Top 5 Lakes around Canhas

While Canhas itself doesn't have large natural lakes, the surrounding region of Madeira offers a variety of beautiful water features. These include picturesque mountain lakes, lagoons formed by waterfalls, and unique volcanic pools along the coast. The area is particularly known for its stunning levada walks that lead to these water bodies.

Visitors frequently enjoy several captivating spots. Dona Beja Lagoon Waterfall is a particularly beautiful place for a cool down or a picnic. Another must-see is Ribeira Grande Waterfall, an obligatory stopping point on the PR6.3 route where you can dip your feet in refreshing water. Viento Lagoon, with its almost circular, crystal-clear lake and long waterfall, is also highly appreciated for its views and less crowded swimming opportunities.

Yes, many of these water features are accessible via hiking trails, particularly the famous levada walks. For example, the Dona Beja Lagoon Waterfall is at the end of the Levada do Alecrim. The Ribeira Grande Waterfall is on the PR6.3 route. You can find various routes, including those leading to waterfalls and lagoons, in the Mountain Hikes around Canhas guide, with options ranging from moderate to difficult.

Yes, some of these natural spots offer opportunities for swimming. Viento Lagoon is noted as a beautiful and less crowded spot suitable for swimming. The Dona Beja Lagoon Waterfall is also described as good for a cool down. Additionally, Madeira features natural volcanic pools in coastal areas like Porto Moniz and Seixal, which are excellent for swimming. You can find more information about these unique pools at visitmadeira.com.

Madeira enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for visiting most seasons. However, for hiking to waterfalls and lagoons, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) often offer pleasant temperatures and lush scenery. Summer can be warm, ideal for swimming, while winter might bring more rain, enhancing the waterfalls but making some trails slippery.

While many natural trails can be challenging, some levada walks are suitable for families. For example, the area around Dona Beja Lagoon Waterfall is described as a dream place to enjoy and refresh, which can be a pleasant stop for families. When planning, look for trails marked as 'easy' in guides like Easy hikes around Canhas, though direct access to natural lagoons might still involve some uneven terrain.

The Paúl da Serra plateau, where Paúl da Serra Lake is located, is a unique and expansive area. It's characterized by small lagoons, streams, and distinctive rock formations shaped by erosion. Hiking routes through this region allow visitors to discover hidden waterfalls and surreal landscapes, offering a different kind of aquatic experience compared to the more secluded waterfall lagoons.

The difficulty varies. Some trails, like the one to Viento Lagoon, involve some climbing and can be more challenging. Many levada walks are generally moderate, but can have steep sections or narrow paths. For instance, routes like the 'Lagoa do Vento Waterfall – 25 Fontes Waterfall loop' are rated as difficult. Always check the specific route details and difficulty ratings before heading out.

Beyond the natural lagoons, Madeira boasts other impressive water features. In Funchal, the Santa Catarina Park Lagoon offers beautiful fountains and a relaxing green space. The Jardim Tropical Monte Palace features the picturesque Poço dos Desejos ('Well of Wishes'), home to flamingos, koi carp, and swans. Don't miss the natural volcanic pools in coastal towns like Porto Moniz and Seixal, which provide unique seawater swimming experiences.

Yes, there are. For instance, the Levada Reservoir (1970) is a notable man-made lake where a small stream falls into a basin, becoming part of the levada system. It's an impressive example of how water is channeled from the mountains to the valleys for use.

Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of these spots. Many appreciate the opportunity to cool down or picnic by the water, as highlighted for Dona Beja Lagoon Waterfall. The stunning views, photographic opportunities, and the sense of discovery on less crowded trails, like the one to Viento Lagoon, are also frequently mentioned.