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Louredo

Top 8 Lakes around Louredo

Lakes around Louredo, particularly in Vieira do Minho, are situated at the foothills of the Cabreira mountain range, where the Cávado River meets the Caniçada Reservoir, directly opposite the Gerês mountain. This region is characterized by its significant natural water features and mountainous landscape. The area offers diverse aquatic environments, from large reservoirs to natural river pools. It serves as a gateway to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, providing a blend of natural beauty and opportunities for water-based activities.

Best lakes around Louredo

  • The most popular lakes area is View from Miradouro da Pedra Bela overlooking the Rio Gerês reservoir, a viewpoint that offers a wide perspective of the Rio Gerês reservoir. This location is frequently visited within the Peneda-Gerês National Park.
  • Another must-see spot is Blue Pool, a natural monument known for its clear and cool natural swimming pool. Visitors can enjoy swimming in its waters, which are part of a varied hiking route.
  • Visitors also love Caniçada Dam, a man-made monument that dams the Cávado River and its tributary Rio Gerês, forming a large reservoir. This impressive structure, built in 1955, features two bridges and is located near the Peneda-Gerês National Park.
  • Louredo is known for its reservoirs, river beaches, and natural pools. The region offers a variety of water bodies, from large dammed lakes suitable for water sports to smaller, more secluded river spots for swimming.
  • The lakes around Louredo are appreciated by the komoot community, with 121 upvotes and 42 photos shared across various highlights.

Last updated: July 3, 2026

Blue Pool

Highlight • Natural Monument

It is a very varied hike that is a lot of fun! In between there are always rocky passages and the absolute highlight is of course Poço Azul - make sure you bring your swimsuit!

If the parking spaces are occupied you can follow the hiking trail over the small bridge. In the following bend there is another parking lot.

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Caniçada Dam

Highlight • Monument

The Caniçada Dam (Portuguese: Barragem da Caniçada) is located in the Northern region of Portugal in the Braga district near the municipality of Caniçada. It dams up the Cávado River and its tributary Rio Gerês to form a four-armed reservoir (port. Albufeira (da Barragem) da Caniçada). In the middle of the reservoir, near the point where the Rio Gerês originally flowed into the Rio Cávado, the lake is bridged by two bridges. To the north of the reservoir is the Peneda-Gerês National Park and part of the lake area belongs to the national park. The city of Braga is located about 15 km southwest of the Caniçada dam. Upstream, the next hydroelectric power station on the Cávado is the Salamonde dam.

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Also known as Praia de Alqueirão. Perhaps the best developed beach in the nature reserve of Peneda-Gerês. Surrounded by pure granite ridges that extend from Braga to almost Chaves in the northeast (almost 100 km), the water is used here several times: from here, Portugal draws a significant amount of its energy through a series of hydroelectric power plants and bathing facilities the cities in northern Portugal. 25 minutes from Braga. From year to year, the bathroom is upgraded more and more; There are water castles for the children, jet ski rental, pedal boats, and also the lifeguards are on site. Around this point there are many challenging tours for hikers and cyclists - there you get to 30 km fast times to 1400 vertical meters.

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Green Pool

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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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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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Tips from the Community

R◡* Araújo
September 19, 2025, Poço Verde

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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Dam with a fantastic view, and also provides quick access to both banks...

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ETienne
February 6, 2024, Poço Azul

Beautiful small creek.

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Andreas
February 4, 2024, Poço Azul

The hike begins at the Cascada do Arado. From there it's just under two hours with a few photo breaks. We were there alone in the morning. The path is not signposted, good for those who have Komoot.

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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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The Caniçada Dam (Portuguese: Barragem da Caniçada) is located in the Northern region of Portugal in the Braga district near the municipality of Caniçada. It dams up the Cávado River and its tributary Rio Gerês to form a four-armed reservoir (port. Albufeira (da Barragem) da Caniçada). In the middle of the reservoir, near the point where the Rio Gerês originally flowed into the Rio Cávado, the lake is bridged by two bridges. To the north of the reservoir is the Peneda-Gerês National Park and part of the lake area belongs to the national park. The city of Braga is located about 15 km southwest of the Caniçada dam. Upstream, the next hydroelectric power station on the Cávado is the Salamonde dam.

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The highlight, what you have to have seen... the way there is worth twice... because you can refresh yourself in this small natural pool. It's also deep enough for cliff jumps.

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Wonderfully clean natural pool that invites you to swim 😊

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best lakes for swimming around Louredo?

For a refreshing swim, the Blue Pool is a natural monument known for its clear, cool waters, perfect for a dip after a hike. The Caniçada Reservoir also offers several river beaches, such as Alqueirão Beach, which is well-developed and family-friendly. The Cávado River also features natural lagoons downstream from the Caniçada Dam, providing less touristy spots for summer swimming.

Are there family-friendly activities at the lakes near Louredo?

Yes, the Caniçada Reservoir is ideal for families. Alqueirão Beach, for example, is a developed river beach with amenities and water activities suitable for children. The calm waters of the reservoir are also great for beginner-friendly water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddling. Additionally, the View from Miradouro da Pedra Bela offers stunning views that are accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

What kind of water sports can I do on the lakes around Louredo?

The Caniçada Reservoir is a prime location for water sports. You can enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddling (SUP), and boat rides on its clear, calm waters. These activities are suitable for all skill levels, including beginners and families. The clean waters of the Cávado River are also excellent for canoeing and kayaking.

What natural features can I explore near Louredo's lakes?

The region boasts diverse natural beauty. You can explore the vast Caniçada Reservoir with its mountain backdrop, the pristine Blue Pool, and the dynamic Cávado River. The area is also a gateway to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, offering waterfalls, lush greenery, and the famous 'Seven Lagoons' (Sete Lagoas) further within the park.

Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Louredo?

Absolutely. The area around Louredo, particularly near the Caniçada Reservoir and Cávado River, offers numerous hiking opportunities. The Blue Pool is part of a varied hiking route. For more extensive options, you can find various trails in the nearby Peneda-Gerês National Park. Komoot offers dedicated guides for Hiking around Louredo and Mountain Hikes around Louredo, featuring routes like the 'View of Cascata do Arado – Blue Pool loop'.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Louredo?

The lakes around Louredo are particularly enjoyable during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the water temperatures are pleasant for swimming and water sports. This period also offers ideal conditions for hiking and exploring the surrounding natural landscapes.

Can I find scenic viewpoints overlooking the lakes?

Yes, the region is known for its stunning vistas. The View from Miradouro da Pedra Bela is a popular vantage point offering a wide perspective of the Rio Gerês reservoir within the Peneda-Gerês National Park. The Caniçada Dam itself also provides fantastic views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains.

What is the Caniçada Dam and its significance?

The Caniçada Dam is an impressive man-made structure built in 1955 on the Cávado River, where it meets its tributary Rio Gerês. It forms the large Caniçada Reservoir, which is a major hub for water activities and a significant source of hydroelectric power. The dam is located near the Peneda-Gerês National Park and features two bridges crossing the reservoir.

Are there opportunities for mountain biking near the lakes?

Yes, the mountainous terrain around Louredo and its lakes provides excellent opportunities for mountain biking. Komoot offers a dedicated guide for MTB Trails around Louredo, featuring routes like the 'Campo do Gerês – Bridge over the Cávado River loop' and the 'Turio Wooden Bridge loop'.

What makes the Lourêdo River in Vale do Lourêdo unique?

The Lourêdo River, located in the Vale do Lourêdo in Ribeira de Pena, is known for its remarkable ecological richness. This valley is characterized by native forests and diverse plant and animal species, forming an important ecological corridor. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers, offering opportunities for environmental education and walking trails like 'The Fox Trail' (Trilho da Raposa).

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Louredo?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, especially the clear waters and mountain backdrops. The opportunity for refreshing swims in spots like the Blue Pool and the variety of water sports on the Caniçada Reservoir are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the combination of active outdoor pursuits with serene natural relaxation, often within the proximity of the Peneda-Gerês National Park.

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

Terras De BouroCampo Do GerêsVilar Da VeigaCarvalheiraCovideVieira Do MinhoRio CaldoRuivãesBrufeChamoimSalamondeVentosaPinheiroEira VedraVentosa e Ventosa e Ventosa e CovaCantelãesCaniçadaCibõesChorense e Chorense e Chorense e MonteVilarVieira Do MinhoTabuaçasAmaresMosteiroCamposSoengasParada Do BouroValdosendeBouro (Santa Maria)Póvoa De LanhosoGondorizChorenseVilar Do ChãoAnjos

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