The Algarve is a popular escape for many tourists around the world. The beauty of the coast, the stunning golf courses and the natural landscape really allows people to kick back, relax and forget about their worries.
Looking after our mental health is so important and many professionals, such as the counsellors at UKAT, a private mental health clinic London based, suggest getting out in the fresh air and amongst nature can have a significant impact on boosting mental health.
Across the Algarve there are plenty of opportunities to do that, with some stunning walks, ideal for switching off and de-stressing. So, if you’re in the region, here are five that you’ll certainly feel the mental health benefits of…
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Sete Vales Suspensos) is one of the Algarve’s most famous walks, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, secluded beaches, and impressive limestone cliffs. Stretching 5.7 kilometres one way (around 11 kilometres return), the trail runs from Praia da Marinha to Vale de Centeanes, passing through dramatic coastal landscapes that are sure to calm the mind and lift the spirit.
The combination of stunning sea views, the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs, and the scent of salt in the air provides a truly immersive experience. Walking this trail offers a sense of serenity and awe, which can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. The rhythmic nature of walking along this trail, accompanied by the beauty of the surrounding nature, makes it a perfect setting for mindfulness and reflection. Spending time by the sea is also known to have soothing effects on the mind, making the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail an ideal walk for mental rejuvenation.
Ria Formosa Natural Park
For those who prefer gentler, flat walks, the Ria Formosa Natural Park offers an oasis of tranquillity. This unique coastal lagoon stretches over 60 kilometres and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including flamingos, storks, and rare bird species. The walking trails here meander through salt pans, marshlands, and sandy islands, providing a peaceful environment that feels far removed from the stresses of daily life.
Walking through the Ria Formosa encourages mindfulness as you take in the calming sounds of birds and the soft rustling of reeds. The slow pace of the lagoon, combined with the quietude of the surrounding nature, makes this walk perfect for clearing your mind and practising mental relaxation techniques. Whether you choose a short stroll or a longer hike, the park’s beauty and serenity offer a perfect antidote to anxiety and stress.
Via Algarviana
For those seeking a more immersive walking experience, the Via Algarviana is a long-distance trail that runs from Alcoutim, near the Spanish border, to Cape St. Vincent, the southwestern tip of Europe. The full route is approximately 300 kilometres long, passing through the Algarve’s mountainous interior, charming villages, and rolling countryside. You don’t need to walk the entire trail to benefit from its mental health-boosting effects; simply choose a section that appeals to you.
Walking through the Algarve’s quiet rural areas, far from the bustling tourist hotspots, provides a deeper connection to nature and offers time for reflection and mental stillness. The landscapes along the Via Algarviana vary from cork oak forests to olive groves and peaceful valleys, offering a rich sensory experience that helps to soothe the mind and promote a sense of peace. The act of walking long distances, especially in nature, is known to have meditative qualities, helping to alleviate stress and improve mood.
Ponta da Piedade, Lagos
Located near the town of Lagos, Ponta da Piedade is famous for its spectacular rock formations, sea arches, and hidden caves. A relatively short walk along the cliff-top paths allows you to take in some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the Algarve. The walk is not particularly strenuous, making it accessible for most people, yet the stunning views over the turquoise waters and golden cliffs provide a powerful sense of awe and tranquillity.
Spending time in awe-inspiring natural environments like Ponta da Piedade has been shown to boost mental health by promoting feelings of wonder and perspective. This can help shift focus away from daily worries and enhance a sense of gratitude and contentment. The combination of fresh sea air, wide-open vistas, and the sound of the ocean makes this walk a perfect escape from the pressures of modern life.
Monchique Mountain
For those who prefer a change of scenery from the coast, the Monchique Mountains offer a peaceful retreat into nature. The highest point in the Algarve, Foia, stands at 902 metres and offers panoramic views over the region. The walking trails around Monchique are surrounded by lush forests, bubbling streams, and fragrant eucalyptus trees, creating a cool, refreshing environment that’s ideal for mental relaxation.
Walking in the mountains encourages mindfulness and deep breathing, both of which are known to reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calm. The quiet and solitude of the mountain paths provide a perfect setting for contemplation and mental clarity. The physical exertion of walking uphill can also help release endorphins, the body's natural mood enhancers, leaving you feeling more positive and energised.
Photo courtesy of Depositphotos.com
