The best walks and hikes around Albufeira de Lakea Comprida
4.4
(862)
3,409
hikers
57
hikes
Hiking around Albufeira de Lakea Comprida offers trails through a landscape shaped by glacial erosion, featuring a large high-altitude reservoir and unique geological formations. The region is characterized by its wide depression of glacial origin, polished rock surfaces, and fields of erratic boulders. Located at approximately 1,600 meters, the area provides access to the largest water reservoir in the Serra da Estrela. This environment presents a variety of hiking opportunities across different terrains.
Best hiking trails around Albufeira de Lakea Comprida
- The most popular hiking route is Covão dos Conchos Trail, a 5.5 miles (8.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours 32 minutes to complete. This moderate route leads to the unique Covão dos Conchos spillway.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Covão dos Conchos and Lagoa Comprida Loop, a difficult 6.9 miles (11.1 km) path. This trail features five lagoons and the Covão dos Conchos spillway.
- Local hikers also love the Long Lake – Covão dos Conchos Trail loop from Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida, a 13.4 miles (21.5 km) trail leading through glacial landscapes and offering significant elevation gain, often completed in about 6 hours 6 minutes.
- Hiking around Albufeira de Lakea Comprida is defined by glacial valleys, high-altitude reservoirs, and unique rock formations. The network of trails offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in Albufeira de Lakea Comprida are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 800 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore Albufeira de Lakea Comprida's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.6
(174)
751
hikers
8.86km
02:32
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(100)
375
hikers
11.1km
03:22
200m
200m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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4.4
(19)
88
hikers
21.5km
06:06
470m
470m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(3)
30
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Loud croaking! Wonderful
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The way is arduous, but the destination is worth it.
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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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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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This reservoir, part of the Serra da Estrela hydroelectric system, is a popular tourist destination. Part of this attraction comes from 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. The conical spillway was little known until photos of the hole went viral in 2016. 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 is a stunning place to visit, not only for the combination of human intervention on nature, but also for the surrounding landscape. The trail from Lagoa Comprida leads here is truly beautiful in any season. Bring windbreaker and water.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida?
There are over 50 hiking trails around Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida, offering a wide range of options for different fitness levels. You'll find everything from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents through glacial landscapes.
What are the difficulty levels of the hiking trails in this region?
The trails around Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida cater to various abilities. You can find approximately 18 easy routes, 28 moderate trails, and 11 more difficult options, ensuring there's a suitable hike for almost everyone.
Are there any family-friendly hiking trails near Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. For an easier walk, consider the Long Lake loop from Albufeira do Covão do Forno, which is about 3.6 km long and takes around an hour. It's a great way to experience the high-altitude environment without a strenuous climb.
What unique natural features can I expect to see while hiking here?
The region is renowned for its unique glacial landscapes. You'll encounter polished rock surfaces, fields of erratic boulders transported by ancient glaciers, and the vast Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida itself, which is the largest water reservoir in the Serra da Estrela. A must-see is the intriguing Covão dos Conchos spillway, a bell-mouth shaped drainage structure.
What is the best time of year for hiking in Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida?
The best time for hiking is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and trails are clear. During winter, the area can experience snow and ice, making some routes more challenging and requiring alpine experience and proper gear.
What should I wear or bring when hiking in this high-altitude area?
Given the altitude of approximately 1,600 meters, weather conditions can change rapidly. It's advisable to bring layers, including a windbreaker, even on sunny days. Always carry sufficient water, as water sources can be scarce on higher sections. Good hiking boots are essential, and for some trails, especially beyond Covão dos Conchos, good orientation skills or a GPS device are recommended due to stone markers.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida?
Yes, many trails are designed as loops. A popular option is the Covão dos Conchos and Lagoa Comprida Loop, which is a challenging 11.1 km route featuring five lagoons and the famous spillway. For a longer adventure, consider the Long Lake – Covão dos Conchos Trail loop from Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida.
Where can I park when visiting Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida for a hike?
Parking is generally available near the Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida dam, which serves as a common starting point for many trails in the area. Specific parking instructions or designated areas might be signposted locally.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning mountain views, the unique glacial landscapes, and the fascinating Covão dos Conchos spillway. The variety of trails also allows for different experiences, from serene lakeside walks to more challenging mountain treks.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Generally, dogs are permitted on hiking trails in the Serra da Estrela region, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas or near livestock. Ensure you carry enough water for your dog, as natural water sources can be limited, particularly in drier months.
Can I visit Covão dos Conchos as part of a hike?
Absolutely! The Covão dos Conchos spillway is a major highlight and accessible via several trails. The Covão dos Conchos Trail is a moderate 8.9 km route specifically leading to this unique engineering marvel, taking about 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete.
Are there any easy routes for beginners or those looking for a short walk?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Covão do Curral Dam – Covão do Quelhas Lagoon loop from Nascente Rio Zêzere is an easy 5.3 km trail with moderate elevation gain, offering a pleasant walk through the landscape.
Most popular routes around Albufeira de Lakea Comprida
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