4.6
(174)
750
hikers
Covão dos Conchos Trail
02:32
8.86km
210m
Hiking
Hike the moderate 5.5-mile Covão dos Conchos Trail in Serra da Estrela to see the unique bell-mouth spillway and stunning mountain views.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
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Waypoints
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73 m
Long Lake
Highlight • Lake
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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491 m
Covão dos Conchos Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
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4.45 km
Covão dos Conchos
Highlight • Monument
Interestingly, in the driest summers, the water level of the lake can drop so much that the tunnel becomes visible, as if patiently awaiting the next flood.
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8.86 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.86 km
820 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
5.61 km
3.05 km
161 m
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Elevation
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Saturday 9 May
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike the Covão dos Conchos Trail?
The round trip typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete at a steady pace. The route is approximately 8.86 kilometers (about 5.5 miles) long.
What is the terrain like on the trail?
The trail is situated at around 1500 meters above sea level and features a dirt road with sections of loose stones and rocky patches. While largely flat, there's a gentle ascent to the highest point before descending to Covão dos Conchos. Good, sturdy shoes are highly recommended due to the uneven surfaces.
Is the Covão dos Conchos Trail suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, it's generally considered an easy to moderate hike, suitable for most fitness levels, including families with children. However, some sections with loose stones require sure-footedness.
What can I see along the route?
The main attraction is the unique bell-shaped spillway of Covão dos Conchos. You'll also pass by Long Lake (Lagoa Comprida), where the trail often starts, and enjoy impressive mountain landscapes with grey granite boulders and glacial lakes.
Where does the trail start and is there parking available?
The trail typically starts from Lagoa Comprida. There is parking available at Lagoa Comprida, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.
What is the best time of year to visit Covão dos Conchos?
The trail offers breathtaking landscapes year-round. During warmer months, you'll experience vast open skies and diverse vegetation. In winter, the area can be covered in snow, offering a different, striking experience, but accessibility might be limited due to weather conditions.
Is the Covão dos Conchos Trail dog-friendly?
While dogs are generally allowed in Serra da Estrela Natural Park, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially given the presence of wildlife and other hikers. Ensure your dog is comfortable with rocky terrain.
Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for the trail or Serra da Estrela Natural Park?
There are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Covão dos Conchos Trail or to access Serra da Estrela Natural Park. However, always respect local regulations and guidelines for protected areas.
Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the [CIMA PR07] Torre * San Romao and the [CIMA PR07] Torre * Seia trails.
What should I bring for the hike?
Given the exposed nature of the trail with very little shade, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and sturdy hiking shoes. Layers of clothing are also recommended as mountain weather can change quickly.
Is the trail a loop or an out-and-back route?
The Covão dos Conchos Trail is typically an out-and-back route, starting and ending at Lagoa Comprida. You hike to the Covão dos Conchos spillway and then return the same way.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
A wonderful mountain hike ⛰️ in the Serra da Estrella, where I had already been in winter, but I wasn't familiar with the trail that leads from Lagoa Comprida, located at about 1,600 meters above sea level—the largest reservoir in the Serra da Estrela mountain range ⛰️⛰️⛰️, used for hydroelectric power generation—to the COVÃO DOS CONCHOS. The trail is wonderful, and the site is surreal, even though it was created by human intervention. It is a reservoir, part of the Serra da Estrela hydroelectric system. It is a funnel-shaped drainage structure that allows water to flow from this body of water to Lagoa Comprida. The very large conical spillway in the middle of the lake was built in 1955 to divert water from Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida. See the description for more information. The trail 👣👣👣 that leads here from Lagoa Comprida (about 9 km round trip) is truly fantastic, to be enjoyed in any season. ☀️❄️ Bring a shell or windbreaker even in summer because it can be very windy and obviously wet. 💧🚰 The only shame is that the lake water wasn't high enough to enter the area and create the waterfalls, as you can see in this beautiful video. https://youtu.be/m_7od_ZWNJ4?si=tM_ejCTqRup5QOAe
