12. Lagoa de São Bras
(São Bras Lagoon)
Lagoa de São Brás (São Brás Lagoon) is a natural gem located on São Miguel Island, about a 20-minute drive from the town of Ribeira Grande. The lagoon is situated in a flat area between Pico Moniz and Monte Escuro, and what truly makes it exceptional is that its surroundings are completely pristine as it's protected by regulations that prohibit construction.
The lagoon sits at 610 meters above sea level and is surrounded by Macaronesian flora and meadows, where you can often spot cows grazing. It measures 330 meters long by 200 meters wide and has a depth of approximately 2.3 meters.
It's quite common to visit this lagoon when you're in the northern part of the island. It's about a 10-minute drive from other tourist attractions in the area, such as the Porto Formoso Tea Factory or the Gorreana Tea Plantations. If you're visiting these places, you can't miss Lagoa de São Brás; it will leave you amazed.