The Seven Hanging Valleys of Lagoa, Algarve, were voted “The Best Hiking Destination in Europe” in a ranking promoted by European Best Destinations, which was voted by over 28,000 travelers from 153 countries.

 

The route of the Seven Hanging Valleys of Lagoa, which links Vale Centeanes Beach to Praia da Marinha along 5.7 km, stood out for being “a true treasure of rare beauty”, thus being ahead of imposing tourist attractions. in countries like Norway, England, France or Spain.

 

This distinction from European Best Destinations, a Brussels-based organization dedicated to the promotion of culture and tourism in Europe, will now bring information about this pedestrian trail to millions of travelers, contributing to the reinforcement of the Algarves position as a reference destination for tourists. Nature lovers and outdoor activities.

 

How to Travel the Seven Hanging Valleys

 

It is a course made along the coastal cliff that is intersected by seven water lines that created, over time, small valleys, hence the name of the course. The route starting at Praia da Marinha begins next to the information board in the picnic area. The magnificent view over this beach allows us to observe a jagged cliff line where you can find a great diversity of geoforms such as arches, caves (at the west end of the beach), algars (to the west of the beach) and leixões (at the West and East limits).

 

Along the way you can see the interesting shrubbery with species such as the aroeira, juniper and the executioner that, in some places, reach a tree size.

 

In the third valley comes the beach of Benagil where fishing boats are busy today, also for visits to caves and secluded beaches.

 

Along the way you can also observe some birds that shelter in the rocky walls, such as gulls, cormorants or pigeons, among others.

 

After Carvalho beach and before reaching Leixão do Lidente, you can rest under a wooden structure and observe the landscape.

 

Before reaching the Alfanzina Lighthouse, the route continues through a patch of pine forest in a valley protected from the sea winds, which allows the growth of larger pine trees, thus providing a shade and freshness of this route.

 

In the last valley, before Centeanes beach, there is still opportunity to stay in another wooden gazebo with privileged views of the coast.

 

•