Top 5 Lakes around Sandomil
Best lakes around Sandomil are found within the wider Serra da Estrela Natural Park, where Sandomil is situated. Sandomil itself is known for its Praia Fluvial de Sandomil, a river beach on the River Alva. This leisure spot offers clean, cool water for swimming, natural shade from trees, and facilities like picnic areas and sanitary facilities. A medieval bridge and a suspended metallic walkway add to the scenic charm of the area.
Best lakes around Sandomil
- The most popular lakes…
Last updated: June 19, 2026
Covão dos Conchos Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
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Long Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Poço da Broca de Serapitel
Highlight • Waterfall
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Trail to the Upper Lakes, Serra da Estrela Natural Park
Highlight • Trail
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Waterfall and natural swimming pool in Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela
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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 second half (from Covão dos Conchos) is impassable and in some places only possible with orientation using stone markers (stacks). Nevertheless, it's a beautiful hike with views.
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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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In May 2025, everything was still overgrown for a good 3 km up to the upper lakes. Definitely only recommended with long clothing.
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We walked this walk in October, on a beautiful day, after a few days of heavy rain. Due to the previous wet days, parts of the path were quite a challenge. Certainly to keep your feet dry. The advantage was that the water flowed nicely into the 'drain'. Beautiful sight and impressive. Due to the path of pebbles, boulders, unevenness, etc., it is advisable to wear good walking shoes. Take enough food and drink with you, as is always the advice. In sunny weather, protection from the sun is absolutely necessary. There is no protection from the sun during the walk. Walk calmly, enjoy the surroundings and let everything sink in.
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A beautiful walk, also suitable for a family with children. The gap to the power station is very special.
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Very interesting place. The hole in the lake, to get there you can take a 4K hike through this rugged environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water bodies can I find around Sandomil?
Sandomil is primarily known for its beautiful Praia Fluvial de Sandomil, a river beach on the pristine River Alva. The wider Serra da Estrela Natural Park, where Sandomil is situated, also features significant mountain water bodies such as the large reservoir Long Lake and the unique Covão dos Conchos Trail, which leads to a distinctive man-made funnel in a lake.
What is Praia Fluvial de Sandomil like for visitors?
The Praia Fluvial de Sandomil is an idyllic river beach on the River Alva, offering calm, clear, and cool waters perfect for swimming. It features abundant natural shade from plane trees and alders, a grassy area for sunbathing and picnics, and comprehensive facilities including changing rooms, sanitary facilities, a first-aid station, a playground, and a football field. Lifeguard supervision is available during peak summer months.
Are there any historical or scenic features near the river beach?
Yes, near Praia Fluvial de Sandomil, you'll find a picturesque medieval bridge located upstream from the bathing area. This bridge serves as both a functional crossing and a beautiful historical element. Additionally, a suspended metallic walkway offers unique views of the River Alva and its surroundings.
What are some popular lakes for hiking around Sandomil?
For hiking, the Covão dos Conchos Trail is a must-see, offering impressive landscapes leading to the unique man-made funnel. Another popular destination is Long Lake, the largest water reservoir in the Serra da Estrela, known for its visible glacial scars along its banks. You can find more hiking options in the area, including easy trails, by visiting the Easy hikes around Sandomil guide.
Can I swim in the lakes and rivers around Sandomil?
Yes, swimming is a popular activity. The Praia Fluvial de Sandomil on the River Alva offers clean, cool water with lifeguard supervision during summer. You can also find natural bathing pools, such as the one at Poço da Broca de Serapitel, a beautiful waterfall with a bathing spot in an idyllic setting.
Are there family-friendly options for visiting lakes near Sandomil?
Absolutely. The Praia Fluvial de Sandomil is highly family-friendly, with a playground, football field, and supervised swimming during summer. The Covão dos Conchos Trail is also categorized as family-friendly, offering an accessible natural monument for exploration.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Sandomil?
The summer months, particularly July and August, are ideal for visiting the river beaches like Praia Fluvial de Sandomil, as the water is cool and refreshing for swimming, and lifeguard supervision is available. For hiking and exploring the mountain lakes, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, though some trails might be challenging after heavy rain.
Are there any waterfalls to visit near Sandomil?
Yes, you can visit Poço da Broca de Serapitel, a beautiful waterfall with a natural bathing pool. Another notable spot is the Waterfall and natural swimming pool in Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela, which also offers a chance to swim.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
Beyond swimming and exploring the river beaches, the region around Sandomil offers excellent opportunities for hiking, road cycling, and mountain biking. You can find various routes and trails suitable for different skill levels. For more details, check out the Easy hikes around Sandomil, Road Cycling Routes around Sandomil, and MTB Trails around Sandomil guides.
What makes Covão dos Conchos unique?
Covão dos Conchos is unique for its striking man-made funnel, which directs water from a lake into a tunnel system. This impressive sight, combined with the surrounding glacial landscapes and the opportunity for a short swim in the dam's reservoir, makes it a memorable destination. Visitors often describe the views as magnificent, especially under a blue sky.
Where can I find natural shade and picnic areas around Sandomil's water bodies?
The Praia Fluvial de Sandomil is an excellent choice, as its banks are lined with dense plane trees and alders, providing abundant natural shade. It also features dedicated picnic areas complete with urban furniture, making it ideal for a relaxing day out.
Are there challenging hikes around the mountain lakes?
Yes, for those seeking more challenging routes, the Trail to the Upper Lakes, Serra da Estrela Natural Park is a challenging option. While it offers beautiful views, parts of the path can be overgrown and require good orientation and appropriate gear. The area around Long Lake also features paths with loose stones and uneven terrain, requiring good walking shoes.
What facilities are available at Praia Fluvial de Sandomil?
Praia Fluvial de Sandomil is well-equipped for a comfortable visit. It offers changing rooms, sanitary facilities, and a first-aid station. For recreation, there's a playground and a football field nearby. Picnic areas with urban furniture are also available, and during peak season, lifeguard supervision ensures a safer swimming experience.
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