Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon & outdoor sports in Rio

Rio is a city with several contrasting environments, each one more beautiful than the other. In the same region, you can find paradise beaches, mountains, islands, rainforests, a very dense urban city, and even a lagoon. This article will describe how to enjoy a day at the last one, the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, a perfect spot for practising outdoor sports in this amazing city that is Rio de Janeiro. 

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, Rio de Janeiro

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brasil

The lagoon is located in the South Zone of Rio and surrounded by a bike path that is 8.2 km long, where you can walk, run, cycle, and much more, with a sensational look. It has two small islands. The 'Piraquê Island' houses the 'Clube Naval' and the 'Caiçaras Island' hosts a club with the same name as the island, where the 2007 Pan American Games' water skiing events took place. The lagoon also has parks around it, making it the perfect place for you to enjoy your day. The setting is perfect for water sports, such as rowing and canoeing.

If you are in the mood for sports, you will need to charge your batteries before starting. For that, you can have the best breakfast in the city not too far from the lagoon, at the Parque Lage. Besides the amazing colonial breakfast, you can also admire the place and view. 

Parque Henrique Lage, Rio de Janeiro

Parque Lage - R. Jardim Botânico, 414 - Jardim Botânico - Jardim Botânico, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22461-000, Brasil

Running, walking or biking

After you get ready, it is time for you to decide what sport you will practise. You can choose between running, walking, or cycling through the bike path, depending on your preference and physical condition. 

As a big fan of sports, if I had to give you a tip, it would be to rent a bike - or bring your own - and enjoy the most of the lagoon. Just remember that if you go on a Saturday or a Sunday, be patient because the bike path is normally busy, as the place is very popular with residents of Rio. By the way, keep in mind that it is not necessary to do the full route, and if you get tired, you can always stop to rest and have a snack at the food kiosks that you will find in your way.

Pedal Boat

At the lagoon, a nice place to go is the Parque do Cantagalo, where you can find the pier from where the pedal boat rides depart. The tour is very affordable, and it lasts 30 minutes. At the place, you can also find a stand-up paddleboard, but remember that the water in the lagoon is not suitable for bathing. So, if you fall in the water, it is better to take a bath in a clean place soon after. The best time for these activities is at sunset when the colors of the evening make the place even more beautiful.

Parque do Cantagalo, Rio de Janeiro

Parque do Cantagalo - Av. Epitácio Pessoa, 2 - Lagoa, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22061, Brasil

Picnic

If you want to enjoy a nice day at the Lagoon Rodrigo de Freitas, but you are not exactly the adventure kind of person, then you should consider a picnic! And the best area is close to the Parque do Cantagalo also you (not too far from Copacabana Beach), which can be considered a nice place to stop after your day at the lagoon. For the picnic, my tip is to arrive early, as some stretches are disputed. Many families enjoy the place to have birthday parties and other celebrations on weekends and holidays. 

If you do not find a nice place to sit and enjoy your picnic, do not worry. Walk a bit more, and soon you will find one of the wooden decks surrounding the lagoon, where you can also sit and relax, maybe eat something. 

Whatever your preference of activities is, the important thing is to be there. The Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon is a special place, full of good energy, a postal card of Rio that you definitely have to visit, either to practice outdoor sports or just relax.