Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Natural wonder
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos, is a cliff-top walking route along the central Algarve coastline that is widely considered one of the finest coastal paths in Europe. The trail runs approximately 5.7 kilometres between Praia da Marinha in the east and Praia de Vale Centeanes in the west, following the cliff edge through a landscape of extraordinary geological drama, with golden limestone formations, natural arches, sea stacks, hidden cove beaches, and the famous Benagil Cave directly below the path at roughly the midway point.
The trail takes its name from the seven dry valleys, or hanging valleys, that the path crosses along its route. These valleys were carved by streams that once flowed to the sea but now end abruptly at the cliff edge, their watercourses having been truncated by coastal erosion that has steadily eaten back the cliff line. The effect is of steep-sided ravines opening dramatically onto vertical cliff faces, creating viewpoints of considerable grandeur at each crossing. The surrounding vegetation is typical Mediterranean maquis and phrygana, with low-growing aromatic shrubs, wild rosemary, thyme, cistus, and sea lavender providing colour and scent throughout much of the year, particularly vibrant in the spring months.
The walk is linear rather than circular, and most walkers arrange transport at one or both ends, though it is possible to walk the route in both directions for a total distance of roughly 11.5 kilometres. Some walkers park at Praia da Marinha and take a taxi back from Vale Centeanes, or vice versa. The path is well-marked with red and white waymarks following the PR standard of Portuguese walking trails and is generally easy to follow, though the terrain is uneven in places with some short, steep ascents and descents into and out of the hanging valleys. The walking time is typically two to three hours in one direction, allowing for stops at the numerous viewpoints and photograph opportunities. The trail is not suitable for those with a significant fear of heights, as several sections pass close to unfenced cliff edges with steep drops to the sea below.
Key viewpoints along the route include the natural double arch at Praia da Marinha, consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Portugal and in Europe; the Benagil Cave, visible from directly above through its collapsed ceiling, with the beach and turquoise water far below; the Arco de Albandeira, a photogenic sea arch standing in the surf offshore; and the towering sculpted rock formations around Praia da Mesquita and Praia do Carvalho. The variety and density of geological interest along a relatively short distance is remarkable, and the elevated cliff-top perspective provides views that are simply inaccessible from beach level or from boats.
The trail is freely accessible year-round and there is no entrance fee. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons for walking, when temperatures are comfortable, wildflowers carpet the cliff tops, and the light is at its most photogenic. Summer walks should be started early in the morning to avoid the fierce midday and afternoon heat, as there is virtually no shade along the entire route. Drinking water should be carried, as there are no facilities or refreshment points between the start and end. The car park at Praia da Marinha charges a small fee during the summer months.