Portugal boasts breathtaking natural beauty that never fails to fascinate tourists worldwide. The country’s rugged coastlines, towering cliffs, lush green forests, and serene rivers create a stunning landscape.
For those who long for a faraway travel adventure, why not explore the centre of the Earth? Covão dos Conchos might just take you there. This mystical waterhole in Lagoa da Serra da Estrela, Portugal looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.
However, don’t let your imagination run wild as the gaping hole doesn’t lead to another dimension. Instead, its magic is attributed to engineering. Covão dos Conchos is an artificial lake constructed in 1955 during the building of a nearby hydroelectric dam. Its vortex-like spillway collects water from Ribeira das Naves and diverts it to the Bayou Lagoon Long, providing fresh water to neighbouring communities.
Covão dos Conchos used to be a hidden gem, but thanks to drone footage uploaded on the internet, it’s no longer a secret. With a height of 4.6 meters and an opening circumference of 48 meters, it’s truly a sight to behold. However, what’s truly impressive is the tunnel that collects the water which spans an incredible 1519 meters in length.
The spillway looks like a beautiful part of nature with its cascading waterfalls and lush moss growing around its opening, blending in seamlessly with the environment.
To reach Covão dos Conchos, you must venture into the Serra da Estrela national park – an area that boasts the highest mountain range in Portugal. The site is located quite a distance from any major cities, so be prepared to embark on a hike in order to witness this incredible man-made spectacle.
Embark on an enjoyable 8.9-kilometer hike that begins at Lagoa Comprida’s car park. The entire trek is fairly level, simple to navigate, and should take roughly two hours to complete. For more information on the path, please click here. During the winter season, it is recommended that you bring comfortable footwear and warm attire since the lake can freeze.
