The Castelo do Bode dam, which creates this reservoir, is one of the tallest in Portugal at 115 meters.
The reservoir provides a significant portion of the drinking water supply for the Lisbon metropolitan area.
The Zêzere River, which feeds this reservoir, is the second-longest river located entirely within Portuguese territory.
The blue tint of the water, which gives the beach its name, is influenced by the surrounding forest canopy and depth of the reservoir.
The area is a frequent site for international wakeboarding and rowing competitions due to the calm water conditions.
Praia Fluvial do Lago Azul is a river beach situated on the shores of the Castelo do Bode reservoir in Central Portugal. It features a designated swimming area monitored by lifeguards during the peak summer season. The site includes a concrete pier, a floating pool, and infrastructure for non-motorized water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The surrounding landscape consists of dense pine forests typical of the Zêzere River valley. It serves as a hub for recreational navigation within the Albufeira da Barragem de Castelo de Bode. Facilities include a restaurant, public showers, and picnic areas.
The elevated viewing area near the main entrance offers a panoramic perspective of the winding river and the reservoir.
Bring water shoes to navigate the transition between the rocky shoreline and the floating pool.
Arrive early on weekends during July and August to secure a parking spot.
Check water quality reports posted at the entrance before swimming.
Do not swim outside the demarcated buoys, as the reservoir features steep drop-offs and unpredictable currents near the dam.
Lifeguard services and water sport rentals are typically only operational during the summer bathing season.
Maintain noise levels respectful of the quiet natural surroundings; carry out all trash to preserve the reservoir's water quality.
