Covão do Conchos
Nestled within the stunning Serra da Estrela Natural Park in Portugal lies a hidden gem – the Covão do Conchos. This beautiful and unique structure is a testament to human ingenuity and engineering, and it’s a must-see destination for anyone interested in the natural wonders of the world.
Covão do Conchos is a unique and awe-inspiring destination that should be on every traveler’s itinerary when visiting Portugal. Its impressive engineering, stunning natural setting, and challenging hike make it an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to experience the natural wonders of the world.
Whether you visit during the rainy season or the summer months, you’re sure to be amazed by this hidden gem in the heart of Serra da Estrela.
Covão do Conchos: A Hidden Gem in Portugal’s Serra da Estrela
Covão dos Conchos seems to be a natural masterpiece. Although, the tunnel was built back in 1955. It’s actually part of a hydroelectric dam system that was built then. The 1500-meter-long hole simply funnels water from the lake to the Lagoa Comprida dam at Flores Island.
But with adornments of moss and foliage around the entry to the watery tunnel, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was natural, if slightly otherworldly, attraction. In the middle of the lake is an opening of 4.6 meters with a circumference of 48 meters through which water free falls into a dam.
Covão do Conchos was constructed to divert water from the Ribeira das Naves river to the Lagoa Comprida reservoir.
The structure consists of a concrete tunnel that spans 1.5 km and is supported by arches that are 60 meters high. The tunnel itself is not accessible to the public, but visitors can admire its impressive architecture and stunning natural setting from a viewpoint located nearby.
Covão do Conchos is a unique and awe-inspiring destination that should be on every traveler’s itinerary when visiting Portugal. Its impressive engineering, stunning natural setting, and challenging hike make it an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to experience the natural wonders of the world.
Whether you visit during the rainy season or the summer months, you’re sure to be amazed by this hidden gem in the heart of Serra da Estrela.
The Best Time to Visit Covão do Conchos
The best time to visit Covão do Conchos is during the rainy season, which typically runs from November to March. This is when the water flows through the tunnel at its highest, creating a spectacular sight that is truly unforgettable.
However, visitors should exercise caution during this time, as the terrain can be slippery and dangerous.
As rule, during the summer months, the water flow through the tunnel is much lower, but the surrounding landscape is lush and green, making it an excellent time to explore this amazing natural scenery on foot.
Tourist information
Getting to Covão do Conchos
Getting to Covão do Conchos is an adventure in itself. The viewpoint is located about 8 km from the village of Sabugueiro, and the journey involves a steep and winding road that can be challenging to navigate. However, the effort is well worth it, as the view from the viewpoint is simply breathtaking.
What to Bring
Visitors to Covão do Conchos should be prepared for a moderately challenging hike to reach the viewpoint. The trail is about 4 km long and takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, and plenty of water are essential items to bring along.
If you are planning to visit Covão do Conchos, follow these recommendations:
- Bring walking shoes, preferably waterproof, some “snacks” and water
- Wear appropriate clothing for the cold and a waterproof warm jacket
- To avoid stepping on the ice, as it is very slippery
Winter weather can be particularly testing as the area becomes blanketed in snow and ice.