lake · São Francisco de Paula, RS
Lago São Bernardo
The town's postcard image, the lake is fed by eight springs and has landscaped shores, with pedal boats and an exercise area. Nearby are a small shrine and a mural honoring the tropeiros (cattle drovers) tied to the town's origins.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Lago São Bernardo
Lago São Bernardo is the postcard image of São Francisco de Paula, in the Campos de Cima da Serra highlands. It's in the central area of town and is a meeting point for locals and visitors.
The lake is fed by springs and is about 3 km around. The shores are landscaped and shaded by plane trees and araucarias, which change color with the seasons. Ducks and geese wander on the water and the grass.
A street runs all the way around the lake, and the waterside path is used for walking, running and cycling. There's outdoor exercise equipment and, on the water, pedal boat rides. The lawns are good for a picnic or for sitting and taking in the view.
The walk is flat and easy, suitable for families with kids and people of all ages. It's a good first look at the town before heading to the region's parks and waterfalls.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes for a quick look to 2 hours to walk the whole shoreline, take a pedal boat and relax.
Best time
In fall the plane trees turn yellow and red, and in winter the foggy mornings give the lake a true mountain look; at any time of year, late afternoon has the prettiest light.
How to get there
It's in the central part of São Francisco de Paula. If you're staying downtown, you can walk; by car, there's parking on the surrounding streets. The town is linked to Canela and Gramado by RS-235 and to Porto Alegre by RS-020.
Tip
Bring a warm layer even in summer: the town sits high in the mountains and the wind by the lake cools things down fast at the end of the day.
A look at the place
Lago São Bernardo in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lago São Bernardo
Is there an entrance fee for Lago São Bernardo?
No. The lake and its shores are public space, with free access. Only the pedal boat rides cost extra.
How long does it take to walk around the lake?
The loop is about 3 km. Walking at an easy pace, it takes around 40 minutes to 1 hour.
Can I walk there from the center of São Francisco de Paula?
Yes. The lake is in the central part of town, within walking distance of almost all the pousadas and restaurants downtown.
What is there to do at Lago São Bernardo?
Walk, run or cycle around the loop, take a pedal boat, use the outdoor exercise equipment, picnic on the lawns and watch the ducks and geese.
What's the best time of year to visit the lake?
Fall, when the plane trees along the shore change color. In winter, the foggy mornings also make for beautiful scenery.