Covão dos Conchos - Portugal 2022 (from Above)

High up in the Serra da Estrela mountain range in Portugal, there lies a lake with an unusual man-made marvel. From a distance, an inverted bell-shaped drain known as Covao dos Conchos, constructed in 1955 as part of a hydroelectric dam, appears to be a perfectly symmetrical whirlpool, the mouth of a hungry sandworm, or even a portal to another point in time and space.
Located in Lagoa da Serra da Estrela, Covao dos Conchos was relatively obscure until photos of the foliage-lined drain began circulating on the internet in 2016. Now, it draws countless visitors into the Serra da Estrela mountains to witness a functional spillway that offers an otherworldly sight in an otherwise serene mountain lake.
The journey to Covao dos Conchos is an adventure in itself, traversing the gorgeous wilderness of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. The park is a treasure trove of sweeping views of the Dao Valley, stately boulders, and striking ravines, providing a captivating backdrop to the spillway.
For those eager to experience Covao dos Conchos firsthand, a hike of approximately 6 miles (about 10 kilometers) across steep and rugged terrain awaits. It’s essential to wear sturdy shoes and pack plenty of water and snacks, as the spillway is situated in a remote area far from cafes, stores, or rest areas.
For those who appreciate the harmonious blend of nature’s splendor and human creativity, Covao dos Conchos is an unmissable destination. In the wake of a demanding hike, it is easy to spend hours admiring the spillway, with many locals likening it to an all-seeing eye. Covao dos Conchos truly represents a perfect synthesis of stunning natural beauty and awe-inspiring human ingenuity.
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The spillway was built in 1955 with the aim of diverting water from Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida. It is a part of a hydro-electric dam system of Serra da Estrela. The conical spillway was little-known until photos of the hole went viral in 2016. Over the last 60 years moss and foliage has grown onto the mouth of the funnel, creating an eye-catching sight. It has a height of 4.6 meters and has a circumference of 48 meters. The tunnel that collects the water is 1,519 meters long.
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