Best lakes around Verdelhos are primarily found within the village's significant water features, including the Dam of Verdelhos and its associated river beaches on the Beijames River. This mountain village, located in Portugal's Serra da Estrela region, is characterized by the lush, green landscapes of the Beijames Valley. The area offers natural settings for relaxation and recreation, integrated into the Serra da Estrela Natural Park.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Restaurant
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Verdelhos.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
1
0
Next to the Nave de Santo António, the Covão do Ferro or Padre Alfredo dam, inaugurated in 1956, uses a glacial cirque and collects water from the Alforfa stream. It was commissioned by Father Alfredo to supply electricity to the wool industry in Unhais da Serra. Unhais da Serra can be seen in the background.
2
0
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.
3
0
Thanks for sharing.🙏
1
0
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.
3
0
Hiking in the Serra da Estrela is always pleasant, with stunning scenery and spectacular trails. 👍
2
0
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 🍷 🤪.
2
1
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.
2
1
While Verdelhos doesn't have large natural lakes, its main aquatic attractions are the Dam of Verdelhos and the associated river beaches on the Beijames River. These spots offer beautiful natural settings for swimming and relaxation within the Beijames Valley.
Yes, you can visit the Covão dos Conchos Trail, a natural monument featuring a unique spillway that creates the illusion of a funnel in the water. It offers magnificent landscapes and views.
The warmer months are ideal for enjoying the river beaches and reservoirs for swimming and cooling off. However, the natural beauty of the Serra da Estrela region, with its diverse green hues, can be appreciated year-round, especially for hiking. Be aware that some paths, like the Covão dos Conchos Trail, can be challenging after heavy rain.
Yes, the river beaches on the Beijames River are popular for families to cool off and relax. Further afield, the Vale do Rossim Reservoir is also considered family-friendly, offering opportunities for strolls and summer swims.
The area around Verdelhos, integrated into the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, offers various hiking trails. You can explore paths like Abitureira, Aguilhão, Cabeça do Pato, and Sarnadas. For more specific routes, consider the MTB Trails around Verdelhos guide, which includes routes like the 'Poço do Inferno Waterfall – View of the Zêzere Valley loop'.
The Covão do Ferro Lake is situated at a higher altitude, offering cooler temperatures and notable views. It's a great vantage point to experience the Serra da Estrela.
Near the Vale do Rossim Reservoir, you'll find the Vale do Rossim River Beach Restaurant, which is conveniently located right on the lake. In Verdelhos village itself, you can find local establishments.
The terrain can vary. Trails like the Covão dos Conchos Trail are generally easy but may have areas of loose stones, requiring good footwear. Other trails, such as those leading to the Hidden cascade at Poço do Inferno, can be more challenging and require sure-footedness.
The river beaches on the Beijames River and the Vale do Rossim Reservoir are popular spots for swimming. The Hidden cascade at Poço do Inferno also features a natural pool that invites swimming, though access can be challenging.
The area is known for its stunning scenery within the Beijames Valley, surrounded by lush, verdant woods and forests. The landscape is characterized by a diverse palette of green hues, granite formations, and clear waters, especially around the dam and river beaches.
Yes, the region offers various cycling routes. You can find options for Gravel biking around Verdelhos and Road Cycling Routes around Verdelhos, with trails ranging from moderate to difficult, exploring the wider Serra da Estrela area.


Still not found your perfect lake around Verdelhos? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.