Paul Lagoon

Category: Nature > Lagoon

District: Açores > Lajes do Pico > Lajes do Pico

Location

Lagoa do Paul is located on the island of Pico, within the parish of Lajes do Pico, in the municipality of the same name. It is found in the island's interior, at an approximate altitude of 800 meters. This lagoon is set within the vast area of the Caveiro Partial Natural Forest Reserve, a testament to the Azorean commitment to nature preservation.

Its location gives it a sense of remoteness and almost untouched nature. It is also covered by important protected areas, such as the Natura 2000 Network, and is part of the Planalto da Achada Geosites, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

The Natural Surroundings

Lagoa do Paul is characterized by a predominantly green landscape, where the surrounding volcanic cones, pastures with small ponds, rush beds, and dense thickets of cedar and heather stand out. Its altitude contributes to the frequent occurrence of fog, which lends the lagoon a unique and sometimes mysterious atmosphere, enhancing the beauty of the place.

The condensation caused by the elevation is crucial for maintaining the lagoon's water level, ensuring the vitality of this ecosystem. In the summer, it is natural for the water volume to decrease considerably, slightly altering the surrounding landscape.

Biodiversity and Birdwatching

This natural environment is a sanctuary for rich fauna, making Lagoa do Paul an excellent spot for birdwatching. The presence of wet pastures, ponds, and dense vegetation creates ideal habitats for various resident and migratory species.

Among the most commonly sighted birds are the blackbird, the wagtail, and the Azores chaffinch, as well as others like the woodcock and the common snipe. Occasionally, rarer species can be observed. For nature enthusiasts, Lagoa do Paul offers moments of tranquility, where the sound of birds stands out, and the possibility of observing the Azores bat, which sometimes appears during the day.

A Glimpse into the Past

In the past, Lagoa do Paul played an important role in the daily lives of the neighboring communities. It was here that the women of the region would gather to wash their clothes. This task, which now seems distant, was then a moment of social gathering, sharing, and joy.

Although those times are long gone, the lagoon maintains its essence of tranquility and connection to nature. Today, it is a space where peace and communion with the environment can be felt, inviting visitors to pause and contemplate the natural scenery.

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