April (one in the morning and another in the afternoon). You can check the current schedule on the Vamus website.
    If you’re based in Carvoeiro, you can walk from the center of town to the beach of Vale Centeanes and start the hike from there. From other places in the region, such as Porches, or even from the cities of Portimão, Armação de Pêra and Albufeira, you might also want to go by taxi or Uber (a taxi can be expensive; Uber is a little cheaper).
    If you’re driving, take highway A22 or road N125 from anywhere in Algarve and head in the direction of Lagoa and then to Praia da Marinha. This is the beach with the most parking on the trail, although you still have to go early to find a spot.

    Hotels by the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail


    Tivoli Carvoeiro, Algarve

    Tivoli Carvoeiro

    It’s just 3 minutes by car or a 15-minute walk from Praia de Vale Centeanes and the best place to stay by the trail. It stands right above the ocean, so you’re guaranteed incredible views. The 5-star service includes a spa, two restaurants, a rooftop bar, and an outdoor swimming pool.

    SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Tivoli Carvoeiro


    Vila Alba Resort, Algarve

    Vila Alba Resort

    Located between the beaches of Albandeira and Barranquinho, this resort places you within 10 minutes by car from the start of the trail in Praia da Marinha. It’s perfect for those who want to be surrounded by nature. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant with sea views.

    SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Vila Alba Resort


    Quinta Nova Vale Del Rey, Algarve

    Quinta Nova Vale Del Rey

    This bed-and-breakfast is a good value and in a quiet location, just 5 minutes by car from the trail (Praia da Marinha). It has double rooms, a studio and a suite, and a heated outdoor swimming pool.

    SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Quinta Nova Vale Del Rey


    Montinho Boutique Suites, Algarve

    Montinho Boutique Suites

    The studios and suites of this highly-rated bed-and-breakfast are just 5 minutes by car from Praia da Marinha and the trail. It has a swimming pool in a peaceful garden and is meant for couples.

    SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Montinho Boutique Suites