Seven Lakes – Flores Island, Azores

The Seven Lakes are located in the municipality of Lajes, on Flores Island, in the Azores archipelago. This name refers to the set of lakes that are housed within the caldera of one of the island’s primordial volcanoes. Despite its small size, Flores Island is wild and untouched in beauty.

This geological formation is extremely weathered by the strong winds and heavy rains of the Atlantic Ocean; however, it has not lost the charm and mystique of an active volcano trapped within a mountain. Its nature is highly preserved and minimally altered by humans.

Since 2009, it has been part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Its landscape, abundant in Laurissilva forest, with various lakes, each with its own characteristics, complements the breathtaking view of Flores Island.

The group of the Seven Lakes consists of: Lagoa Negra, Lagoa Branca, Lagoa Comprida, Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa da Lomba, Lagoa Funda, and Lagoa Seca, each named according to these specific features.

Since all are located on the same plateau, it is easy and practical to visit them by car.

Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida

Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida are situated side by side, creating a charming landscape. Their irregular shapes and distinct colors give the place a peculiar beauty, enchanting its visitors.

Lagoa Negra

Lagoa Negra has dark and deep waters, reaching depths of up to 100 meters. Its name comes from the color of its waters.

It is framed by high mountains, surrounded by sandy shores, and its banks are covered with colorful hydrangeas. It is the perfect place to connect with nature and relax.

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Additionally, there is a huge diversity of endemic plants surrounding it, such as laurel, heather, mountain cedar, queiro, sanguinho, and holly, among others.

Lagoa Comprida

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Lagoa Comprida, on the other hand, has an irregular shape and is close to Lagoa Branca, Lagoa Seca, and Lagoa Funda.

A strategically positioned waterfall above the lake makes its landscape even more lush. Its waters contrast with those of its neighbor, Lagoa Negra.

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Together, Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida create a landscape that looks like it has come out of a painting or a computer screen. Surrounded by mountains covered in greenery, the colorful flowers and a vast diversity of plants make this place perfect for a relaxing visit and communion with nature.

Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa Funda – Natural Reserve of Caldeiras Funda and Rasa

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The Natural Reserve of Caldeiras Funda and Rasa is located in Mosteiro, on Flores Island, Azores archipelago, and consists of Lagoa Funda, Lagoa Rasa, and the surrounding area.

Covering 425.94 hectares, it is situated in the interior of the island and is an Environmental Protection Area. From the road in the hills, both lakes can be seen, and the difference in altitude between them is incredible, resulting in surreal photos.

The lakes are surrounded by a lush green area, with mountains and many colorful flowers, including wild hydrangeas, which give a picturesque beauty to the entire Reserve.

Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa Funda are separated by a road, but they are at different altitudes, with Rasa located 530 meters above sea level, at the same height as the road, and Lagoa Funda at 360 meters.

Lagoa Rasa

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Lagoa Rasa is located in the central mountains of Flores Island. Nearby are Lagoa Funda and Miradouro do Bureiro.

The lake is at an altitude of about 600 meters and has easy access by car. Its depth is around 16 meters, with low banks populated by the endemic flora of the Azores and yellow-legged gulls, which stay there year-round.

Lagoa Funda

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Lagoa Funda is next to Lagoa Rasa, although it is at a lower altitude. Alongside this high-banked lake originates the Ribeira Funda.

This lake has a depth of 26.9 meters and features a waterfall. Its banks are home to a wide variety of endemic Azorean plants. A resident avifauna can also be observed, along with other species that stop only to rest. Among the main species are the yellow-legged gull, the great egret, the grey wagtail, the finch, and the blackbird, among others.

Lagoa Funda is part of an important hydrographic basin where various waterways converge.

In summary, the Natural Reserve of Caldeiras Funda and Rasa offers an unmissable lush landscape and should be among your options for excursions in the Azores. The Reserve has significant scientific value and national relevance.

Lagoa Branca

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Located at 650 meters altitude, it has easy access, and following the road south, you will find Lagoa Seca. It is also close to Lagoa Comprida and Lagoa Funda.

On its very gentle banks, you can observe some ducks, such as teal and plovers, waders, herons, and occasionally, rails, such as the American coot. On its western side, there is a bird shelter.

Lagoa da Lomba

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Lagoa da Lomba is located in the parish of Lomba (Lajes), 10 kilometers from Santa Cruz, near Pico do Touro and Boca da Vereda, at about 500 meters altitude. Being the smallest lake on the island, it has a depth of only 15 meters and in winter it is often surrounded by mist, giving it a peculiar and mysterious landscape.

Its edges, surrounded by hydrangeas, are often adorned with moss during the cold months of the year. At Lagoa da Lomba, you can also observe birds such as teals and American wigeons. It is also common to see small cattle grazing in the lush pastures nearby.

Lagoa da Lomba is easily accessible, being the most accessible on foot among the Seven Lakes.

Lagoa Seca

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Lagoa Seca is situated within the caldera of one of the island’s most important volcanoes. It is located at an altitude of 600 meters and retains water only in the autumn/winter. In this lake, you can see ducks, such as the Eurasian teal or the American black duck, snipe, and moorhen.

The lake is located in the Natural Reserve of Morro Alto and Pico da Sé.

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Flores Island may be small in size, but it is vast in natural riches and unique beauty. The Seven Lakes, surrounded by greenery, flowers, and lush landscapes, are a must-visit for anyone wanting to connect with nature and observe paradisiacal scenery.

See also: Places to visit on Flores Island >