Best lakes around Campos offers a diverse landscape characterized by natural monuments, waterfalls, and serene water bodies. This region provides opportunities for exploring natural pools and lagoons, often accessible via hiking trails. The area's geography includes features like rock-carved pools and streams feeding waterfalls, creating distinct aquatic environments. Visitors can find a variety of natural attractions, from clear swimming spots to scenic viewpoints.
Last updated: June 19, 2026
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Cela Cavalos Waterfall, or Cela de Cavalos, is a paradisiacal waterfall located in the municipality of Montalegre, in the Peneda-Gerês National Park. With crystal-clear waters, it's a perfect spot for summer swimming, hiking, and nature contemplation. The main access point is from the village of Cela.
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Poço Verde de Fafião is a stunning lagoon in the Peneda-Gerês National Park, known for its crystal-clear waters and accessible trails that lead to a true natural paradise.
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view of the Saltadouro Bridge, the bridge that connects Salamonde and Ruivães A fantastic view.
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One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the National Park, the Cela Cavalos Waterfall is fed by the crystal clear waters of the Cavadas and Cela Cavalos streams and, in addition to the striking waterfall that forms a large natural pool, it also has a beautiful lagoon of emerald green water hidden at the top of the waterfall.
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The Cela Cavalos waterfall is fed by the crystal clear waters of the Cavadas and Cela Cavalos streams and, in addition to the striking waterfall that forms an irresistible natural pool, it also has a delightful lagoon with emerald green water hidden above the waterfall. The landscape is disarmingly beautiful! To get there, you have to walk and sometimes climb - about 3 km on the way there and 1.5 km on the way back. You are rewarded with absolute peace and an incomparable panorama, to which the ruins of the two old mills contribute.
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The 7 Gerês lagoons are a small natural wonder and the path that leads to them is beautiful. On the way it is possible to visit a Fojo do Lobo (an old structure used for wolf hunting) and hike along an old levada. The 7 natural pools that make up Sete Lagoas were naturally carved into the rock by erosion. They lie below a dam that supplies the surrounding villages with electricity.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons), known for its seven natural pools carved into rock. Another favorite is Blue Pool, a natural monument with clear, cold water perfect for a refreshing dip. The Cela Cavalos Waterfall also features a striking natural pool and a delightful emerald lagoon above it.
Yes, the region offers several excellent swimming spots. Blue Pool is a popular natural swimming pool with wonderfully clear and cold water. The Cela Cavalos Waterfall forms an irresistible natural pool, and above it, you'll find an emerald lagoon. Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons) also features multiple natural pools ideal for a refreshing dip.
The lakes around Campos are often part of varied hiking experiences. For instance, the path to Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons) is described as beautiful, allowing visits to an old wolf hunting structure and a levada. The hike to Blue Pool involves rocky passages, making it a fun and varied trek. To reach Cela Cavalos Waterfall, you'll undertake a hike of about 3 km on the way there, sometimes involving climbing, rewarding you with absolute peace and panoramic views.
While many trails involve varied terrain, some routes offer easier sections. For example, the 'Trail to Pincães Waterfall' offers an easy 2.9 km loop from Cabril, which could be a good option for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous walk near the water features. You can find more details on hiking options at Hiking around Campos.
Given the varied terrain and opportunities for swimming, it's recommended to pack a swimsuit, sturdy hiking shoes for rocky passages, and appropriate clothing for hiking. Many visitors also suggest bringing a camera to capture the disarming beauty of the landscapes, especially at spots like Cela Cavalos Waterfall.
Visitors particularly appreciate the clear, cold waters for swimming, the varied and fun hiking experiences, and the serene natural beauty. The absolute peace and incomparable panoramas, especially after a hike to places like Cela Cavalos Waterfall, are frequently highlighted. The unique geological formations, such as the rock-carved pools of Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons), also draw significant admiration.
Yes, there are several cycling routes in the broader Campos region that may pass near or offer views of water bodies. For road cycling, you can explore routes like the 'View of the National Park – Venda Nova Dam loop'. For touring bicycles, consider the 'Caniçada Reservoir – Fafião Wolf loop'. More information on cycling routes can be found at Road Cycling Routes around Campos and Cycling around Campos.
Beyond the lakes and natural pools, the region is characterized by diverse natural monuments, waterfalls, and streams. You'll encounter rock-carved pools, such as those at Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons), and impressive waterfalls like Cela Cavalos Waterfall. The landscape often includes rocky passages, riverbeds, and lush natural surroundings, offering scenic viewpoints like the View of Ponte Saltadouro.
For Blue Pool, there are parking spaces available. If the initial parking spots are occupied, you can follow the hiking trail over a small bridge, and another parking lot is usually found in the following bend. For other locations, parking availability can vary, so it's advisable to check specific route details.
While popular spots like Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons) and Blue Pool can attract visitors, the emerald lagoon hidden above Cela Cavalos Waterfall offers 'absolute peace and an incomparable panorama' after a hike, suggesting it might be a more tranquil spot. Green Pool (Poço Verde de Fafião) is also a stunning lagoon known for its crystal-clear waters and accessible trails, offering a true natural paradise.
The natural pools and lakes, especially those with cold water like Blue Pool, are particularly inviting during warmer months when swimming is most enjoyable. Even in summer, the water can be quite cold, offering a refreshing experience. Hiking conditions are generally pleasant outside of extreme heat or heavy rain.


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