Caldeirão Waterfall

Category: Nature > River Beach

District: Guarda > Guarda > Guarda > Mizarela, Pêro Soares e Vila Soeiro

Location

The Caldeirão Waterfall is located at the entrance to the city of Guarda, nestled next to the wall of the Caldeirão Dam. It is situated in the Mizarela, Pêro Soares, and Vila Soeiro areas, in the municipality of Guarda, and is part of the Estrela Geopark, on the northern slope of the Serra da Estrela. Its position offers wide views over the Mondego valley, where the landscape is marked by slopes and imposing granitic cliffs.

The Natural Phenomenon

Formed by the waters of the Caldeirão Stream, this waterfall is a testament to the force of nature. Over approximately one hundred meters, the stream plunges down a total drop of fifty meters, creating a spectacle of successive waterfalls. The erosive action of the water over time has sculpted various rock formations, in particular, a deep and wide pool at the impact point of the main fall, known as "Caldeirão," which reaches approximately 19 meters in depth and 20 meters in width. The main fall, by itself, reaches a height of between 10 and 15 meters. The local rock, resulting from the contact between schist and granite, exhibits pinkish hues that contrast with the dark granite of the cliffs, enhancing the beauty of the site.

The Visit and the Scenery

Visiting the Caldeirão Waterfall is to immerse oneself in an environment of serenity and natural grandeur. In the past, access was challenging, requiring dexterity to navigate slippery and rocky trails. However, with the creation of visitor support structures, the path has become safer and more accessible. Upon approaching the falls, visitors are enveloped by the powerful sound of water filling the space, witnessing closely the small basins and natural pools that form among the rocks. The scenery is captivating in any season, but winter, with its increased water flow, offers an even more intense view. The fusion of the tranquil mirror of the dam's water and the wild nature of the surrounding cliffs creates a landscape of strong contrast and unique beauty.

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