Captain's Lagoon

Category: Nature > Lagoon

District: Açores > São Roque do Pico > São Roque do Pico

Location

Located in the municipality of São Roque do Pico, in the heart of Pico Island, Lagoa do Capitão sits at a considerable altitude, approximately 826 meters above sea level. This privileged location on the central plateau offers a unique panoramic view. From here, one can admire the landscape of the village of São Roque do Pico, stretching to the island's north coast and the channel separating it from São Jorge Island.

The Mountain's Mirror

One of the most striking aspects of Lagoa do Capitão is how its serene waters transform into a natural mirror. On clear days, the imposing Pico Mountain, with its unique silhouette, is reflected on the lake's surface, creating an image of striking beauty. This setting provides a tranquil environment and is a much-appreciated spot for observing the grandeur of the island's volcanic landscape, offering a particularly picturesque viewpoint.

Wildlife and Flora

The surroundings of Lagoa do Capitão are a true sanctuary of biodiversity. The luxuriant and endemic Macaronesian vegetation surrounding the lake includes notable species such as Erica azorica, cedars, laurels, and ironwood trees, some of which reach large dimensions, like the Azorean junipers. The lake's waters and its surroundings are also home and a passage point for a diversity of birds. It is possible to observe birds such as the grey heron, the yellow-legged gull, and the blackbird, as well as, with some luck, rarer aquatic bird species, enriching the experience for visitors to the site.

An Essential Ecosystem

Beyond its scenic value, Lagoa do Capitão plays a fundamental role in the ecosystem of Pico Island. It is the island's largest lake and represents an important strategic freshwater reserve. Its size, although not giant, with an area of 2.6 hectares and a maximum depth of 4.5 meters, is crucial for the maintenance of natural systems. This lake is classified as a Protected Water Body and is integrated into the Central Zone Protected Landscape Area, underscoring its value in environmental conservation and the island's ecological health.

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