Lagoa do Congro, Azores, Portugal

5ToughMudderHero 5:00 PM Oct 30, 2019

Secluded, tough to get to, raw nature
The lake is signposted from the main road, but the single lane towards the lake is gravel and eroded, so not good to drive down unless you have a good car. We parked on the road opposite the turning and that was fine. There's a main path down to the lake however we took the secluded path that breaks off to the right. It's not signposted but as you're walking towards the lake, there's an opening to a field with an abandoned building in it; if you walk to the right of that you'll see a footpath down. This takes you past Lagoa dos Nenufares, an overgrown feed lake for lagoa do Congro. You end up at the opposite side of the lake to the main viewpoint and it'll feel even more secluded. You can easily walk round to the main section where there's a built viewpoint and some other areas where you can get different perspectives of the lake. The walk back up is easy and doesn't take too long. You're not allowed to swim in the lake (there's one sign at the top). Wear good shoes as it's muddy and uneven.

5CruisersRus 5:00 PM Nov 27, 2015

This one has it all - adventure, wilderness, solitude and outstanding natural beauty
There are many outstanding trail hikes on San Miguel and this one is one of our favourites. Giant red cedars, dense underbrush as well as dozens of other plant species in sizes that dazzle the imagination, are all found here. Combine that with a fascinating terrain that changes with every turn and elevation and you have the perfect 'Jurassic Park' like setting. It's not a tough walk and you will love the serenity when you reach the lake - Lagoa do Congra. Look for the posted sign 'Lagoa do Congro' (Lake Congro) just off EN4-2A and follow the dirt road in to the near end.