If you are going to visit Praia da Marinha, Benagil or Carvoeiro, this trail is probably one of the best ways to spend a morning in the Algarve.
It is a coastal trail between Praia da Marinha and Praia de Vale Centeanes, around 5.7 km one way. You can walk it in one direction and arrange transport back, or return on foot for around 11 to 12 km total.
What I like about this trail is that it is not about reaching a single viewpoint. The scenery is good almost the entire way.
Along the route you will pass limestone cliffs, natural arches, sea caves, sinkholes and some of the most famous coastal views in Portugal.
You will also pass several beaches, including Praia da Marinha, Praia do Carvalho, Benagil and Vale Centeanes. Some are easy to access, while others are best enjoyed from the viewpoints above.
A few things worth knowing before you go.
The trail is linear, not circular.
There is very little shade, so avoid the hottest hours during summer.
Bring water and wear proper shoes. It is not a difficult hike, but some sections are uneven.
Stay on the marked paths and keep a safe distance from the cliff edge.
If you are staying around Carvoeiro, Vale Centeanes is usually one of the easiest places to start.
One thing that surprised me is that many people spend hundreds of euros on boat tours in this area but never experience the coastline from above. The views from the trail are completely different and, in some places, just as impressive.
For me, this is one of the highlights of the Algarve and a place I would happily revisit.
Planning a trip to the Algarve?
My Algarve Travel Guide includes a practical PDF guide and curated Google Maps lists covering beaches, viewpoints, restaurants, day trips, cultural sites and off-the-beaten-path places.
www.portugaldigitalguides.com
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