The Carvoeiro trails you won’t want to miss
Beaches, caves, rolling hills, and untouched nature. That’s what awaits those who choose the Algarve as the destination for their next walking holiday. In fact, over here, on Europe’s sunny western edge, you’ll find walking season is in full swing now, so there’s no time like the present to get planning! And while you may have to dodge the odd rainy day or two between now and June, the generally blue skies and comfortable temperatures hovering around the late teens or early 20s from now on make for ideal walking conditions before the blazing summer sun hits and all you’ll want to do is laze on a beach.
So, if you’re planning a trip to come walking in the Algarve, read on for the best trails around Carvoeiro.
Walking in the Algarve
Everyone who comes to the Algarve is in search of something. Once here, they find they can shake off the weight they’ve been carrying and truly take in the world around them. A world of red craggy cliffs rising out of a glistening blue sea. Of long stretches of untouched golden sand and secret coves waiting to be explored.
And whether consciously or not, most people who come here for a walking holiday leave feeling like they found what they came for. After all, there’s nothing like getting your body moving to connect you with your surroundings and truly allow you to switch off.
So, if you’re around Carvoeiro and keen to explore, where should you head first?
7 Hanging Valleys Trail
The 7 Hanging Valleys trail (PR1) is the most famous of the trails around Carvoeiro. With around 6 kilometres of linear trail snaking along Carveoiro’s craggy coast from Praia da Marinha to Praia de Centianes, it’s a breathtaking adventure one-way, or double the fun if you double back. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, the captivating trail sets off from one of the Algarve’s (and Europe’s) most beautiful beaches, featuring its famous heart-shaped rock formation. Hikers then head along the tops of the cliffs, with the scenic landscape unfurling around every corner. Adventuring over 7 hanging valleys, around hidden coves and over sinkholes, it’s sure to be a day to remember.
One of the Algarve’s most famous hiking trails, it is well-signposted and popular year-round, which means you’re likely to come across other nature lovers along the way. However, if you choose to explore off-season, take snacks, as the beach restaurants and concessions will mostly be closed until tourist season starts. There are, however, restaurants Praia do Vale de Centeanes and Benagil.
Other Trails Around Carvoeiro
Trail of Headlands
Starting only a 7-minute drive from the Rocha Brava Village Resort at Paraíso Beach, this trail takes you all the way to the mouth of the Arade River in Ferragudo. Along the 12-13 km route there and back, promontories rise out of the sea, framing the landscape, alternating with inlets carved out of the coastline, sheltering private beaches. A particularly notable trail for avid birdwatchers, it also features historic landmarks, including 16th/17th-century Torre da Lapa and the remains of a Roman dam.
Other trails that promise to take walkers through gorgeous scenery packed with local fauna and flora include two just over 5 km long trails: the Salgados Lagoon Trail through Pera Marsh in Armação de Pêra and the Alvor Boardwalk & Estuary Trail through the Alvor Protected Landscape.
So Much to Explore Beyond the Resort!
When you stay at a resort where everything’s at your fingertips, it’s tempting never to leave the premises. Though the Rocha Brava Village Resort has pools and restaurants, a supermarket, and a whole host of sporting facilities, make sure you also set aside a day or two to explore the beauty right at your doorstep—you certainly won’t regret it!