Castelo de Bode Reservoir
A natural paradise in Ferreira do Zêzere, between Tomar and Abrantes
The Castelo de Bode dam is bathed by the river Zêzere and is between the municipalities of Tomar and Abrantes. Its purpose is to produce electricity, supply water and allow the practice of various water sports. It is over 60km long and is the second largest watershed in the country.
For many, Albufeira de Castelo de Bode is one of the most incredible places in the center of the country, perhaps because it hides secret river beaches and some call it “Blue Lake”. Ferreira do Zêzere, where the reservoir is located, is centrally located between Lisbon and Coimbra and easily seduces people who prefer the calm of the rivers to the agitation of the seas.
The privileged location, with pine forests and lots of nature, makes the reservoir a very pleasant place to practice leisure activities and water sports such as sailing, rowing, canoeing, windsurfing, kayaking, swimming and wakeboarding (which for those who don’t know is a kind of water ski). Surrounding the scenery of Lago Azul are maritime pines, strawberry trees, eucalyptus and olive trees.
There are numerous corners and river beaches where you can enjoy the clear waters of the river Zêzere. The river beaches of Aldeia do Mato (Abrantes), Castanheira (Ferreira do Zêzere) or Trízio (Sertã) are very famous.
“Lagoa Azul” or “Lago Azul” has the official designation of Praia Fluvial da Castanheira and in 2021 it was a finalist of the 7 Wonders within the Beaches of Portugal category. Despite not being a typical river beach, with sand and rest areas by the water, it also has a huge floating pool with an exclusive part for children, a lifeguard and platforms with plenty of space to put your towel and enjoy. the meal.
When visiting the Castelo de Bode Dam Albufeira you can also take the opportunity to visit Tomar on the same day. Ferreira do Zêzere and Ourém, with the wonderful Fragas de São Simão are other wonders of our region that you might want to know.