Explore Portugal's Stunning, Off-the-Beaten-Path Lakes this Summer, Avoiding Swarms of tourists
Portugal, a country rich in natural beauty, offers a diverse range of picturesque lakes that captivate visitors with their unique charm and landscapes. From the mainland to the Azores, these water bodies showcase a wide array of natural wonders, providing opportunities for relaxation, outdoor activities, and wildlife watching.
In the heart of Portugal's mainland and Alentejo region, Lagoa de Óbidos stands out as a serene lagoon near the town of Óbidos, offering a peaceful escape amidst the central region's natural beauty. Further north, Lake Azibo, nestled in a protected area, invites visitors to engage in various outdoor activities such as hiking, horse-riding, and water-skiing.
The Alentejo region, while not well-known for large natural lakes, boasts small rivers, reservoirs, and dams that create beautiful water landscapes amidst rolling hills and vineyards.
Moving south, the Algarve region presents a variety of lakes that complement its stunning coastline. The Ribeira da Carrapateira Lagoon and Dunes, with its wild and unspoiled character, offers peaceful walks and nature experiences. The Ria de Alvor Lagoon, an important wetland and lagoon habitat, is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the natural Algarve scenery. Artificial lakes such as the Funcho Dam and Beliche Dam also provide scenic views combined with energy and agricultural functions.
The Azores archipelago, located in the Atlantic Ocean, is home to several beautiful lakes. Lagoa do Fogo, one of the most famous and stunning crater lakes, boasts crystal-clear blue waters surrounded by lush greenery and volcanic landscapes. Lagoa do Congro, another spectacular volcanic crater lake, offers beautiful walking trails that bring visitors close to its serene environment.
The Azores also feature unique volcanic lakes such as the Furna do Enxofre, a sulfurous lake inside a volcanic cave, a rare and fascinating natural wonder.
In addition to these lakes, Portugal's mainland also hosts the Venice of Portugal, Ria de Aveiro, a lagoon system on the coast that combines water channels, salt pans, and colorful boats, offering a vibrant and picturesque water landscape. Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, a waterfall-fed pond in the Azores, is another noteworthy water body, known for its natural beauty.
Another notable lake in the Azores is Lagoa das Sete Cidades, split into two parts, one blue and the other green, offering a stunning view from the Vista do Rei vantage point. Vilarinho das Furnas lake, located in the Peneda-Gerês national park, owes its name to an ancient village that sank beneath the waters of a new dam.
The Great Lake of Alqueva, Europe's largest man-made lake, covers 250 km2 and is popular for swimming, kayaking, and sailing. It was created by a dam built on the River Guadiana in 2002.
These lakes represent some of the most beautiful and distinctive water bodies across Portugal, showcasing a wide range of natural beauty from tranquil lagoons and crater lakes to dynamic coastal wetlands. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape, an adventurous outdoor experience, or a chance to explore unique natural wonders, Portugal's lakes offer something for everyone.
In the enchanting home-and-garden of Portugal, the Algarve region's Ribeira da Carrapateira Lagoon and Dunes offers a tranquil lifestyle experience amidst its wild and unspoiled character. For travel enthusiasts, the Azores archipelago, dwelling in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, presents the unique volcanic lake, Furna do Enxofre, a fascinating addition to any exploration of the world's lifestyles and landscapes.
