aventuro Back to map A
Places of interest

Alto Lindoso Dam

4.5 · 1,122 reviews
Quiet and industrial
Alto Lindoso Dam, Unnamed Rd, Portugal
Interesting facts
1

The dam's reservoir has a total capacity of approximately 379 million cubic meters.

2

The village of Aceredo, flooded in 1992, frequently emerges when reservoir water levels drop during prolonged droughts.

3

The dam features a double-curvature arch design common in high-pressure hydroelectric installations.

4

It is a key component in the Portuguese-Spanish transboundary water management agreement for the Lima River basin.

Overview

The Alto Lindoso Dam is the tallest concrete dam in Portugal, standing at 104 meters high. Located in the Peneda-Gerês National Park, it functions as a hydroelectric power plant on the Lima River. The dam facilitates a reservoir that occasionally reveals the ruins of Aceredo, a village submerged during the dam's construction in 1992. This site functions primarily as a piece of large-scale civil engineering infrastructure rather than a traditional tourist attraction. The reservoir's water levels fluctuate significantly based on seasonal hydroelectric demand. Access is situated near the border with Spain, allowing for views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. The structure is operated by EDP (Energias de Portugal).

Photo spot

The elevated roadside viewpoints overlooking the reservoir and the dam wall.

Insider tips

Check recent weather reports or local news regarding water levels if you hope to see the submerged village ruins.

Bring binoculars for spotting wildlife in the surrounding Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Maintain caution on the narrow, winding mountain roads leading to the dam area.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk on the dam structure itself, as it is a secure industrial facility.

Etiquette

No specific dress code, but sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended due to uneven terrain.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best time to visit
Late summer or early autumn, when reservoir levels are lower, increasing the likelihood of seeing structural or historical remains.
Address
Alto Lindoso Dam, Unnamed Rd, Portugal
41.872, -8.203
Get directions
Details
Engineering typeDouble-curvature concrete arch dam
Primary functionHydroelectric power generation

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late summer or early autumn, when reservoir levels are lower, increasing the likelihood of seeing structural or historical remains..

The elevated roadside viewpoints overlooking the reservoir and the dam wall.

Close by you'll find Castle of Lindoso, Granaries of Soajo, Cascata da Portela do Homem.

Portugal

About Braga (São José de São Lázaro e São João do Souto)