Pego do Inferno
Hidden away in the Tavira countryside, the 'Hell's Pool' is one of the Algarve's most mythical natural waterfalls. After a short hike through Mediterranean scrubland, visitors are rewarded with a secluded emerald-green lagoon fed by a picturesque cascade.
🌿 The Magic of the Place
What sets this place apart is its deep, circular limestone basin creating a micro-ecosystem. The thick canopy of olive trees, oleanders, and vines gives it a jungle-like appearance that contrasts sharply with the hot, arid surroundings of the summer Algarve.
💡 Did you know?
Despite its terrifying name, local legend says the lagoon was called 'Pego do Inferno' after a carriage fell into the water and could never be found, leading locals to believe the pool was a bottomless entrance to the underworld. In reality, it's about 7 meters deep!
📸 Insider Tips
Visit early in the morning during spring or early summer to guarantee water flow and avoid crowds. Access can be tricky as the official wooden pathways were destroyed in a 2012 wildfire, so wear sturdy hiking shoes.