Paul Lagoon – Pico Island

The Paul Lagoon is located in the parish of Ribeirinha, municipality of Lajes do Pico, on the Pico Island. The lagoon sits at an altitude of about 800 meters and is part of the Partial Natural Forest Reserve of Caveiro.

Situated inland and approximately 10 kilometers from Lajes do Pico, Paul Lagoon, along with the Caiado, Rosado, and Ilhéu lagoons, forms a stunning collection of lagoons that are of great interest to those wanting to explore the natural monuments of Pico Island.

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History

In the past, it was at Paul Lagoon that local women would wash their clothes. This was a social event, performed in a festive atmosphere filled with joy.

Due to its considerable altitude, the lagoon causes condensation on its slopes, significantly contributing to the maintenance of the water table. Fog is also common at Paul Lagoon, giving it a mysterious and unique beauty.

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The lagoon is surrounded by lush greenery, home to a rich fauna and an excellent spot for observing various bird species. The road leading to the lagoons has a great altitude, offering beautiful views of Pico Island’s landscapes.

In summer, it is common for the water level to decrease significantly.

(C) José Luís Ávila Silveira/Pedro Noronha e Costa[/caption>

Birdwatching

In the green surroundings of Paul Lagoon, with its pastures filled with marshes, reeds, and groves of cedar and broom, it is one of the best places on the island for observing bird species.

Common species in the lagoon include the blackbird, white wagtail, water rail, and the Azorean chaffinch. Rare birds that can be spotted include the American teal, blue-winged teal, American golden plover, collarless sandpiper, Wilson’s snipe, lesser yellowlegs, and the red-necked phalarope.

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Paul Lagoon is a must-stop location for those wanting to connect with the almost wild nature of Pico Island. Surrounded by a long range of volcanic hills, with lush green fields and the sounds of birds, it is the perfect place to find moments of tranquility and communion with nature.

The best time to observe the resident species at Paul Lagoon is from March to July. The rarer migratory species can be found at the lagoon from October to March.

Other species that can also be observed in the lagoon include the American teal, golden plover, black kite, green-legged, Azorean stonechat, and the canary.

• For more information about Birdwatching at Paul Lagoon, click here.

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Curiosities

Recently, Paul Lagoon received an investment of over 200,000 euros, benefiting agriculture and enhancing water storage capacity in the municipality of Lajes do Pico. In the region around the lagoon, there are approximately 27,000 animals, mostly birds, that depend on Paul Lagoon for survival.

Location on the Map

When planning your trip to the Mountain Island, be sure to include the beautiful lagoons of the Partial Natural Forest Reserve of Caveiro in your itinerary.