Lagoa do Caldeirão, lake in Portugal
Lagoa do Caldeirão is a volcanic crater lake in the Azores with deep blue water surrounded by steep rocky walls. The basin displays the circular shape of the former magma chamber, which has filled with rainwater over time.
The lake formed thousands of years ago when a volcanic eruption caused a magma chamber to collapse, leaving a deep circular depression. Over time, rainfall accumulated in this crater, creating the freshwater body seen today.
The lake is best approached from the crater's edge, where walking paths offer views without requiring steep descents to reach water level. The water remains cold year-round, and paths can become slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear and caution are advisable.
Water levels fluctuate noticeably with the seasons since the basin depends almost entirely on rainfall with no underground springs feeding it. During dry periods, the surface drops significantly, revealing more of the volcanic crater floor.
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