Lagoa das Patas: Terceira’s Mirror Water

Travel 13/08/2025

Travel

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3 months ago

Copywriter

Rita Puga

Photos

Álvaro Palácios

Photos

David Rodrigues

Lagoa das Patas, or Lagoa da Falca, rests in the heart of the Lagoa das Patas Forest Reserve. This forest reserve is located in the Doze Ribeiras parish, in Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island.

The calm waters of Lagoa das Patas create a breathtaking natural mirror, reflecting the surrounding landscape. Surrounded by a vibrant forest of cryptomerias, typical of the region, the lagoon offers a true haven of tranquility.

As one of Angra do Heroísmo’s unique natural wonders, this lagoon offers a truly special experience. This article will explore the area’s key attractions and provide insights into what makes this destination special.

Contents hide

1 What is Lagoa das Patas

1.1 Fauna & Flora

2 What to Do at Lagoa das Patas

2.1 Lagoa das Patas Forest Reserve

2.2 Lagoa das Patas Trail

3 Plan Your Visit to Lagoa das Patas

3.1 How to Get to Lagoa das Patas

3.2 Best Time to Visit

3.3 Where to Eat

3.4 Where to Stay

4 What to Do Around Lagoa das Patas

4.1 Viveiro da Falca Forest Reserve

4.2 Church of São Bartolomeu de Regatos

4.3 Pico dos Frades

4.4 Gruta do Natal

4.5 Monte Brasil

4.6 Furnas do Enxofre

5 Complementary Information

5.1 Best Season to Visit the Azores

5.2 How to Get to the Azores

5.3 Travel Essentials

5.4 Useful Tools & Apps

What is Lagoa das Patas

Visit Azores | Landscape of Lagoa das Patas Recreational Forest Reserve

Lagoa das Patas, or Lagoa da Falca, sits near a fairly high-altitude stream in the island’s interior. This explains the constant fog. The small lagoon is fed by water flowing from the mountains through Ribeira Brava. It is home to many ducks that waddle among the water lilies. For this reason, people know it as Lagoa das Patas.

The lagoon, surrounded by azaleas, hydrangeas, and other shrubs and trees, conveys the calm and silence of nature. The cryptomeria forest adds to the peaceful atmosphere, making this a true wonder of nature. A leisure park on this site allows visitors to use the space more comfortably.

Fauna & Flora

Surrounded by a cryptomeria forest, Lagoa das Patas is home to a wide variety of species. The lagoon sits in a natural rainfall accumulation area formed by a large, flat peat bog. Along the stream that feeds the lagoon, you can find indigenous Azorean flora, including azaleas, cedar, hydrangeas, heather, and beech.

As for fauna, visitors can spot various bird species. These include mallards, geese, sparrows, wigeons, blackbirds, thrushes, seagulls, and other migratory birds. However, human intervention has significantly impacted the area, causing ecological changes that have led to considerable biodiversity loss.

What to Do at Lagoa das Patas

Lagoa das Patas Forest Reserve

The Lagoa das Patas Recreational Forest Reserve is in the heart of Terceira Island. It lies along the road connecting Pico da Bagacina to Doze Ribeiras. The stunning Falca Lagoon is perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature with family and friends.

The reserve offers picnic areas nestled within the dense forest surrounding the lagoon. It also provides essential facilities such as toilets, free parking, a support house, and a hermitage. While visiting, explore the picturesque Ermida da Falca, a charming landmark that enhances the area’s appeal.

Lagoa das Patas Trail

The Lagoa das Patas Trail is in the São Bartolomeu dos Regatos parish. It begins and ends near the Lagoa das Patas Leisure Area. Along the route, you will cross streams, waterfalls, cryptomeria forests, pastures, and areas rich in endemic vegetation.

With a circular route of approximately 5 km and moderate difficulty, the trail takes around 3 hours to complete. You’ll experience the area’s natural beauty throughout the walk, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature.

For the best experience, we recommend you bring:

Sneakers or hiking boots;
Comfortable clothing;
Waterproof jacket;
Sunscreen and a hat;
Backpack;
Water and snacks.

Plan Your Visit to Lagoa das Patas

How to Get to Lagoa das Patas

To reach Lagoa das Patas from Angra do Heroísmo, head towards Doze Ribeiras, about 11 km away. The journey takes approximately:

15 minutes by car, motorcycle, or taxi;
1 hour and 10 minutes by bike;
2 hours and 40 minutes on foot.

There are several routes to choose from, allowing you to select the one that suits you best. Travel time may vary depending on your chosen path.

Best Time to Visit

Temperatures in Terceira are mild year-round, with the best conditions for visiting Lagoa das Patas from May to September. During this period, the weather is sunny, ideal for nature walks and enjoying the area’s tranquility.

Although the archipelago often experiences cloudy skies, Lagoa das Patas offers a peaceful environment. Even on overcast days, the unique beauty of the landscape in the forest reserve remains, allowing for a serene experience.

Where to Eat

Click on the following link to find a place near Lagoa das Patas. It will take you to TripAdvisor, where you can review the 10 best restaurants.

Where to Stay

To help with your accommodation, we’ve filtered search results from:

What to Do Around Lagoa das Patas

Viveiro da Falca Forest Reserve

Luís Costa | The grandeur of nature at Viveiro da Falca

The Viveiro da Falca Recreational Forest Reserve is in the São Bartolomeu dos Regatos parish in Angra do Heroísmo. Created by the Forestry Administration of Terceira, this sanctuary offers nature lovers a unique experience in the island’s heart.

The reserve spans approximately 6 hectares, showcasing the region’s natural beauty. It protects both common and unique Azorean plant species. Hedges of camellias and azaleas border the reserve, while dense cryptomeria forests and oak plantations surround it. The reserve also hosts plane trees, metrosideros, and other species.

With plenty of space for enjoyment, visitors can relax in picnic areas, rest zones, and at tables. The reserve also provides barbecues, toilets, a playground, a playing field, and a car park.

Church of São Bartolomeu de Regatos

The 16th-century Church of São Bartolomeu de Regatos is one of the oldest on Terceira Island. It is a historical landmark in the São Bartolomeu de Regatos parish, Angra do Heroísmo.

The church initially had three naves, two sacristies, an altar, and two side chapels. It also featured a baptistery, a bell tower, and a churchyard, creating a significant historical space. In 1875, it underwent significant renovations and improvements.

Over the years, the church faced several challenges. In 1963, a fire caused significant damage, and in 1964, a natural disaster further impacted the building. Despite these setbacks, the parish acted quickly to restore it. However, in 1980, a major earthquake hit the island, causing more destruction.

After this event, the community completely rebuilt the church. It remains as it is today, showcasing resilience. The church is a testament to its history, symbolizing the community’s strength and determination.

Pico dos Frades

Pico dos Frades, located in the southwestern part of Terceira Island, forms a volcanic cone made of basaltic bagacina. At 325 meters above sea level, it offers stunning views of the Santa Bárbara Volcano and the surrounding landscape.

Historically, it hosted the ‘Corrida de Toros à Corda’, a popular annual event that attracted locals and tourists. Participants guided bulls through the streets by rope during the festival, creating an exciting atmosphere.

Although they phased out the tradition for safety and animal welfare, it remains a key part of Terceira’s cultural history. Today, Pico dos Frades is a significant natural and artistic landmark, showcasing the island’s unique heritage.

Gruta do Natal

The Gruta do Natal (Christmas Cave) is located near Picos Gordos, within the Serra de Santa Bárbara. It is part of the Mistérios Negros Natural Forest Reserve. Known for its excellent facilities, this cave offers the best conditions for visitors.

Despite the marks of human presence, the cave features a fascinating geological structure. It includes various types of lava, staphylites, and side counters. Outside, you’ll find high-altitude pastures and cryptomeria forests.

This magical lava tunnel, stretching approximately 697 meters, offers a unique underground experience. The cave’s bizarre shapes and vivid colors create a surreal atmosphere, leaving you in awe.

Monte Brasil

Monte Brasil, a volcanic cone, formed from an underwater basaltic eruption in shallow waters. This geological wonder has shaped the landscape of Angra do Heroísmo. It provides unique viewpoints with panoramic views and lush vegetation, including native trees and shrubs.

The area is rich in biodiversity, with various wildlife on land and in the surrounding marine environments. Visitors can explore the submerged and semi-submerged caves, home to a wide range of aquatic fauna. These caves and the island’s flora and fauna make Monte Brasil a key spot for nature enthusiasts.

Monte Brasil also has historical significance. It once served as a military stronghold, but today, it is a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists. Explore its natural beauty and enjoy various leisure activities, including hiking trails and sightseeing tours.

Furnas do Enxofre

Furnas do Enxofre is a fumarolic field in the parish of Posto Santo, in Angra do Heroísmo. It covers approximately 14 hectares. This natural monument forms part of the Central Plateau of Terceira. The Azores UNESCO World Geopark recognizes it as a geosite.

Characterized by volcanic and geothermal activity, Furnas do Enxofre emits volcanic gases at high temperatures. The temperature reaches 95 °C at the surface and up to 130 °C at a depth of half a meter. A top-rated tourist destination, it attracts visitors with its unique landscape. However, precautions are essential, as prolonged exposure to sulfurous gases can harm your health.

Complementary Information

Best Season to Visit the Azores

The Azores Archipelago boasts a unique climate that shapes its lush landscapes, making it a splendid year-round destination. With mild temperatures and minimal fluctuations, each season offers something unique. Spring averages 16 °C, summer reaches 21 °C, autumn cools to 18 °C, and winter remains mild at 14 °C.

How to Get to the Azores

The Azorean Archipelago is easily accessible through numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights available to São Miguel (PDL), Terceira (TER), Faial (HOR), Pico (PIX), and Santa Maria (SMA). To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner. These platforms enable you to compare prices and schedules from various airlines in one convenient location.

For more details on how to get to the Azores, take a look at our complete guide. But what if you want to explore beyond your arrival island? We’ve got you covered!

→ Once you’ve found the perfect route, book your tickets and get ready to experience one of the world’s most stunning island groups!

Travel Essentials

Useful Tools & Apps

The weather in the Azores can be variable, so it’s helpful to use some apps before visiting the islands. Spotazores provides live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, allowing you to check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru — they provide the most reliable predictions.

Video

Fábio Meneses | Discover the serene beauty of Lagoa das Patas

Conclusion

The Lagoa das Patas and the surrounding forest reserve stand out for their educational value. Enjoy peaceful moments in nature, appreciating the tranquility of the surroundings. Here, you can observe the unique fauna and flora of the region.

Don’t miss other must-see attractions in Angra do Heroísmo. These include Furnas do Enxofre, Monte Brasil, Gruta do Natal, and Viveiros da Falca. With its rich history and natural wonders, Terceira Island is the perfect destination for nature and culture lovers.

Authors’ Note

I am pleased to inform you that all the recommendations in this article are based on my personal experience and observations. As the author, I have personally visited each attraction mentioned, ensuring that every suggestion is grounded in first-hand knowledge and genuine enthusiasm.

FAQs

Where is Lagoa das Patas located?

Lagoa das Patas is located in the parish of Doze Ribeiras, Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island. It is part of the Lagoa das Patas Recreational Forest Reserve.

What makes Lagoa das Patas unique?

Lagoa das Patas is famed for its peaceful environment, surrounded by dense cryptomeria forests. The lagoon’s calm waters reflect the stunning surrounding nature, resembling a natural mirror.

What can visitors do at Lagoa das Patas?

Visitors can enjoy leisurely moments in nature, observing the region’s unique fauna and flora. The area is perfect for walks and relaxation, and offers a beautiful setting for picnics.

How can I get to Lagoa das Patas?

To reach Lagoa das Patas from Angra do Heroísmo, head toward Doze Ribeiras. It is an 11 km drive, taking approximately 15 minutes by car or motorcycle. Alternatively, you can travel by bike or on foot.

Map

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Impactful & unforgetable experiences

Browse all the outstanding experiences you can live in the Azores

Whale Watching

Lying in the middle of the mystical Atlantic Ocean, the wonderful Azores islands are a permanent home or point of passage for more than a third of the entire world’s whale and dolphin species.
Dive into this lifetime adventure with ancestral creatures where science and emotion come together at their highest level!
This may be the best place on earth to observe these magnificent animals.

Jeep Tours

Feel the rush, surprise, and emotion in an all-terrain vehicle, this adventure will take you to the core of secrets. We will take you where nobody has ever reached before. Experience moments of adrenaline in our jeep tours. The adventure through the interior of the islands will begin!
The trips are made in 4×4 vehicles properly equipped, capable of taking you to places little explored. It is intended for those who want to discover new perspectives and unusual scenarios on the Azores Islands in a more adventurous way. We pass on secondary roads, which are not usually found on the usual tourist routes. They are narrow paths, dirt paths, called “canadas” in Azorean, and are mostly used by farmers.

Kayaking & SUP

Find solace in listening to the birds chirping and enjoy the peacefulness of the moment, and make sure you capture it with your camera this unforgettable experience.
Sete Cidades is a volcanic complex where you can visit several lakes. Inside one of the craters, you can find two lakes, known as Lagoa Verde (green lake) and Lagoa Azul (blue lake), that feature in a legendary love legend about the lake’s creation. This special place was elected as one of the country’s seven natural wonders and once you are there, you will definitely understand why.
The contrast of colors between the two mysterious lakes is mesmerizing, and being on the water, in the middle of the volcanic crater, will give you a different perspective of the high green cliffs around.

Canyoning

The boldest and most unique adventure! Heading through the natural landscape you will be able to enjoy some adrenaline-fueled activities. Wet, wild, and absolutely unforgettable.
This experience involves trekking through river gorges, around pools, or even behind waterfalls.
Canyoners navigate down waterways by abseiling down waterfalls, clambering over rocks, or jumping into water rock pools. You will get wet for sure, even with an exposure suit, but this is not too bad with the relatively warm climate of the Azores.

Van Tours

Take a seat in the emotion sector, stop wherever you want and where your curiosity demands it. Taste, observe, and treasure the entire originality of this Atlantic paradise.
If you want to get to know the island of São Miguel more peacefully, without the worry of renting a car, opt for more comfort, on a pleasant van ride. Make the most of your vacation and get away from the city.
This way, you are guaranteed to know the main points of interest, but also those you will not find in travel guides. This is perhaps the best choice for those looking for convenience and security.

Hiking Tours

From lush green vegetation to a great variety of wildlife, enjoy heaven after a long ramble with otherworldly vistas.
Enjoy your holidays in the Azores walking through the beautiful landscapes of volcanic origin. Breathe fresh air and contemplate all the diversity of fauna and flora you will find.
You can start the day feeling the nature among mountains, enjoy more than one lagoon on the island of São Miguel, and finally, to end the day in a perfect way, take a boat trip to see the sunset.

Bike Tours

In order to discover São Miguel island and stay active, cycling is definitely the way to go!
At Sete Cidades volcanic complex, have one of your best bike adventures! Indeed, we are not taking you to a random place. We are talking here about one of the Seven elected wonders of all of Portugal.
This is where our awesome bike adventures take place and we can tell that we love to take our guests there!

Coasteering

Here, you can explore the geography of the giant rocky cliffs climbing through the sky and how the pounding waves smooth the coastline. Coasteering is an exhilarating experience combining rock and water activity with coastal landscapes. It was originated as a combination of mountaineering and orienteering.