Poço do Bacalhau
A breathtaking waterfall cascading into a natural swimming pool, offering a refreshing dip and stunning photo opportunities. Free and easily accessibl...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Poço do Bacalhau
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking waterfall cascading into a natural swimming pool, offering a refreshing dip and stunning photo opportunities. Free and easily accessible!
"Absolutely stunning waterfall, even went for a swim! A bit chilly, but otherwise the views were absolutely magnificent."
🏊 Bring Your Swimsuit!
The natural pool is a highlight. Don't miss a swim, even if the water is chilly! :woman-swimming:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The stone path is well-made but can be uneven. Comfortable shoes are a good idea. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Poço do Bacalhau Waterfall
Base of the falls
A stunning, powerful waterfall cascading into a natural swimming pool. Absolutely magnificent views!

Natural Swimming Pool
At the base of the waterfall
Take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters of this naturally formed pool. An unforgettable experience!
Scenic Stone Path
Path leading to the falls
Enjoy the picturesque walk to the waterfall, offering beautiful views along the way.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chill: Swimsuit is a Must!
Easy Access, Big Rewards
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏊 Bring Your Swimsuit!
The natural pool is a highlight. Don't miss a swim, even if the water is chilly! :woman-swimming:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The stone path is well-made but can be uneven. Comfortable shoes are a good idea. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photography Ready
Bring your camera and consider an ND filter for stunning waterfall shots. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Easy Parking
Park on the side of the main road; access is quick and convenient. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🏊 Bring Your Swimsuit!
The natural pool is a highlight. Don't miss a swim, even if the water is chilly! :woman-swimming:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The stone path is well-made but can be uneven. Comfortable shoes are a good idea. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photography Ready
Bring your camera and consider an ND filter for stunning waterfall shots. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Easy Parking
Park on the side of the main road; access is quick and convenient. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Poço do Bacalhau, particularly the opportunity to swim in its natural pool. The easy access via a short, well-maintained path makes it a convenient and rewarding stop. While the water is noted as being quite cold, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it a must-visit free attraction.
"Beautiful waterfall. Below the falls is the naturally made swimming pool. Amazing & bring your swimsuit & towel. The path leading to the falls is well made with stone, though not completely level. All this beauty and it's all free!!!"
Maria
"Bring swim suit, you don't want to miss a swim in this waterfall! But the water is rather cold, probably around 16°C.
This waterfall is close to the main road, where you can park on the side. It take only 5 minutes to reach it. Worth visiting even during overcast weather, where we had this waterfall all for ourselves."
Filip Mik
"Absolutely stunning waterfall, even went for a swim! A bit chilly, but otherwise the views were absolutely magnificent."
Leal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Poço do Bacalhau is easily accessible from the main road. You can park on the side of the road and it's just a short, 5-minute walk to the waterfall along a well-made stone path.
Yes, parking is available on the side of the main road leading to the waterfall. It's very convenient for visitors.
The walk to Poço do Bacalhau is very short, only about 5 minutes from the roadside parking.
The path is well-made with stone, though it's not completely level. It's generally easy to navigate for most visitors.
Information on public transport is limited, but driving or a taxi is the most common and convenient way to reach this natural attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Poço do Bacalhau is a natural attraction and entry is completely free!
As a natural outdoor attraction, Poço do Bacalhau is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee. You can enjoy the beauty of the waterfall and its swimming pool for free.
Yes, you can swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall. Be prepared for cold water, around 16°C.
Definitely bring your swimsuit and a towel if you plan to swim. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for the path.
📸 📸 Photography
You can photograph the waterfall from up close, from the street, and various points in between to capture different moods and effects.
While not essential, a Neutral Density (ND) filter can be very useful for achieving silky smooth water effects in your waterfall photos.
Yes, the path leads to the base of the waterfall, allowing for close-up photography opportunities. Be mindful of slippery rocks.
Visiting during overcast weather can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned for photography at Poço do Bacalhau. Enjoy capturing its beauty!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Refreshing Dip: Swimming at Poço do Bacalhau
While the water is cold, the sheer beauty of the surroundings makes the swim worthwhile for many. It's a chance to connect with nature in a very direct way. The experience is often described as 'amazing' and 'unforgettable,' highlighting the unique appeal of this natural swimming spot.
Photography Opportunities at Poço do Bacalhau
For those looking to enhance their waterfall shots, bringing a Neutral Density (ND) filter is highly recommended. This allows for longer exposure times, creating a silky, ethereal effect on the moving water, a technique often sought after in landscape photography. Visiting during overcast weather can be a blessing, providing diffused light that is ideal for photography and often results in fewer crowds, giving you more freedom to compose your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit