Castelo do Bode
Castelo do Bode, 2300 Tomar, Portugal
About
The reservoir of Castelo do Bode Lake is the second largest body of fresh water in Portugal. It follows the path of the River Zêzere through the region of the Ribatejo in central Portugal with the dam (barragem) situated at the southern end at Castelo do Bode. Surrounded by forests of pine and eucalyptus trees, the lake covers an area of 3,300 hectares and is 60 kilometres (40-miles) in length. Castelo do Bode lake also has many islands, notably Ilha da Lomba, which has a fully functioning hotel and restaurant, only accessible by boat. The main purpose of Castelo do Bode lake is to provide drinking water for the population of Lisbon, but there are many by-products including the production of hydro-electricity, providing habitats for wildlife and a wealth of leisure pursuits. The dam (barragem de Castelo do Bode) itself it a tourist attraction with coach loads of tourists visiting each year to marvel at the engineering of the construction. Most weekends and public holidays there are stalls selling dried fruit and traditional crafts. Whether you enjoy fishing, water skiing, sailing, jet skiing, swimming, canoeing or simply breath taking scenery Castelo do Bode has something for everyone. The reservoir is a haven for birds and wildlife and even has it's own eco-museum, based in the village of Martinchel. Castelo do Bode lake is a water sport delight. The waters are crystal clear and the ph level is tested daily to ensure it's purity. However it is still possible to utilise speed boats and jet skis on the lake as long as they are four stroke. There are various marinas with slipways to the lake, some private and some owned by the local councils. Although the lake is popular for water skiing, jet skiing, wind surfing, sailing and canoeing due to it's size it is rarely over crowded. You will find the public swimming areas, complete with floating swimming pontoons, will be busier than out of the way coves. However if you wish to take a dip in the water there are hundreds of spots to choose from. Though if you enjoy scuba diving, Castelo do Bode lake has something special to offer. The waters of the lake are crystal clear and local dive schools organise regular trips to visit the six villages which were flooded during the creation of the reservoir. read more about this attraction http://www.gekkoportugal.com
