Best attractions and places to see around Sandomil include natural features and cultural sites within the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. The village is situated in the Alva River valley, characterized by green landscapes and a river beach. Sandomil offers a range of outdoor activities and points of interest that highlight its natural beauty.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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The Devil's Horns are a prominent granite rock formation with two horn-like points, located in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, near Lapa dos Dinheiros and Senhora do Desterro (not in Gerês, but in Seia, Portugal). They are the highlight of a famous circular hiking trail that follows a water channel and the Caniça stream, offering stunning landscapes, lagoons, and waterfalls. 👍🥾
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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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The Lapa dos Dinheiros river beach is in perfect harmony with nature. Located in the parish of Lapa dos Dinheiros, on the Caniça River, a right-bank tributary of the Alva River, this bathing area is nestled in a mountainous landscape dominated by the Lapa Souto (south of Lapa) and imposing granite outcrops. With clear water, very appealing for swimming, the beach boasts the award for accessible beach and has lifeguards and a bar available to visitors. The rugged terrain of the valley causes the river to form a succession of small waterfalls nearby. The Lapa Souto, in addition to its valuable collection of centuries-old chestnut trees, is also home to a high level of biodiversity. From the bridge, a pedestrian path leads to the Moura Hole and a viewpoint over the Caniça Waterfalls. The Buraco da Moura is a natural cave system created by the sliding and accumulation of large granite blocks, which formed a complex system of rooms and galleries. How to get there? Once in Seia, follow the EN231 to S. Romão. From there, continue uphill for about 5 km, toward Loriga/Lapa, until you find the sign for Lapa dos Dinheiros on the left. Once inside the town, simply follow the beach signs. Coordinates: 40º 23′ 07.0″ N / 7º 41′ 50.1″ W
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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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Caution: collapsed path (also aqueduct) 2.5 km from the start. Possible but dangerous passage.
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The enigmatic Devil's Horns rise from the granite, defying the sky with their six-metre height. Sculpted by erosion over the centuries, they earned this bold name thanks to their sharp and imposing profile. But the charm doesn't end there: around this unique formation, there are small crystal-clear lagoons and serene waterfalls, creating a true natural refuge that seems to have come straight out of a fantasy story.
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Nestled on the banks of the Caniça river, a tributary of the Alva river, this beach area is a haven in the middle of a mountainous landscape, where ancient chestnut trees and granite blocks shape the scenery. The crystal-clear, inviting water is perfect for a refreshing dip. The beach, which has been awarded the title of accessible, has lifeguards and a bar, making the experience even more enjoyable.
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Sandomil is rich in natural beauty, situated within the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. You can visit Long Lake, the largest glacial reservoir in the Serra da Estrela, known for its geomorphological significance. Another unique natural formation is Cornos do Diabo, six-meter-high granite formations surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons and waterfalls. The Alva River also offers picturesque landscapes with water mills and weirs.
Yes, Sandomil is known for its refreshing river beaches. The Sandomil River Beach itself is a great spot for leisure and swimming in clean waters from the Serra da Estrela mountains. Additionally, Lapa dos Dinheiros River Beach, located on the Caniça river, offers crystal-clear water, lifeguards, and a bar amidst a mountainous landscape with ancient chestnut trees and granite blocks. Praia Fluvial de Loriga is another option in the vicinity.
For hikers, the Covão dos Conchos Trail is a popular choice, described as easy with magnificent landscapes, leading to a water reservoir where a short swim is possible. Another option is the Aqueduct of the Caniça Route, which is a beautiful regional hiking trail (PR10) offering stunning scenery, though it requires good footing due to some climbing sections.
Many natural attractions around Sandomil are suitable for families. The Covão dos Conchos Trail is considered family-friendly, offering an easy walk with rewarding views. River beaches like Sandomil River Beach and Lapa dos Dinheiros River Beach provide safe swimming and leisure areas for all ages. The leisure park at Sandomil River Beach also adds to the family appeal.
While Sandomil itself has a charming historic center, nearby attractions include the Historical Village of Piódão, famous for its unique schist houses. In nearby Seia, you can explore the Museum of Bread (Museu do Pão) to learn about traditional bread-making, or the Toy Museum for a nostalgic experience. The Aproveitamento hidroelétrico de Lagoa Comprida also represents a significant historical engineering feat.
Visitors frequently praise the magnificent landscapes and the opportunity for refreshing dips in the water. For instance, the Covão dos Conchos Trail is loved for its views and the chance to swim in the dam's reservoir. The crystal-clear waters and natural settings of river beaches like Lapa dos Dinheiros River Beach are also highly appreciated for relaxation and enjoyment.
Yes, Lapa dos Dinheiros River Beach has been awarded the title of an accessible beach, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs. It features lifeguards and a bar, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience amidst the natural beauty.
The summer months are ideal for enjoying the river beaches and swimming. However, for hiking, spring and autumn offer more temperate weather, making trails like the Covão dos Conchos Trail more comfortable. Some trails, especially after heavy rain, can be challenging due to wet and uneven paths, so appropriate footwear is always recommended.
The Sandomil area offers a variety of cycling routes. For mountain biking, you can find routes like the 'Covão do Curral Lagoon – Lagoa Comprida Dam loop from Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida'. Road cyclists can explore options such as the 'Covão do Ferro Lagoon – Serra da Estrela loop from Seia'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the MTB Trails around Sandomil and Road Cycling Routes around Sandomil guides.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. A notable one is the 'Cornos do Diabo – Aqueduct of the Caniça Route loop from Lapa dos Dinheiros', which offers a challenging run through scenic landscapes. Other running loops are available from nearby towns like Oliveira do Hospital. For more options, refer to the Running Trails around Sandomil guide.
Given the varied terrain, especially on trails with scree or uneven paths, it is advisable to wear good walking shoes with strong ankle support. In sunny weather, protection from the sun is necessary as some trails offer no shade. If hiking after rain, be prepared for wet and potentially challenging conditions.
Yes, at Lapa dos Dinheiros River Beach, there is a bar available for visitors. While specific cafes at other natural monuments are not always present, the village of Sandomil and nearby towns offer various options for refreshments and meals.


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