Caniçada Reservoir
Albufeira da Caniçada
A large reservoir where the Cávado and Gerês rivers meet, with shores for beaches, jetties, paddling, boat rental and water sports.
The Caniçada Reservoir was formed in the 1950s by damming the Cávado River. Its winding waters reach into the foot of the Gerês mountains, making it the gateway into the national park from Braga. Along the shores around Rio Caldo and the mouth of the Gerês River are beaches, jetties and several water sports centres. There you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and electric boats, or take part in motorboat activities. The lakeside also has a Pousada (Portugal's state-run inn) and several resort hotels. Summer weekends are a popular time for locals to swim and picnic. The Pedra Bela Viewpoint offers a full view of the reservoir. Prices and seasons for water activities vary by operator, and most close in winter.
Opening hours
all day; water activities mostly May–Oct
Nearby sights
- Pedra Bela Viewpoint
- Vila do Gerês & Thermal Spa
- Junceda Viewpoint
- Tahiti Waterfall (Fecha de Barjas)
- Vilarinho da Furna
- Arado Waterfall
- Albergaria Forest
- Geira Roman Road