Envision a place where magic dwells. Here at Lago das Fadas the atmosphere is enchanting. This translates to Fairy Lake. It is one of the most beautiful spots in the Tijuca Forest. It is easily accessible by following the paved road inside the Forest. The road goes toward Bom Retiro. From the Forest’s entrance at Afonso Viseu Square to the Lake it is about 3km.
The landscape of Lago das Fadas resembles a fairy tale. It has a greenish water lake. Immense eucalyptus trees appear to sprout from the water. This gives the environment a magical atmosphere. These trees were planted before Auguste François Marie Glaziou created the landscaping. Glaziou was a French botanist. He designed the landscape in the 19th century. He left the tree roots submerged. Glaziou was known as the landscaper of the Empire. He designed the gardens of Quinta da Boa Vista. He renovated the gardens of Campo de Santana and Largo do Machado. He worked on other spots in Rio between the 1860s and 1890s.
Around Lago das Fadas are benches. They are made from tree trunks that fell in the region. They invite you to rest and contemplate. There is also a leisure area next to the Lake. You can have a picnic there. Enjoy the shade of the trees and the lush nature around you.
Baron Escragnolle the second administrator of the Forest named the Lake. The original landscaping was by Glaziou. Lago das Fadas is located in an old pond. Architect Vladimir Alves de Souza dammed and restored it in 1944.
The Tijuca National Park is divided into three sectors. They are Forest Serra da Carioca and Pedra Bonita/Pedra da Gávea. It has program options for everyone. These include picnic and barbecue areas. You can also find hang gliding climbing and hiking. There are many famous postcards of the country in the park. Corcovado Mountain is one. The statue of Christ the Redeemer is located there. It is one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Other sites are Vista Chinesa Pedra da Gávea Parque Lage and Paineiras. The Forest sector is a large green area in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. It is also known as Floresta da Tijuca. There is plenty of nature and recreational spaces to enjoy. You can spend the day with friends family and children. An infinity of trails are concentrated here. There are two main circuits. They are the Picos and the Vale Histórico. Part of the largest urban trail in Brazil the Transcarioca is also here.
Lago das Fadas is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. During daylight saving time it is open until 6 pm. The Tijuca Forest sector has infrastructure for visitors. There are public restrooms throughout the Park. You can find information points and many informative signs. At Afonso Viseu Square there is a classic restaurant. It is called Bar da Pracinha. You can have a tasty meal there after enjoying the day in the Forest. There is a souvenir shop at the Cascatinha entrance to the Park. You can buy souvenirs of the Forest and the Wonderful City.
The Tijuca National Park is an incredible place. It supplies Rio de Janeiro with its waters. It is also the habitat of diverse species. Respect the environment. Take your litter with you. Do not uproot plant species. Avoid shortcuts to prevent erosion. Do not use chemical products like soaps and shampoos when bathing in waterfalls. Conscious use of public and natural spaces helps keep these spaces special for everyone.