Best lakes around Mangualde Da Serra are situated within the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, a region known for its mountainous landscape and diverse aquatic features. This area features both natural lakes, often of glacial origin, and man-made reservoirs. These bodies of water provide varied landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 19, 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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Around Mangualde da Serra, you'll discover a mix of natural lakes, often of glacial origin, and man-made reservoirs. These bodies of water are primarily located within the Serra da Estrela Natural Park and offer diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities.
Yes, the Vale do Rossim Reservoir features a popular river beach. It's an artificial lake located at over 1,400 meters above sea level, providing a refreshing spot for swimming and relaxation, especially during warmer months.
Covão dos Conchos is an artificial lagoon known for its unique bell-mouth spillway, which transfers water to Long Lake. It's a popular hiking destination, and while the trail is generally considered easy, good footwear is recommended due to loose stones and uneven terrain. The spillway itself is a captivating visual spectacle.
The lakes are set within the stunning glacial landscape of the Serra da Estrela. You'll encounter wide glacial depressions, granite formations, and picturesque scenery. Long Lake, for instance, exhibits numerous glacial marks along its banks, making it a site of great geomorphological interest.
Yes, the Vale do Rossim Reservoir is considered family-friendly, particularly its river beach for swimming and relaxation. The area around Covão dos Conchos Trail is also listed as family-friendly, offering an accessible hike, though sturdy shoes are advisable for all ages.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, with trails like the one leading to Covão dos Conchos. There are also numerous routes for mountain biking, road cycling, and running. For example, you can find challenging MTB trails like the 'Serra da Estrela: Manteigas and Torre Loop' or scenic road cycling routes. Explore more options on the MTB Trails around Mangualde Da Serra, Road Cycling Routes around Mangualde Da Serra, and Running Trails around Mangualde Da Serra guide pages.
Yes, near the Vale do Rossim Reservoir, you'll find the Vale do Rossim River Beach Restaurant. It's conveniently located right on the lake and offers a place to eat and drink. The area also has accommodation options like the Vale do Rossim Eco Resort, which provides camping, yurts, or wooden cabins.
The warmer months are ideal for enjoying activities like swimming at the river beaches. However, the natural beauty of the Serra da Estrela, with its glacial landscapes, can be appreciated year-round, though some trails might be more challenging after heavy rain or in winter conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.
While Long Lake and Covão dos Conchos are popular, the region also features other beautiful spots like Lagoa do Peixão, described as a 'river jewel' within the glacial granite landscape. For a more secluded experience, the Hidden cascade at Poço do Inferno offers a natural pool, though it requires good footwear and sure-footedness to access.
Visitors frequently praise the magnificent landscapes, especially the stunning views of the glacial valleys and the unique natural formations like the Covão dos Conchos spillway. The opportunity for refreshing swims in the reservoirs and the variety of hiking trails are also highly appreciated. Many find the tranquility and natural splendor of the Serra da Estrela to be a highlight.
Yes, the trail to Covão dos Conchos is a very popular hike, often starting from Long Lake. This area is also a starting point for longer routes, including the '6 lakes hike'. For a moderate running trail, consider the 'Vale do Rossim Reservoir loop' which offers scenic views. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the Running Trails around Mangualde Da Serra guide.


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