Aldeias e Mangualde da Serra e Mangualde da Serra e Mangualde da Serra
Aldeias e Mangualde da Serra e Mangualde da Serra e Mangualde da Serra
Best lakes around Aldeias e Mangualde da Serra e Mangualde da Serra e Mangualde da Serra are situated within the Serra da Estrela mountain range in Portugal. This region features a mountainous landscape with both natural lakes and artificial reservoirs. These water bodies contribute to the area's natural beauty and provide opportunities for outdoor activities. The geological formations, including glacial origins, are notable features of the local lakes.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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Covão dos Conchos is an artificial lagoon located in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Portugal, near the mountain village of Sabugueiro. Covão dos Conchos became famous for its bell-mouth spillway[1]. The spillway was built in 1955 to allow water to be transferred from the Ribeira das Naves River to Lagoa Comprida. It is part of the Serra da Estrela Hydroelectric System. This science fiction-style spillway became famous when photographs of the hole went viral on social media in 2016. Over the past 60 years, the growth of vegetation at the funnel's mouth has created extraordinary biodiversity and increased its ethereal allure. It is 4.6 meters high and 48 meters in circumference. The tunnel that collects the water is 1,519 meters long.
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Located within the Planalto Superior biogenetic reserve, the Rossim Valley is a unique location of great scientific, environmental, and scenic value that deserves to be protected and enhanced. Although it is an artificial lake, over time, conditions have been created that have transformed this area into an excellent leisure and recreation area that attracts countless tourists. The Vale do Rossim recreation center is located at an average altitude of 1,437 meters. Before the dam was built, it was one of the best high-altitude pastures in the municipality of Gouveia. The area has almost always been frequented by transhumance herds, flocks that gathered here from São João to the Sr. do Calvário festivities in August.
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Thanks for sharing.🙏
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At over 1,400 meters above sea level, the Rossim Valley Reservoir is a haven of granite, pine trees, and crystal-clear waters in the heart of the Serra da Estrela Mountains. It's the perfect setting for strolls, summer swims, and admiring nature in all its splendor, one of Portugal's highest jewels.
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Hiking in the Serra da Estrela is always pleasant, with stunning scenery and spectacular trails. 👍
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This restaurant and bar is located right on the lake (there's nothing else in the area), and it's nice to sip a nice beer 🍺 and grab a bite to eat after a sunny day or a nice hike. Also... For those who want to stay longer, there's the Vale do Rossim Eco Resort: camping, equipped yurts, or wooden cabins, with the option of half-board at a reasonable price at this lakeside restaurant. Breakfast is good, dinner is very simple, but all drinks are included, including a bottle of wine 🍷 🤪.
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A beautiful nature trail, about 9 km round trip to Covão dos Conchos. Unfortunately, on August 15th, the water couldn't reach the hole and thus reveal the waterfalls. It's a reservoir, part of the Serra da Estrela hydroelectric system. A funnel-shaped drainage structure that allows water to flow from this body of water to Lagoa Comprida. The spillway was built in 1955 to divert water from Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida. Over the past 60 years, moss and foliage have grown over the mouth of the funnel, creating a captivating spectacle. It is 4.6 meters high and 4.8 meters in circumference. The tunnel that collects the water is 1,519 meters long. It's a stunning place to visit, not only for the combination of human intervention and nature, but also for the surrounding landscape.
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Located at an altitude of approximately 1,600 meters, Lagoa Comprida is the largest water reservoir in the Serra da Estrela, intended for hydroelectric generation. This natural lake lies in a wide depression of glacial origin, approximately one kilometer long, which fed the Covão Grande glacier. Numerous glacial scars are visible along its banks, making this lake one of the most interesting geomorphological sites in the Serra da Estrela. Construction on this lake began in 1911, and by 1914, it was already six meters high. Later, in 1965, it underwent heightening work that increased its height to 28 meters, currently boasting a storage capacity of approximately 14 cubic hectometers, flooding an area of approximately 80 hectares. Small streams of water flow into this lagoon, as well as water retained in the Covões dos Conchos and Covões do Meio and carried to this lagoon through underground tunnels.
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The region features several significant lakes. Long Lake (Lagoa Comprida) is the largest water reservoir in the Serra da Estrela, known for its glacial origin and high altitude. Another prominent spot is the Vale do Rossim Reservoir, an artificial lake that has become a popular leisure area. The Covão dos Conchos Trail also leads to a unique water reservoir with impressive views.
Yes, the Vale do Rossim Reservoir is considered family-friendly, offering a leisure and recreation area. The Covão dos Conchos Trail is also categorized as family-friendly, though some parts may require good footwear due to loose stones.
You'll encounter stunning mountainous landscapes, particularly around Long Lake, which boasts visible glacial scars, making it a geomorphological site of interest. The region is characterized by granite formations, pine trees, and crystal-clear waters, especially at the Vale do Rossim Reservoir. You can also find waterfalls like the Hidden cascade at Poço do Inferno.
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, with trails like the easy Vale do Rossim Reservoir loop. Road cycling is also popular, with challenging routes such as the Loop tour from Manteigas in the Serra da Estrela. For runners, there are options like the Estrela Taurus circular route.
Yes, there are options for beginners. The Vale do Rossim Reservoir loop is an easy hiking trail. The Covão dos Conchos Trail is also generally considered easy, though it has areas with loose stones requiring good footwear.
The Vale do Rossim Reservoir is a popular spot for summer swims. Additionally, the Hidden cascade at Poço do Inferno features a natural pool that invites swimming, offering a more secluded experience.
The region is beautiful year-round, but for swimming and enjoying the full range of outdoor activities, the summer months are ideal. However, visiting in October can offer unique experiences, such as seeing the water flow into the 'drain' at Covão dos Conchos after heavy rains, though paths might be challenging.
Yes, near the Vale do Rossim Reservoir, you can find the Vale do Rossim River Beach Restaurant. It's a nicely located spot to enjoy a meal or a drink after a hike or a day by the lake.
Good walking shoes are essential, especially on trails like the Covão dos Conchos Trail, which can have many loose stones and uneven terrain. For the Hidden cascade at Poço do Inferno, good footwear and sure-footedness are required for the ascent. In sunny weather, protection from the sun is also necessary as many trails lack shade.
Visitors frequently praise the magnificent landscapes, stunning scenery, and the serene environment. The unique geological features, such as the glacial origins of Long Lake, and the impressive sight of the 'drain' at Covão dos Conchos are often highlighted. The opportunity for relaxation and various outdoor activities in a high-altitude setting is also a major draw.
While specific parking details for each lake are not provided, popular leisure areas like the Vale do Rossim Reservoir, which attracts many tourists, typically have parking facilities to accommodate visitors.
The Hidden cascade at Poço do Inferno is described as somewhat hidden and difficult to access, offering a chance to be alone with nature. It's a beautiful waterfall with a natural pool, often considered a highlight for those willing to seek it out.


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