Updated: August 27, 2024
Portugal has a highly diverse landscape that offers visitors a lot of variety, including a stunning coastline, sandy beaches, blue seas, and rugged mountains. Another attractive natural feature is the many bodies of water in Portugal. The enchanting lakes in the country provide serene beauty surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful places to explore when you are ready to get away from the city to soak up the surrounding nature.
You can find a selection of beautiful lakes and rivers on the Portuguese mainland as well as its islands. For the most part, not many tourists are aware of these overlooked gems where you can find a moment of peace and tranquility. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the breathtaking lakes and lagoons in Portugal that you should visit for an unforgettable experience. If you are a keen sailor, you will also find many world-class yacht marinas in Portugal up and down the country.
Lagoa da Vela
One of Portugal’s most popular lakes, Lagoa da Vela, is in proximity to the nearby town of Figueira da Foz.
Frequented by Portugal tourism enthusiasts seeking adventure, the lake is the perfect place to go kayaking and canoeing in the scenic dam and explore the biking and hiking trails surrounding the reservoir.
In the area surrounding Lagoa da Vela, you’ll find several hiking trails in the surrounding hills that are perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. Nearby, Figueira da Foz is a seaside resort in the Coimbra district.
You could spend a night there enjoying the fresh local fish, walking along the waterfront promenade, trying your luck at the casino, and, of course, visiting the beach.
There is also the opportunity to invest in Coimbra Portugal Real Estate and live surrounded by this area’s natural beauty.
Explore Our Ultimate Guide to Investing in Vacation Homes in Portugal
Lagoa do Fogo
The island of São Miguel is part of the Azores archipelago. This beautiful island is home to the spectacular Lagoa do Fogo, the Lagoon of Fire. As a protected area filled with lush vegetation and unique bird species, no construction is allowed in the areas surrounding the lake in an effort to preserve its natural beauty. However, you can invest in São Miguel Azores Real Estate located outside of the protected reservoir.
This crater lake formed after the eruption of a volcano many years ago. This volcanic activity caused a collapse and formed a crater, which is where the emerald lake now sits. The volcano’s magma chamber is located a few kilometers below this dazzling body of water. Today, the Lagoon of Fire is a popular spot for those interested in hiking in Portugal and bird watchers to visit.
Lagoa das Sete Cidades
Also in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores is the crater lake, Lagoa das Sete Cidades (Sete Cidades Lake), which is directly translated to Seven Cities Lake.
This hidden gem on the Azores island is found in the crater of a dormant volcano on São Miguel island. This twin lake (Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul) is one of the most beautiful lakes in the country as it is made up of two colors: One side is blue, while the other is green.
These eye-catching lakes are best enjoyed from the Vista do Rei viewpoint, which you can hike to.
The Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz is a chapel and beautiful neoclassical building in Vila Franca do Campo. It also features a viewpoint from which you can enjoy stunning views of the great lake.
Just ten kilometers from the lake lies Ponta Delgada, where you can enjoy some Gothic-style architecture and lively cafés and explore the area if you’re interested in buying property in Azores.
View Our Complete Guide to Buying Property in Portugal
Pateira de Fermentelos
Pateira de Fermentelos is the largest natural lake in Portugal and the Iberian Peninsula. You’ll find it on Portugal’s mainland, in a triangle between the Águeda, Aveiro, and Oliveira do Bairro municipalities. The lake surrounds it with a stunning variety of fauna and flora, making it a great spot for nature lovers to enjoy the landscape.
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the 56 species of birds that call this area home, including eagles, ducks, cranes, and spoonbills. The city of Aveiro is nearby, perfect for seeing the colorful boats and unique canals surrounded by beautifully tranquil Aveiro Portugal Real Estate options. You can also sample the city’s gastronomic scene and deliciously fresh seafood.
Lagoa de Óbidos
Last on our list is a tidal saltwater lagoon in the districts of Óbidos and Caldas da Rainha. Lagoa de Óbidos sits on the country’s Atlantic Coast, and it is one of Portugal’s most significant water sources. One of the swimming lakes in Portugal, Lagoa de Óbidos, is free to visit, making it an excellent option for some family fun in the water.
Choose from activities such as birdwatching, paddleboarding, sailboarding, boating, swimming, and fishing. Ensure that you pay attention to the swimming safety guidelines, regulations on watercraft and fishing, and rules pertaining to protected areas and restricted activities. You could also stay in Óbidos, a town nearby that offers a truly authentic experience of Portuguese life and culture through delicious local food and eye-catching medieval fortresses.
Goldcrest: Who We Are and How We Can Help You
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lakes in Portugal
What are the major lakes in Portugal?
Portugal is home to many fantastic lakes and lagoons. Some of the best lakes in Portugal include Lagoa da Vela, Lagoa de Óbidos, Pateira de Fermentelos, Lagoa do Fogo, and Lagoa das Sete Cidades.
Are there any lakes in Portugal?
Yes, there are many lakes in Portugal, both on the mainland and on the islands. You can find lakes in places like the Azores, Coimbra, São Miguel island, and on the Atlantic Coast.
How many lakes does Portugal have?
Portugal has many lakes, both on the mainland and on its islands. However, the majority of these bodies of water are native to the Azores. Many of the lakes on mainland Portugal are artificial due to damming, and most of the mainland’s natural lakes are located in Serra da Estrela.
Can you swim in lakes in Portugal?
Yes, there are swimming lakes in Portugal, such as Lagoa de Óbidos. When visiting the country’s lakes, it is important to check whether you are allowed to swim in them or not.
What is the main lake in Portugal?
There is no main lake in Portugal. However, the Alqueva Dam is the largest artificial lake in Portugal and Europe. Located in the Évora district of the Alentejo region in the south of Portugal, it features a 250 square kilometer wall surrounding the reservoir and more than 1,100 km of shores.
