Coal Lagoon

Category: Nature > Lagoon

District: Açores > Ponta Delgada > Arrifes

Location

Situated on the island of São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, Lagoa do Carvão is located in the municipality of Ponta Delgada, in the parish of Arrifes. This natural point of interest is found at an altitude of approximately 700 meters, offering a serene perspective over the Azorean landscape. Its distinct feature is its easy accessibility, as it differs from other similar formations on the island by being conveniently at road level, without requiring long uphill journeys to be reached.

Origin and Geological Environment

Lagoa do Carvão represents a remarkable example of the geological activity that shaped the island of São Miguel. This natural formation occupies a volcanic crater, a silent witness to the primordial forces that gave rise to the archipelago. Its shores are defined by the original walls of this ancient caldera, which over millennia have been sculpted and eroded, showing visible marks of the passage of time.

The immediate surroundings of this body of water are characterized by a lush and dense forest, typical of Macaronesian flora, which embraces the shores and contributes to an atmosphere of deep tranquility and natural beauty. The native vegetation creates an idyllic setting, where the predominant green is reflected in the calm waters.

Characteristics and Scenic Value

With an elongated shape, Lagoa do Carvão stretches for approximately one hundred meters in length and sixty meters in width, dimensions that make it inviting for a peaceful exploration on foot along its shores. The site invites visitors to pause and contemplate, allowing them to observe the diversity of Azorean nature and feel the quietness that emanates from the environment.

The harmony between the volcanic formation, the dense vegetation, and the water's surface creates a landscape of unique charm, where serenity is fully manifested. It is a space that inspires a connection with nature, offering an experience of calm and admiration for the natural richness of the Azores.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt