The best traffic-free bike rides around Seia

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.

Both Piódão and Foz d'Égua are accessible by car. But it's worth hiking the trail that connects them. It takes about 45 minutes, downhill from Piódão to Foz d'Égua (remember that the return is a slight climb). It's worth crossing the restored suspension bridge in Foz d'Égua before returning to Piódão. The Foz d'Égua pool is a popular spot for a dip in its very cold waters. Dipping your feet in the icy water of the stream is always very pleasant after a hike, immersing yourself in nature. I did it and recommend it. 👍🥾

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.

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.

The other side is actually private property, so no transposing

Gouveia is a picturesque Portuguese town and municipality located in the district of Guarda, on the northern edge of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. With an elevated position that provides it with a mountain climate and picturesque views, Gouveia is considered one of the "gateways" to the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal. The town stands out for its rich historical and architectural heritage, with a charming old town characterized by narrow cobbled streets, traditional houses and monuments such as the Mother Church of São Pedro and the Paços do Concelho (Town Hall). Gouveia is also renowned for the production of the famous Queijo Serra da Estrela, a DOP sheep's cheese, and for its tradition of the Cão da Serra da Estrela dog breed. Its proximity to the Natural Park makes it an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the Serra.

Lagoa Comprida is the largest glacial lake in Serra da Estrela, Portugal, and one of the most iconic spots in the Natural Park. Its name, meaning "Long Lake," perfectly describes its elongated shape, nestled between the surrounding peaks. Originally a glacial lake, it was artificially enlarged with the construction of a dam in the early 20th century for hydroelectric power generation, becoming an important reservoir. Its crystalline waters reflect the sky and the rugged surrounding mountains, creating breathtaking views. It is a popular starting point for hikes and treks to other lagoons and peaks, and offers a sense of grandeur and serenity typical of alpine environments.

Nestled in the Açor mountains, near Piódão, the river beach of Foz d’Égua is an enchanted corner that comes alive in the summer. Where the Piódão and Chãs d’Égua streams meet, a natural pool is formed, surrounded by rustic bridges, old mills and shale everywhere.