Best lakes around Cibões are situated within the Peneda-Gerês National Park in Portugal, a region known for its natural water bodies and mountainous terrain. The area features several reservoirs and natural swimming spots, offering diverse outdoor experiences. These locations provide opportunities for enjoying tranquil natural settings and scenic vistas. Cibões serves as a base for exploring these water features within the park's landscape.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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The dam dams the River Homem into a reservoir. The dam and the associated reservoir are located on the edge of the Peneda-Gerês National Park. About 1 km southeast of the dam is the municipality of Campo do Gerês. The project to build the dam began in 1966. The construction was completed in 1972. In addition to generating electricity, the dam also serves as flood protection.
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Miradouro da Pedra Bela - actually there are three viewpoints. We were completely alone up there shortly before sunset.
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Easy to reach smaller bathing pump. Rather something for younger children. Still so deep that you can even swim a few strokes in it. You can park directly on the main road on the hard shoulder.
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Beautiful reservoir with interesting vegetation around it. If you're already in the area anyway, you can do a little lap here.
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You can only see the reservoir from here if you climb on one of the stones. There are much better vantage points on the lake.
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From the popular vantage point you have a wonderful view of the Rio Gerês reservoir. This is one of the most visited places in Peneda-Gerês National Park.
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There are always views of the lake, but this is the most beautiful! Wonderful area!
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The region around Cibões, situated within the Peneda-Gerês National Park, features a variety of water bodies. You'll find large reservoirs like the Rio Gerês and Rio Homem reservoirs, as well as natural swimming spots and developed lake beaches. These range from tranquil natural settings to areas with recreational facilities.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Alqueirão Beach (Gerês beach) is particularly well-equipped, offering water castles for children, jet ski rentals, pedal boats, and lifeguards. The Natural swimming pool in Peneda-Gerês National Park is another easily accessible smaller bathing spot, ideal for younger children.
For breathtaking panoramic views, visit Miradouro da Pedra Bela, which offers expansive vistas of the Rio Gerês reservoir. It's one of the most visited locations in Peneda-Gerês National Park. Another scenic spot is the View of the Rio Homem Reservoir, providing beautiful perspectives of the lake.
The Vilarinho da Furna Dam and its reservoir are celebrated for their beautiful surroundings and interesting vegetation. Located on the edge of the Peneda-Gerês National Park, this reservoir was completed in 1972 and serves for electricity generation and flood protection, offering a tranquil natural setting.
The area around Cibões offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'View of the Rio Homem Reservoir – Campo do Gerês Roman Road loop'. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes such as the 'Gerês Granfondo Loop', and mountain biking trails like the 'Geira and Arrieiros Trail Loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the guides for Hiking around Cibões, Road Cycling Routes around Cibões, and MTB Trails around Cibões.
Yes, Alqueirão Beach (Gerês beach) is a well-developed spot within the Peneda-Gerês nature reserve. It offers excellent bathing facilities, including water castles for children, jet ski and pedal boat rentals, and lifeguards, making it a popular choice for water sports and relaxation.
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning natural beauty and the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. The panoramic views from viewpoints like Miradouro da Pedra Bela are highly praised, as are the tranquil settings of reservoirs and the refreshing natural swimming spots. The komoot community has shared over 10 photos and given more than 20 upvotes across various highlights in the area.
While specific 'easy walking trails' around individual lakes are not detailed, the region offers a range of hiking options. Many viewpoints are easily accessible, and the Natural swimming pool in Peneda-Gerês National Park can be reached directly from the main road, suggesting some areas are less strenuous to explore. For detailed trail information, consult the Hiking around Cibões guide.
The Peneda-Gerês National Park region, where Cibões is located, is generally pleasant during spring and autumn for hiking and exploring. Summer is ideal for swimming and water activities at spots like Alqueirão Beach, though it can be busier. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Yes, the Vilarinho da Furna Dam is a significant man-made structure completed in 1972, primarily for electricity generation and flood protection. Its construction created the Vilarinho da Furna Reservoir, which is now a prominent natural feature within the landscape.
Yes, the Natural swimming pool in Peneda-Gerês National Park offers an easily accessible smaller bathing spot suitable for swimming. While not explicitly 'wild' in the sense of being completely undeveloped, it provides a natural riverine swimming experience.


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