Explore the serene beauty of Portugal’s top lakes. From crystal clear waters to breathtaking scenery, these destinations are a must-visit for nature lovers! In the article, we will introduce you to 11 of the best lakes in Portugal .
Portugal is renowned for its beautiful coastline and stunning beaches, but it also boasts plenty of spectacular lakes often overlooked by visitors.
These subtle bodies of water offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. They are perfect for a refreshing swim, leisurely paddle, or simply admiring the stunning scenery.
So, let’s explore some of the best lakes in Portugal in this article together and explain why they should be added to your travel itinerary.
more articles : The 14 Best Restaurants in Portugal
+ 11 of the best lakes in Portugal
From the crystal-clear waters of Barragem da Queimadela to the idyllic setting of Lagoa do Fogo, Portugal’s lakes offer diverse experiences for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
In the following, we will introduce you to 11 of the best lakes in Portugal that should be noticed!
1. Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo is undoubtedly one of the most stunning lakes in Portugal. Located in the Azores, this crater lake is surrounded by lush green mountains and forests, providing visitors with a peaceful and serene setting.
The lake’s crystal-clear waters offer an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with visibility reaching up to 15 meters on a clear day.
Lagoa do Fogo is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape amid stunning natural beauty.
2. Lagoa das Sete Cidades
Lagoa das Sete Cidades is a breathtaking lake in Portugal located on the island of São Miguel in the Azores, known for its stunning green and blue hues.
This twin lake is set in a caldera, surrounded by verdant hills, and is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque locations in Portugal.
If you go there, you can also enjoy a picnic on the shore while admiring the stunning scenery.
3. Furnas Lake
Furnas Lake is a beautiful and best volcanic lake in Portugal on the island of São Miguel in the Azores.
Lush vegetation, geysers, and hot springs provide a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors surrounding the lake.
The water in the lake is warm due to volcanic activity, and visitors can swim in the natural hot springs or take a relaxing soak.
The lake is also a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Along the shore, visitors can find restaurants that cook local dishes in the hot springs, such as cozido, a meat and vegetable stew.
4. Lagoa do Canário
Lagoa do Canário is another beautiful and best volcanic lake in Portugal, a crater lake located on the island of São Miguel in the Azores.
The lake is known for its emerald green waters, surrounded by dense vegetation and a beautiful hiking trail.
The hike offers breathtaking views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and coastline.
Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or a relaxing swim in the lake’s cool waters.
5. Lagoa do Congro
Lagoa do Congro Lake is one of the best lakes in Portugal and is surrounded by lush vegetation, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.
The lake is also an excellent spot for fishing, with the opportunity to catch trout and other freshwater fish.
Lagoa do Congro is a hidden gem of São Miguel and a must-see location for a unique and peaceful experience in Portugal.
6. Lagoa da Brejoeira
Lagoa da Brejoeira is part of the Corno de Bico Natural Park, a protected area that covers over 800 hectares of land.
The park has various flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species.
Visitors to Lagoa da Brejoeira can be lucky enough to spot some of these unique creatures, such as the Iberian wolf or the golden eagle.
All these features mentioned about the Lagoa da Brejoeira Lake cause it to be the best lake in Portugal.
7. The lakes of Cerveira
The best lakes in Portugal, called Lakes of Cerveira, are a group of interconnected freshwater lagoons located in the northwest of Portugal, near the Spanish border.
This natural reserve covers over 70 hectares of land and offers a unique ecosystem supporting various plant and animal species.
In addition to its natural beauty and biodiversity, the Lakes of Cerveira also have historical significance.
The area was once an essential route for Roman traders, and visitors can explore several historical landmarks nearby, such as the medieval castle of Cerveira.
8. Lagoa do Carvao
Lagoa do Carvão is a stunning volcanic crater lake in Portugal on the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores.
It is one of the largest lakes on the island, with a depth of over 100 meters.
One of the unique features of Lagoa do Carvão is its ever-changing colors, which are influenced by the surrounding weather and light conditions.
The lake’s colors can range from deep blue to green and even grey, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.
The surrounding vegetation adds to the beauty of the lake, with ferns, hydrangeas, and other plants growing in abundance.
9. Lagoas de Bertiandos
Lagoas de Bertiandos is a stunning natural reserve in Portugal’s Viana do Castelo district.
The Lagoas de Bertiandos Nature Reserve is home to several species of flora and fauna, including the rare black stork and the Iberian frog.
Visitors can explore the reserve on walking trails and observe various habitats, such as ponds, marshes, and forests.
The reserve also offers educational activities for children and adults, such as workshops and guided tours.
10.Poco Azul
In the Serra da Estrela region, Poco Azul is a stunning blue lake in Portugal with clear waters surrounded by varied vegetation.
The lake’s unique color comes from limestone bedrock and the sky’s reflection on the water’s surface.
Poco Azul is a natural wonder and has a rich history.
The lake was formed millions of years ago, and Neolithic and Bronze Age communities once inhabited its surroundings.
The region is home to several archaeological sites, and visitors can explore the area’s historical and cultural significance.
11. Lagoa das Furnas
Lagoa das Furnas is the last best lake in Portugal on our list, and this is a volcanic lake located on the island of São Miguel in the Azores.
The lake is known for its famous cozido, a traditional Portuguese stew cooked using the natural steam from the geysers around the lake.
One of the unique features of Lagoa das Furnas is the presence of geothermal activity around its shores.
Hot springs and fumaroles (openings in the Earth’s crust that emit steam and gases) are standard in the area and have led to the development of traditional Azorean dishes like Cozido das Furnas prepared by cooking meats and vegetables in a pot placed in a geothermal vent.
The lake is also famous for fishing, home to several freshwater fish species, like carp and trout.
12. Lagoa da Vela
The Portuguese lagoon of Lagoa da Vela is one of the country’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing in many people from nearby Figueira da Foz.
Individuals searching for excitement will find satisfaction in the various kayaking and paddling opportunities available at the lake.
At the same time, those who derive pleasure from immersing themselves in nature will be enthralled by the surrounding wilderness, which offers ample outdoor exploration on foot.
It is recommended to stay overnight in Figueira da Foz to fully appreciate the coastal environment and indulge in the region’s renowned seafood offerings prominently in local gastronomy.
13. Pateira de Fermentelos
Pateira de Fermentelos, sometimes known simply as “Pateira,” is a large natural lagoon that can be found within the geographical bounds of a triangular territory that encompasses the municipalities of gueda, Aveiro, and Oliveira do Bairro. Pateira is sometimes referred to as “Pateira.”
Notably, it holds the distinction of being the largest naturally occurring lake in Portugal as well as the entire Iberian Peninsula.
This best lake in Portugal presents an optimal setting for individuals who have an affinity for nature, as it offers awe-inspiring landscapes and a wide array of plant and animal species.
It is wise to consider finding accommodation in the neighboring city of Aveiro, famed for its unique canals, gorgeous, colorful boats, and various gastronomic scenes defined by abundant fresh seafood.
14. Alqueva
At the forefront of our compilation of Portugal’s finest and largest lakes within the country’s borders.
The Alqueva Reservoir, which gives rise to the Great Lake, presents an ideal setting for indulging in a few leisure days and relaxation within Portugal’s Alentejo region.
Constructed on the Guadiana River, the reservoir above is recognized as one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe.
Encompassing an area of 250 square kilometers, it extends across five municipalities within the Alentejo region.
The region presents many attractions, encompassing the castles of Juromenha, Alandroal, Terena, Monsaraz, and Portel, situated on the right bank.
Moreover, the left bank of the mentioned location showcases the unique viewpoints of Mourão and Moura, offering a sweeping and breathtaking sight of the glistening expanse of water.
15. Lagoa de Óbidos
The final item on our itinerary is a tidal saltwater lagoon located in the districts of Óbidos and Caldas da Rainha.
Lagoa de Óbidos is the last and best lake in Portugal, situated along the Atlantic Coast of Portugal, and is recognized as one of the country’s significant bodies of water.
Lagoa de Óbidos, one of the swimming lakes in the country, offers free admission, rendering it an excellent choice for engaging in aquatic activities with one’s family.
Select from various recreational pursuits, including avian observation, paddleboarding, sailboarding, boating, aquatic immersion, and angling.
An alternative option for accommodation is Óbidos, a neighboring town that provides an immersive encounter with Portuguese life and culture, characterized by delectable regional cuisine and visually captivating medieval fortifications.
The last word about best lakes in portugal
Portugal is home to some of Europe’s most stunning and diverse lakes.
From volcanic crater lakes to natural reserves, there is a lake for every type of traveler in Portugal.
Each lake offers a unique and unforgettable experience, from hiking and swimming to fishing and wildlife spotting.
Exploring the best lakes in Portugal is an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.
So, which of these lakes will you add to your travel list when visiting Portugal?
Will it be the Blue Well, the Seven Cities Lagoon, or another one of these beautiful lakes?
Could you share your thoughts with us?
