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Estrela Neighborhood Guide: The Stunning Star of Lisbon

Estrela means “star” in English.

Its name comes from the five streets that fan out from the main square in front of the Basilica de Estrela but also emanates from the majestic feeling you get when wandering its streets. 

The name “ Estrela” is relevantly new. In 2012, the Administrative Reform of Lisbon merged the former parishes of Lapa, Santos-o-Velho, and Prazeres and created Estrela. Surrounded by Campo de Ourique to the south, Misericordia to the west, and Alcantara to the east, Estrela is essentially at the center of Lisbon and is close to everything.

The neighborhood is a blend of classic and modern ; new and old, quiet and vibrant. If you are looking for somewhere peaceful with lots of parks and green spaces, you have Estrela and Lapa. If you want some entertainment, São Bento is the place to go.

So, if you are planning to move to Estrela, already living here, or looking for a place to visit in Lisbon away from tourists’ huff and puff , buckle your seatbelts as we take you through Estrela’s best cafés, restaurants, and green spaces. In this guide, we will cover everything, from where to eat, where to relax, where to stay, and what not to miss.

How to Get Around 

Estrela is located halfway up the hill between São Bento and Campo de Ourique, in the historic center of Lisbon. Unfortunately, there is no metro station in Estrela, but buses (709, 713, 720, 727, 738, 773, and 774) and trams (28 and 25) pass through the district. You can also get around by using taxis or UBER. Since Estrela is close to everything, taxi fees are not expensive. They range from €4.00 to €11.00, tops.

You can also visit the area on foot. Estrela is hilly, but not as much as other Lisbon districts, such as Alfama or Bairro Alto. However, it can be challenging. So, if you love walking, we recommend exploring this neighborhood on foot. Walk on to Larga de Estrela to bask in the beauty of the Basilica da Estrela before continuing to Lapa.

If you didn’t know, Lapa is home to beautiful buildings that were once royal mansions but now have been transformed into embassies overlooking the Tagus river.

Things to do in Estrela 

If we wanted to list all the things you could do in Estrela, the list would go on and on endlessly. Estrela has much to offer, from museums to green landscapes , excellent restaurants, and a beautiful atmosphere.

However, here are a few not-to-miss things you should do if you find yourself in Estrela.

Visit the Basilica da Estrela

Take the time to visit and admire one of the most attractive landmarks in Lisbon and discover its surrounding area. Famous for its two bell towers, you can see the Basilica’s monumental white dome from afar. 

The Basilica da Estrela, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus , was built at the end of the 18th century. Its interior is a combination of sculptures, paintings, and geometric patterns . The Basilica houses the tomb of Queen Mary I of Portugal, who vowed to build the best church in Lisbon if she had a male heir. Unfortunately, he died of smallpox at 17 , two years before the building was completed.

Enjoy the Basilica’s ornamental white façade and lavish interior , and don’t miss out on one of Portugal’s most magnificent nativity scenes, with over 500 clay and cork figures. 

If you love Miraduros as much as we do, you must take the spiral staircase to reach the rooftop. Once you arrive at the top, you will enjoy splendid views of Lisbon, especially the São Jorge Castle and the 25 de Abril Bridge. 

While visiting the Basilica is free, seeing the nativity scene costs €2, and going to the Basilica terrace costs €4.

How to get there?   Trams 25E and 28E stop just in front of the Basilica. However, they sometimes get packed with tourists, so use bus 727 or 738 instead.

Take a stroll in Jardim da Estrela 

Facing the Basilica, you will find the Jardim da Estrela , a wonderful green space in the neighborhood and one of the most beautiful parks in Lisbon.

Families can sit on the lawn and enjoy the beautiful weather or go to the kiosk/café, which sells food and drinks and offers outdoor seating. We recommend you relax in the shade of a tree , sitting on one of the easy-to-find garden benches with a cup of coffee, a glass of wine, or a fast snack. There are also picnic tables and people jogging or exercising . There is even a kiosk for the municipal library at the center of the Jardim. 

If you enjoy photographing nature , this is your ideal place. You will find many exotic trees like jacarandas, dragon trees, and araucarias here. Expressive sculptures also adorn the garden’s paths, transforming the area into an alfresco museum where visitors can admire art or simply rest.

Make sure to check out the “O Despertar” (“The Awakening”) and the “O Cavador” (“The Digger”) sculptures.

The Jardim also hosts many events. For instance, in the center of the garden, there’s a lovely gazebo that acts like an old-fashioned bandstand and holds summer concerts. Every first weekend of the month, except for January, the Jardim enjoys a craft and design market from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, where designers from all over Portugal exhibit their creations.

How to get there?  Jardim da Estrela’s ideal location makes it incredibly accessible. Trams 28E and 25E stop there, as do buses 773 and 774, so there are plenty of options if you want to visit the Jardim using public transportation.   

Enjoy a walk in the neighborhood of Lapa.

A stroll down the streets of Lapa is always a good idea, whether in the morning or at night. The beautiful blend of the building’s pastel-colored and azulejo facades and the glimpse of the Tagus river and the Cristo Rei you get while walking down its streets, will amaze you.

Lapa is known for its mansions and villas, which once were the homes of nobility. Some of them now house embassies and consulates. The area is even called the “Embassy quarter.” 

After a 15-minute walk through its streets, indulge yourself with a refreshing drink at the Jardim 9 de Abril, next to the Ancient Art Museum. 

Stop at the Jardim 9 de Abril

Neighboring the Ancient Art Museum , Jardim de 9 Abril rests on a large limestone platform overlooking the Lisbon Port. It’s a small miraduro that offers a panoramic view of the Tagus River, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the Cristo Rei Statue. 

This Jardim is not as big as the Jardim de Estrela or Tapadas das Necessidades. Still, it is beautiful, especially during the Jacaranda season, when cobbled paths, grass, and benches are covered in purple.

How to get there?  Take one of the 713, 714, or 727 buses and walk 2 minutes to the Jardim.

Visit the Museum of Ancient Art 

Next to Jardim 9 de Abril is the Museu Nacional de Art Atiga , the Louvre of Lisbon. It’s one of the most important Portuguese museums. 

The museum is housed in a 19th-century palace overlooking the Tagus river. It has the most extensive collection of silver and gold objects in Portugal, ranging from the Middle Ages to the magnificent Baroque works of the 19th century. 

What’s unique about this museum is its collection of valuable pieces and decorative objects from Africa, India, and China, like embroidery, furniture, silver, and porcelain. The museum is enormous, so take your time seeing each section. We recommend not missing the 16th-century Japanese Namban Folding Screens , illustrating the fascination of the Japanese during their first encounter with Europeans. 

How to get there?  The museum is next to the Jardim 9 de Abril; therefore, the same buses can take you to both destinations.

Spend an afternoon in Tapadas das Necessidades 

Considered by some as the secret garden of Lisbon , Tapadas das Necessidades is truly a treasure. At one time, monarchs used this place as their hunting grounds, but it has been open to the public since 1910. 

The park has rare trees from Asia, Africa, and the Americas , and it is said that this is where Edouard Manet was inspired to paint his masterpiece “ Le dejeuner sur l’herbe. ” During the weekends, many families gather there to enjoy Lisbon’s hot summer days. This is the perfect place to picnic, celebrate birthdays, or relax in the sun.

How to get there? Numerous transit lines have routes that pass near Tapada das Necessidades, so try not to miss visiting this enchanting garden: buses 158, 162, 176, 713, 714, 727, 742, 751, and 754. You can also get down at Rato station and walk down to the Tapada. 

Have an ice cream at Unico Gelato

Pass by Sao Bento Parliament, then treat yourself to a delicious ice cream from Unico Gelato . 

If you are visiting from England, you’ve probably heard of or tasted the remarkable Unico Gelato. The recipes come directly from Cremeria Funivia, Bologna , Italy, an authentic handmade gelato.

The place has over 20 different flavors , so choose wisely, or you can buy a container and enjoy exploring the flavors in your apartment. Our favorites are the Pistachio and Trio de Bologna . Trust us; you will not be disappointed. 

How to get there? Busses 714 and 727 both stop next to the ice cream shop. 

Shopping in Estrela

There aren’t any big shopping centers or malls in Estrela, but since it is next to everything, within a 10-minute drive, you can go to Amoreiras Shopping Center, and it will take around 1 5 minutes to get from Estrela to El-Cortes Ingles. 

However, there are a lot of art galleries, antique shops , and handmade Portuguese products in Estrela. You can find them everywhere, from markets held every weekend at the LX Factory to monthly markets at the Estrela Garden and every corner in Lapa. 

Our favorite furniture store is LX Lapa , at Rua Maestro Antonio Taborda. It’s a concept store that was once a palace. Now it brings a wide selection of vintage and industrial furniture, Portuguese art by young artists, and a wide selection of interior plants.  

Estrela Best Restaurants

Estrela offers various trendy restaurants and eclectic local and international cuisines, ranging from Italian to French, Thai, Japanese, and more. The list is very long, but here are some of our favorites.

Café São Bento

📍 Address: Rua de São Bento, 212 | Type of Food: Gastropub | Steakhouse | Price: $$$

Located right next to the Assemblia de Republica—the parliament— Café São Bento serves one of the best steaks in Lisbon, as well as the best crème brûlée and tarte tatin. They also provide delicious Porto wine .

Avocado House

📍 Address: Rua da Esperanca 21 | Type of Food: Healthy | vegetarian friendly | Price: $$

This place is a must-try if you are an avocado lover. At Avocado House , every dish is made with avocado. Start with the  Avo Crush , and end with the  Avo Lime . For the main dish, there are many options you can choose from, like the  Mei Wei no Avocado Burger  with sweet potato chips, which are crunchy and delicious. If you are a vegetarian, try the  Ahimsa Bowl. It’s an explosion of color and taste. 

Tasca da Esquina

📍 Address: Rua Domingos Sequeria 41C | Type of food: Portuguese | Price: $

Tasca da Esquina is full of surprises, especially if you opt for the “ Fique Nas Maos Do Chef ” option, which translates to “Stay in the Chef’s hands.” You can choose from three menus (5, 6, or 8 portions), and they all include dessert. It also depends on what the chef will choose for you. You can also order from the regular menu.

Flor da Estrela Restaurante 

📍 Address: Rua Joao de Deus 11 | Type of Food: Traditional Portuguese | Price: $ 

Flor da Estrela Restaurante is the perfect place to have a quiet lunch away from the crowds. Next to Jardim da Estrela, the restaurant serves delicious , homemade Portuguese food at a great price. The fried cuttlefish and the bacalhau (codfish) are incredible.

Club de Journalistas 

Address: Rua das Trinas 129 Lapa | Type of Food: International | Contemporary  | Price: $$

Unlike its name, Club de Journalistas is not only for journalists. Many journalists and politicians have lunch or even a coffee break here, thanks to its proximity to the São Bento Parliament. 

The restaurant has a beautiful patio , a pleasant atmosphere, and good food . For starters, we recommend you try the  Roasted Eggplant, Miso Caramel and Pistachio , and the  Octopus in Rosemary  with sweet mashed potatoes as a main course; a guaranteed burst of flavors. 

Estrela’s Best Coffee Shops

In Estrela, you will experience concept coffee shops different from the Portuguese coffee served at traditional cafes. Below, we have listed three of our favorites.

La Boulangerie 

📍 Location:  R. do Olival 42, 1200-742 Lisboa

It sounds French, and it tastes French. La Boulangerie is a French bakery with the most delicious croissants in Lisbon. You can sit inside and enjoy the detailed décor or sit outside on the terrace and enjoy the sun. We suggest you try their brunch menu . They have three options you can choose from, and it’s pet friendly. 

Neighborhood  

📍 Location:  Largo do Conde Barão 25, 1200-163 Lisboa

One of the coolest coffee and brunch restaurants in Lisbon , the Neighborhood Café , brings a great vibe to the coffee shop scene in Lisbon. The carrot cake is a must-try. In the afternoon, you can enjoy the outdoor seating with tasty local craft beers from Dois Corvo’s brewery . 

Copenhagen Coffee Lab and Bakery

Location: Av. Álvares Cabral 13C, 1250-015 Lisboa 📍 Location: Location: Av. Álvares Cabral 13C, 1250-015 Lisboa

Copenhagen Coffee Lab and Bakery is the place to have some great coffee and dessert . Try the cardamom bun and the cinnamon bun. They are very authentic and delicious . This café is your go-to place in Lisbon if you want to buy fresh coffee beans. They grow their beans in Copenhagen and distribute them to their stores.  

Plan your Vacation: Where to Stay in Estrela 

Your accommodation research in Estrela, or anywhere in Lisbon depends on whether you are a tourist or planning to relocate.

You can find various short-term vacation possibilities on Airbnb. We recommend you book ahead of time to get a pleasant hotel room, especially during Lisbon’s high season, which runs from April to October.

But there are also a few places we can recommend. The  Hotel da Estrela , formerly a palace overlooking the Tagus River, is one option.

If you enjoy hotels with rooftop patios, try   As Janales Verde , which translates to “The Green Windows” and accurately depicts what to expect. It is directly next to the Ancient Art Museum and is furnished in the Portuguese style, with a remarkable library and a gorgeous garden.

If you are looking for a longer-term rental, Idealista is an appropriate place to search.

Moving to Estrela: Is it Expensive? 

Since the 1700s, Estrela has been considered the favorite residence of Lisbon’s bourgeoisie. As a result, its wide streets are lined with neoclassical mansions and small palaces that now house decoration and antique shops. And to this day, it is the official residence of the Portuguese prime minister. 

Therefore, if we are talking about rentals and real estate, yes, Estrela is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Lisbon . The price of the square meter, as per real estate agents, varies between €5,500 and €8,000, with investments expected to increase in value as many foreigners are moving to the city. Estrela’s quiet location, great amenities, and services turned the neighborhood into the hot spot in town. 

If you are looking for rental options, a T2 (two-bedroom) unfurnished apartment is anywhere between €1000-1400, whereas a furnished apartment with the same dimensions will cost you between €1500-1900 monthly.

It is worth mentioning that Portugal has seen a peak in its real estate prices following the pandemic. The upsurge of people working remotely and the facilities Portugal is bringing in with their non-habitual visas, like the D7 and Digital Nomad Visa, have significantly affected real estate prices.

Living in Estrela: Things to Consider

Estrela is a popular family spot. This is due, in part, to Estrela’s abundance of green spaces, where you can spend time with family or friends . The area is a blend of Portuguese and ex-pats. 

Estrela is considered a calm neighborhood. The only thing you might hear now and then is the yellow trams traveling through its principal streets. Estrela offers good access to many amenities, such as health care, excellent schools, and a few co-working spaces for digital nomads .

As for public transportation, Estrela is well-connected to the rest of the city. However, the Estrela Metro station has yet to open and is still under construction. This might be aggravating at times, especially on weekends when you have to wait for the bus for 15 minutes.

Safety-wise, Estrela is a very safe neighborhood. Walking alone at night is not a problem, and the streets are brightly lit.

Estrela Neighborhood Guide: The Bottom Line 

Estrela has a lot to offer to compensate for its high real estate prices . It’s within walking distance of Principe Real, the chic neighborhood of Chiado, and Compo de Ourique. 

It is an ideal place to raise a family, with a wide variety of options for excellent schools and green spaces where children can play, and adults can just lie back and enjoy the sun and Lisbon’s fresh breeze. Most importantly, Estrela has a sizeable ex-pat community , so if you ever choose to move here, you will never feel alone.

Originally from Lebanon, Melanie came to Lisbon to find what she had always wanted: excellent cuisine, wonderful coffee, and a peaceful place to wander. After her working hours as a digital marketing professional, she enjoys reading, writing poetry and prose, and everything in between.

Melanie, an animal lover and pet parent of a golden retriever, is always looking for pet-friendly and green spaces where her pet can enjoy the sunny days.

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Hi, we are an older couple coming for first time to Llsbon April 17- April 21 . we can afford 100 dollars a night . please recommend an AirBB or …? any help would be greatly appreciated

Hi David, we do have an article about the best boutique hotels in Lisbon. You can read it here: https://nowinportugal.com/the-best-boutique-hotels-in-lisbon/

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The Serra da Estrela by car; a 1-day driving tour

The Serra da Estrela mountains offer some of the most dramatic natural scenery in Portugal.

These towering granite mountains include the highest point of Portugal (Torre 1993m), deep glacial valleys and quaint farming villages.

To explore the rugged lands of the Serra da Estrela a car is needed, but fortunately, the roads are of a good standard and even reach the summits. This article will provide a one-day driving tour of the Serra da Estrela, and has been designed to get the most from the region in just a single day. Related article: The Beira region

Highlights of a driving day tour of the Serra da Estrela

The spectacular Zêzere Valley carved out by an ancient glacier

Linhares da Beira, a delightful hilltop village with an imposing castle and traditional stone houses

The scenic mountain lake of Covão do Curral (image above) and the Comprida reservoir

Torre - The plateau summit of Serra da Estrela and the highest point of Portugal. Torre is actually a bit of a bleak place, with two ageing radar domes and a tourist shopping centre, but as it is the highest point, you will want to visit.

Over 60km of stunning mountainous roads, with every twist providing unique landscapes and picturesque views. This image is of the roading leading down the Zêzere valley to the town of Manteigas

A suggested 1-day tour of the Serra da Estrela

Below is the recommended 1-day driving route of the Serra da Estrela. The route, marked in green, begins in the village of Linhares and ends Zêzere valley. The most scenic sections of the driving tour are highlighted in red, while the grey markers show additional sights and the optional drive to Manteigas

Sights of the route: 1) Linhares (village) 2) Folgosinho (village) 3) Gouveia (town) 4) Sabugueiro (village) 5) Covão do Curral lake 6) Comprida reservoir 7) Torre summit 8) Senhora da Boa Estrela 9) Mirador do Vale Glaciar viewpoint 10) Covão d'Ametade 11) Vale Glaciar do Zêzere 12) Manteigas (town) 13) Penhas da Saúde (village) Note: Details of the entire route are given towards the end of the article

Warning: This driving tour is only from May to October when the weather is good. Always check the weather before departing as the Serra da Estrela mountains can have very changeable and unpredictable weather. We strongly advise against driving in the mountains if there is any chance of frost or snow – which can drift extremely high due to the strong winds.

For details about skiing in the Serra da Estrela, please see the official website http://www.skiserradaestrela.com

Why this route through the Serra da Estrela?

This route covers the best of the region, which can be realistically fitted into a single day of sightseeing.

The day begins in the pretty foothill villages of Linhares and Folgosinho; the morning is the best time to visit them when there are the fewest tourists and they are at their most tranquil.

The route has been designed so that the standard of the natural scenery is constantly improving throughout the day, and ends with the most spectacular landscapes (the section between the Torre peak to the Zêzere glacier valley). It is a shame to begin the day with the highlight, and then everything else is not as impressive.

All of the designated roads are of a high standard (wide enough for two cars to pass and lined with safety barriers on treacherous sections), there are no dirt or very narrow roads.

The larger towns of Covilhã, Seia and Manteigas are not included, but could be visited if you have longer in the region (though Viseu, Guarda, Monsanto and Trancoso are all much more historic and characterful).

The largest town on the route is Gouveia, and visiting this charming town could extend the day trip. Locations to stop for lunch could be in the touristy village of Sabugueiro, pretty Gouveia, or nondescript Penhas da Saúde.

The Torre Peak

Everyone is drawn to the Torre peak as it is the highest point in Portugal, but in actual fact, it is a bit disappointing. Instead of being a clear summit, it is a wide and flat plateau on which two ageing radar domes were constructed along with a tourist-focused shopping arcade. The actual summit (at 1993m) is in the centre of a large roundabout and is marked by a 7-meter-high stone pillar, just to make the point 2,000m!

Torre is only 520m from the main road (the N339), so we recommend driving in, seeing it, then heading onto the much more scenic areas to the south-east, and returning later if you have time.

The marker for Torre peak sits within a roundabout…..

The bitterly cold winters and reliable snow, have made Torre a centre for skiing, but in the summer the disused cable car adds to the bleakness of the region.

Details of the driving route

Linhares is a delightful medieval village set on the northwestern foothills of the Serra da Estrela. Within the village, cobbled streets lined with traditional rural granite houses meandering up to the impressive castle. Linhares is extremely charming and will be one of the highlights of the day trip.

The appearance of Linhares has barely altered in 500 years

The Castelo de Linhares with its views over the entire western Beira region

Folgosinho is another charming village, which perches on top of a craggy hill. The unique building of the village is the stone watchtower that stands at the top of the rock outcrop.

The view over Folgosinho from the watchtower

It is quite a climb to the top of the tower

Gouveia is a pretty town, of parks, plazas and views into the mountains. At the centre of the town is the Igreja de São Pedro church, with its exterior lined with blue and white tiles.

After Gouveia, the road starts to climb into the mountains and offers some wonderful viewpoints looking westwards. Along the route is the Cabeça do Velho (Old man's head) rock feature. Advice: The N232 eventually leads into the town of Manteigas, but the final section of the road has so many twists and switchbacks that it is best avoided (the road takes 15km to travel just the 1 km down the hill!). We suggest turning off before and heading to Sabugueiro.

The Cabeça do Velho, supposedly this looks like an old man….….

Sabugueiro is famous within Portugal as being the highest village in the country (1,250m).

The village originally sheltered shepherds and their sheep, to avoid the harsh winters on the upper slopes. Today Sabugueiro has a very touristy atmosphere, but is the best location for lunch, before heading into the more remote mountains. Insight: The region is famous for Quejio Serra da Estrela, a cheese produced from sheep's milk. In Sabugueiro there will be many shops selling this delicious cheese.

Apart from being very high up, Sabugueiro is not dissimilar from many other Portuguese towns

The reservoirs and lakes

After Sabugueiro, the road twists and climbs through the treeline to some barren but dramatic landscapes.

Within these windswept peaks are three reservoirs. The first lake to drive past is the Covão do Curral, and this one provides the most beautiful scenery. The road then runs along the base of the massive Marques da Silva dam, which holds back the largest body of water, the Lagoa Comprida. The third reservoir is the Covão do Forno and is reached via a scenic hiking trail from Comprida lake.

At the dam is a car park and this leads to a stone beach (known as the Praia da Lagoa Comprida) where it is possible to swim in the freezing waters. Insight: The Covao dos Conchos, with its famous flora covered bell-mouth spillway, is a 1-hour hike from Comprida lake.

The lakes are man-made to provide hydroelectricity, a reliable source of freshwater and to control the springtime snowmelt

After passing the Serra da Estrela ski resort (which can be missed as it is positioned lower than the road) the road climbs to the junction with for Torre. As indicated above, you will want to see the Torre complex but will probably leave a bit underwhelmed.

Torre is not much to look at….

West of Torre and to the Zêzere valley

Some of the most spectacular scenery of the Serra da Estrela is found to the west of the Torre plateau.

Advice: This area is the most popular for sightseeing, but as it is so mountainous, there are few decent pull-ins or car parks. For the tour, we suggest driving through the area twice; once downhill to Covão d'Ametade (or the town of Manteigas) and then uphill, on the return to your accommodation (via the town of Seia and the N17) The first feature along the road is the Cântaro Magro, a craggy granite outcrop, which can be viewed from the pull-in on the N339 road.

The Cântaro Magro, one of the most challenging climbing peaks in the Serra da Estrela

Slightly downhill is the Senhora da Boa Estrela, an image of Mary carved into the side of a granite cliff face. The carving dates from 1947, and is of the patron saint of the shepherds who worked these inhospitable lands.

The Nava de San Antonio is a flat plateau between the steep Alforia valley (to the north) and the Zêzere valley (south). The glacier which once covered the plateau pushed the boulders from the central grasslands and condensed them on the northern side. Tilting at the top of the ridge is the massive Poio do Judeu, the largest bolder in the Serra da Estrela.

The Nava de San Antonio, with the Cântaro Magro to the right and the peat grasslands on the left

The Alforia valley drops steeply down from the Nava de San Antonio and high above the valley is the Padre Alfredo dam and lake.

The Padre Alfredo dam

Once driven around the Nava de San Antonio turn left (northwards) towards Manteigas, which then drops down into the Zêzere valley. 20,000 years ago this "L" shaped glacial valley had an ice thickness of over 300m and extended for almost 7.5km. Today, huge boulders are scattered through the deep valley, and a stream (the Rio Zêzere) runs the length.

Looking down into the Zêzere valley

Covão d'Ametade is a rustic camping site set amidst dramatic natural scenery, and there is a pleasant short walk to the Nascente do Rio Zêzere (source of the river Zêzere). There is also a large car park which also helps!

The day trip could be extended by continuing down the valley to Manteigas, but the road narrows and all of the best natural scenery as at the top of the valley.

The town of Manteigas looking up the Zêzere valley

End of the Serra da Estrella tour

To leave the Serra da Estrela, the best route is along the N339 either west to Seia or east Covilhã. The N232 east from Manteigas to Belmonte is another good road, but it ends on the eastern side of the Serra da Estrela. Advice: The N232 to the west has so many switchbacks and turns it is best avoided.

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20 best things to do in Serra da Estrela – Trails, waterfalls, villages, and more

With a maximum altitude of 1993 meters, Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain in mainland Portugal and the only place where you can practice snow sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. But it’s much more than that.

Serra da Estrela Natural Park is ideal for nature lovers – it has trails to explore, waterfalls, lakes, granite formations, and picturesque villages.

In addition, the Serra da Estrela Natural Park has excellent geological importance, being recognized by UNESCO with the status of Estrela Geopark – since it presents traces of the last glaciation that occurred 30 thousand years ago.

This guide will give you all the information you need to plan a magnificent trip to Serra da Estrela Natural Park. We will talk about the places to visit, including geosites, waterfalls, villages, lakes, trails, where to stay, and what to eat, among many other things.

Geosites and other main attractions in Serra da Estrela Natural Park

Torre (tower).

Torre is at the top of Serra da Estela mountain and the highest point in mainland Portugal, with 1993 meters of altitude. At the top of the mountain is a geodesic landmark that King D. João VI built in the 19th century. The landmark is 7 meter-high to complete the 2000 meters altitude.

Torre is one of the most popular places in Portugal as it is one of Portugal’s best places to find winter snow. It even has a resort with ski slopes and chairlifts where you can practice snow sports. But if you prefer, you can just play in the snow or go sledding.

At the top of Serra da Estrela is a shopping center selling regional products such as the famous Serra da Serra cheese, sausages, and ham. They also sell wool clothing and snow sports materials, such as sledding. It has a cafe selling hot drinks and a bathroom.

If you want to know the weather at the top of Serra da Estrela, click here .

Serra da Estrela ski resort

The ski resort is located in the Serra da Estrela tower. Here is the ideal place to ski or snowboard in Portugal. The resort has several slopes with different levels of difficulty.

For times when there is less snow, the resort has an artificial snow generator that ensures 120 to 150 days of snow.

Also, Ski or Snowboard lessons are available, and you can rent equipment. If you want to know more information about prices and schedules, click here on the official website.

Bread Museum, Seia

The Bread Museum in Seia is a museum dedicated to bread. The museum explores the bread production cycle and its social and religious importance. It’s a museum for all bread and food lovers and a great place to learn about this simple cooking ingredient.

In the museum, there is also a shop where you can buy regional products from Serra da Estrela, such as sausages and cheese, as well as bread from Serra da Estrela that is produced in the museum. A restaurant also serves food from Beira and incorporates bread into the main dishes.

We have to mention that Serra da Estrela bread is delicious. When you go there, you have to take the opportunity to buy and try the bread.

Zêzere Glacier Valley

The Zêzere Glacier Valley is known for its “U” shape. It has this format due to the existence of a glacier that shaped the landscape and is composed of steep slopes covered with granite stones.

The valley has an extension of 13 km that goes from the Central Massif of the Serra to the village of Manteigas. The Zêzere Glacier Valley is one of the largest glacier valleys in Europe.

There are two ways to appreciate this geological formation. You can enjoy the Zêzere Glacier Valley on the road that connects Manteigas to the Tower on National Road 338. Or from the viewpoint that is located near the tower on the N 339 road.

From this viewpoint, you can appreciate the extension of this valley, especially when there is no snow. When there is snow, perceiving the valley’s famous “U” shape is more difficult.

One way to explore the glacial valley is to walk the 17 km Glaciar Route trail that goes from Torre to Manteigas.

Our Lady of Boa Estrela

Our Lady of Boa Estrela is a 7-meter statue carved into the rock in Covão do Boi. Our Lady of Boa Estrela is the patron saint of shepherds.

António Duarte sculpted the statue in 1946 to honor the saint of shepherds. Every year, on the second Sunday of August, there is a celebration in honor of the saint.

The statue can be found on Nacional 339 on the way to the Torre if you come from Manteigas or Covilhã. It is possible to reach the statue via a set of stairs from the viewpoint of the road.

Cabeça do Velho (Old Man’s Head)

The Old Man’s Head is a granite rock formation with a profile of an old man that was formed with erosion. There are several rock formations in Serra da Estrela, but the Cabeça do Velho is the most famous and is a rite of passage for the Portuguese when they visit Serra da Estrela.

The head of the Old Man is located on National Road 232, between Manteigas and Gouveia. Plus, it’s worth stopping by to take a picture and be part of the ritual.

Covão da Ametade

Covão da Ametade is one of the most beautiful places in Serra da Estrela Natural Park. It is located at the beginning of the Zêzere Glacier Valley and also has a glacial origin.

In the valley, you will find the bed of the river Zêzere, which rises in the mountain range and gains volume in Covão da Ametade. The river is surrounded by trees, mainly birch trees, creating a beautiful setting. It has a pick nick area and lots of places to relax. It is also the starting point of several trails and a good place for mountaineering.

It’s a lovely spot, especially in summer and spring. In winter, when it is covered by snow, it may not be accessible.

The covão da Ametade is located on National Road 338 between Manteigas and Torre. And it is a mandatory place to visit in Serra da Estrela.

Covão dos Conchos

Covão dos Cochos is an artificial lake in Serra da Estrela. This lagoon has a peculiarity, it has a funnel in the middle that looks like a portal out of a science fiction movie.

The funnel is not a portal but a tunnel that connects the covão of the troughs to the long lagoon. The 1.5 km tunnel was built to drain the waters of Ribeira das Nevas, making the lagoon a surprising and fascinating place.

Covão dos Conchos is only accessible on foot. There is a 5 km trail that starts from the long lagoon that goes to Covão dos Cochos. The trail is not difficult, but when there is snow, it is not recommended as it can become dangerous.

What to visit in Serra da Estrela – Villages, Towns, and Typical Cities

Folgosinho is one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Serra da Estrela. Located in the municipality of Gouveia, it is at an altitude of 930 meters. It is known as the birthplace of Viriato, a famous warrior who fought to expel the Romans from the Iberian Peninsula.

The village has a small but lovely castle that sits on a quartz lode, making the place different and fascinating. The village also has a fountain with tiles with funny sayings.

But one of the village’s main attractions is the Albertino Restaurant, where you can eat until you can’t eat any more delicious food.

Sabugueiro is known for being the highest village in Portugal. It is generally a place of passage to reach Torre. Located at an altitude of 1120 m, it should be noted that despite its fame, it is not the highest village in Portugal.

It is a typical mountain village with granite houses, a community oven, still working, and the famous blacksmith fountain. Plus, how could it not have a typical church?

The village is said to have emerged from a cluster of shepherds’ huts. In addition to all this, it is the birthplace of the renowned Serra da Estrela dogs.

As if that weren’t reason enough to visit the village, it’s a place where you can find delicious mountain food.

Linhares da Beira

Linhares da Beira is one of the 12 Historical villages of Portugal. Visiting the village is like going to an open-air museum, going back to medieval times in the 17th century.

The village has several points of interest, including a beautiful castle, the Jewish house, the Solar da Corte Real and Pina Aragão, a Roman road, and several medieval churches. This village will enchant anyone who loves history.

But in addition to its historical testimony, the village is lovely and well preserved with a granite house and small alleys. It’s very captivating.

Belmonte is another of the 12 Historical Villages in Portugal. The village’s name is related to the place where it was built, Belo Monte. But it’s not just the mountain that is beautiful, the village is very charming on its own.

The village is known for being the birthplace of Pedro Alves Cabral, who discovered the sea route to Brazil. There is a statue in his honor. It also has a medieval castle and an impressive Jewish quarter. For many years, there was a considerable Jewish community in Belmonte.

Belmonte is a great place to discover Serra da Estrela and learn about the history of Portugal.

Guarda is the highest city in Portugal at an altitude of 1056 m. It is one of the most important cities in Serra da Estrela, the capital of the Guarda District.

Sometimes, Guarda is overlooked on a trip to Serra da Estrela, but it’s a shame as the city has a lot to see and do. It is also the perfect base to visit the Mondego Walkways and other attractions in the northern part of Serra da Estrela.

One of the main things to do in Guarda is to visit the Sé da Guarda. It is one of the most beautiful churches in the country. It also has the advantage of climbing to the cathedral’s roof and enjoying the surrounding landscape. It also has a castle and walls.

What to do in Serra da Estrela – Trails and Hiking

Mondego walkways.

The Mondego walkways are one of the most beautiful walkways in Portugal. The walkways connect the village of Videmonte to the Caldeirão dam near Guarda. It is possible to hike the trail in both directions.

The route is beautiful, following the Mondego River and surrounded by mountains. The trail is mainly made on footbridges, but parts are mountain paths. It is 12 km one way and has moderate difficulty due to the distance and having to go up and down many stairs.

However, the effort is rewarded by enjoying the magnificent landscapes of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park.

Poço do Inferno trail (Hell’s Pit trail)

The Poço do Inferno route runs from Manteigas to the Poço do Inferno waterfall. The trail is only 2.5 km long but is a technically challenging route.

It is not recommended for people with mobility difficulties and a fear of heights. On the other hand, it has spectacular views and a beautiful waterfall at the end.

Trail to Covão dos Conchos

As mentioned before, Covão dos Conchos is an artificial lagoon with a tunnel in the middle. To get to Covão dos Conchos, you must take a 5 km trail from Lagoa Comprida.

In addition to the lake being a remarkable site, the route is beautiful. It is in the middle of Serra da Estrela at an altitude of 1500 m, with the mountain range’s rocky landscape and undergrowth characteristic. This trail is not technically challenging, but you must hike 10 km there and back.

We do not recommend making this trail when there is snow since the ground is very rocky and can become dangerous.

Where to go in Serra da Estrela? Waterfalls and Lagoons

Rossim valley lagoon.

The Vale do Rossim lagoon is an artificial lagoon created with the creation of a dam. It is located in a glacial valley at an altitude of 1437 m.

In addition to the valley being extremely beautiful, the lagoon has the advantage of having a river beach in the summer with a lifeguard. It has an area with sand where you can put your towel and areas with shadows. The water is not very cold as the lagoon is not deep.

The Vale do Rossim lagoon is close to Aldeia das Penas Douradas, an area with many accommodations, from hotels or Eco Resorts to camping.

Lagoa Comprida (Long Lagoon)

The Long Lagoon is a natural lagoon on which a dam was built with the aim of hydroelectric production. It is the largest lake and the main water reservoir in Serra da Estrela.

The long lagoon receives water through underground tunnels from Covão dos Conchos and Covão do Meio. It is a beautiful lagoon at an altitude of 1600 m in Serra da Estrela. In winter, it is usually covered with ice.

The lagoon is found on Nacional 339 on the way to Torre for those coming from the village of Sabogueiro or Seia.

Loriga river beach

The river beach of Loriga is one of the best river beaches in Portugal. It is even distinguished from the Blue Flag.

It is located in a glacial valley 1 km from the village of Loriga. It is formed by several terraces and small lakes bathed by the Loriga stream.

It has excellent access conditions with a parking lot for cars and bicycles. A bar with a terrace, a park for children, a WC, and a pick-nick area. It is a river beach guarded by lifeguards.

Poço do Inferno Waterfall

The Poço do Inferno waterfall is impressive, over 10 meters high, and located 10 km from Manteigas. It is formed by the waters of the Ribeira de Leandres, creating a lagoon with very fresh and transparent water.

To visit the waterfall, you can go by car, take a 3-minute walk, and climb some stairs to a viewpoint where you can enjoy the waterfall, the Zêzere, and the Manteigas valley.

Or, if you prefer, you can take the 2.5 km trail mentioned above – the Poço do Inferno Route.

It is possible to bathe in the Poço do Inferno lagoon, but we only recommend it in summer as the water is extremely cold.

Poço da Broca Waterfall

The Poço da Broca waterfall resulted from human intervention that diverted the course of the river water, creating an incredible waterfall and well. The aim was to reuse water for agriculture and make the region fertile.

Indirectly, they created one of the most famous river beaches in Serra da Estrela. You can swim in the crystal clear waters at Poço da Broca, but remember that the water is very cold. And if you go up the river, you’ll find more waterfalls and wells.

Near the waterfall is a restaurant called Guarda Rio that serves traditional Portuguese food.

Where to Stay in Serra da Estrela

One of the best places to stay in Serra da Estrela is Penhas da Saúde. Located in the heart of Serra da Estrela, close to the tower and the ski resort. Manteigas, Seia, and Covilhã are also areas with various hotels and are well located.

• Luna Hotel Serra da Estrela

Located in Penhas da Saúde, this is a comfortable and relaxing hotel. With a beautiful traditional restaurant with delicious food. With an indoor and outdoor pool. It’s a great mountain getaway. Book your stay here.

• Pousada da Serra da Estrela

It is located in Penhas da Saúde and is a historic inn, one of the oldest in Serra da Estrela. It has a spa area with indoor and outdoor pools and a gym. It has beautiful decor and is located near the tower. See prices and availability here.

• H2otel Congress & Medical SPA

The H2otel hotel is expensive, but staying overnight is a fabulous experience. It is well worth coming to Serra da Estrela just to stay in this hotel. It has a spa area with several pools with hot water, even outdoors, Turkish baths, and saunas. And it serves a hearty breakfast.

It is a place that we strongly recommend, but its quality is reflected in its availability. It is almost impossible to book rooms without being well in advance. See if there are rooms available and book here.

• HI Serra da Estrela – Youth Hostel

This is an ideal budget hostel if you want a comfortable but affordable place to stay. It has a good quality/price ratio. You have the option of staying in a shared or private room. And best of all, breakfast is included. We’ve stayed there before and recommend it. See prices and availability here.

What to eat in Serra da Estrela

• Serra da Estela cheese is mandatory, you cannot come to Serra and not eat the cheese. It is a buttery, cured cheese made with sheep’s cheese. It is usually eaten with bread from Serra da Estrela.
• Cabrito is another typical dish of this region. Usually baked in the oven accompanied with potatoes, it is delicious.
• Juniper Rice is malandro rice with juniper (wild berries used to flavor) and sausages.
• Wild boar is a specialty from Serra da Estrela and is usually stewed.
• Talassas is a typical sweet from Covilhã.
• Serra Biscuits, also known as crests.

Where to eat in Serra da Estrela

• O Albertino – An obligatory stop in Serra da Estrela located in Folgosinho. You pay per person, and you can eat whatever you want. And it’s all so good. The house’s specialty is roasted suckling pig and kid, rice with rabbit giblets, wild boar with beans, and finally, custard, rice pudding, and curd cheese with pumpkin jam.
• Varanda da Estrela – Located in Penhas da Saúde. It is a restaurant with delicious food and a cozy, authentic mountain hut with a roaring fireplace. The specialty of the house is juniper rice.
• As Thermas – Restaurant in Unhais da Serra with typical food from Serra da Estrela

How to get to Serra da Estrela

Public transport.

There is no adequate public transport to visit Serra da Estrela as a tourist. You can take a bus to Seia from Porto and to Covilhã from Lisbon, but then you have to take a taxi to the tower or most of the attractions mentioned in this article.

The best option is to go by car or on an organized tour.

Going to Serra da Estrela from Lisbon or Porto is not easy. You have to go on several highways and mountain paths. Also, the road to the Serra da Estrela tower is sometimes closed due to snow.

But it is the best option to go to Serra da Estrela.

From Lisbon, the best way to reach Serra da Estrela is via the A1 and A23 motorways and then the national road. It is 300 km long and takes 3h30. The highways are paid, and you can pay the toll with cash or a card.

From Porto, the best way is to take the A1 and A25 motorways and then the National road. It is 200 km long and takes 2h40. The highway is paid, and you can pay the toll with cash or a card.

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The Top Things to See and Do in Serra da Estrela, Portugal

The highest mountain range in continental Portugal , the Serra da Estrela offers all manner of things to see and do for travellers of every stripe.

Portugal might be best known for its sandy beaches and surf, but it’s also home to Serra da Estrela, a protected 888sqkm (343sqmi) park boasting the country’s highest mountain peaks. In this region, you’ll find icy lakes and granite outcrops towering above thickly wooded valleys and rushing rivers. This beautiful natural landscape is dotted with charming villages and is a great spot for hiking, climbing and skiing as well for spotting quirky cultural sights.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Hike up Torre Mountain

Visit Piódão

A hotchpotch village on a valley side and surrounded by lush pastureland, mountain springs and evergreen forest. The stacked arrangement of houses is much like an amphitheatre and at night, when the lights are turned on, the village looks magnificent. The winding narrow streets were built from local stone and it is said that the window frames are all blue because the one shop only had blue paint to sell. Enjoy a step back into an ancient time.

Hike from Manteigas to the Poço de Inferno

This hike is on a 7.5km (5mi) loop inside the Serra da Estrela Park and it’s the perfect day hike for fit intermediate hikers. The village of Manteigas is located at an altitude of 700m (2297ft) at the end of the ancient Zezere valley and the best time to hike from here is spring and summer. The hike will take you across rocky terrain and meadows to the Poço do Inferno waterfall, which descends a steep gorge of Ribeira de Lenadres and offers incredible valley views.

Hit the slopes at Estância de Ski

Skiing in Portugal – who would have thought? The Serra da Estrela is one of the only places that gets enough snow for skiing and has the only fully-equipped ski resort in the country. The resort is open from November to April and, with only four ski lifts, it is on the small side. Still, with 130m (427ft) of vertical descents and nine pistes in total, the novelty factor of skiing in sunny Portugal makes it worthwhile and facilities are good. The nearest airport is in Porto.

Visit the Cheese Museum in Pêraboa

Hold your nose and learn the full story of cheese-making in Serra da Estrela. This cheese museum – Museu do Queijo – is located in the small village of Pêraboa. The museum’s guide, Pedro, will share funny and fascinating yarns about the docile sheep and witty shepherds who have lived in these mountains for centuries while you try samples of what is known as the king of Portuguese cheese. Made from raw sheep’s milk, it is soft with a rich, intense flavour.

Savour local produce at O Albertino

A rustic family-run mountain restaurant that thrives on the views from its windows and local produce such as Serra da Estrela cheese and sausages from the family’s farm produced using ancient smoking methods. You can also buy dried sausages, cured cheese and rye bread to take home with you after enjoying a delicious tasting menu including liqueurs and coffee.

Marvel at the Senhora da Boa Estrela

A spectacular landmark in Covão do Boi, right in the heart of the Estrela mountains, this bas-relief sculpture was carved into the rock by António Duarte in 1946 to represent Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela, the protector Saint of the Shepherds. The sculpture is more than 7m (23ft) high and stands as a reminder of how important sheep-related products are to this region. A festival here every August always attracts a big local crowd.

Stop-off at the beautiful Igreja de Santa Maria

Hands down one of the most beautiful churches in Portugal, if not the world. Standing in the heart of Covilhã’s historic centre, the 16th-century Igreja de Santa Maria’s facade is entirely clad in blue and white hand-painted tiles depicting the life of the Virgin Mary. This traditional creation, added in the 20th-century, contrasts markedly with the street art that appears on several nearby walls. Inside are no less than 11 altars.

Browse the collection at the Museu Municipal de Arte Moderna Abel Manta

Inside this gorgeous 18th-century manor house you’ll be able to browse a collection of paintings by one of Portugal’s most distinguished and controversial modernist artists, Abel Manta. Around 23 of his works are on display, along with paintings by other well-known Portuguese artists including his son, João Abel Manta. Look out for fine baroque details on the doors and windows.

Visit Covão dos Conchos

One of the most amazing sights in the Serra da Estrela is without a doubt a waterfall-like hole in the middle of a lake. Although it looks like a mysterious natural phenomenon, this hole was created in the 1950s to direct water from the Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida . While it is possible to visit this spot on foot, the hike isn’t for beginners and becomes more difficult during the winter months, so visitors are cautioned to do their research first and be careful.

Nina Santos has contributed additional reporting to this article .

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This Portugal Mountain Range Is Home to Tiny Medieval Towns, Locally Made Beer, and Hidden Swimming Holes

The centuries-old villages of the Serra da Estrela, in Portugal’s Centro region, make for an easy, evocative road trip. Kieran Dahl gets lost in the magic of the mountains.

After driving up to the summit of Torre, the highest peak in Portugal's Serra da Estrela mountain range, I had a childlike urge to climb even closer to the clouds. I spotted a narrow concrete plinth and hoisted myself onto it. Finding my balance, I raised my arms shakily in triumph. "Do you realize," I called down to my girlfriend, Diana, "that I'm higher up than every single person in continental Portugal?"

She rolled her eyes, unmoved. Never mind that we'd driven up a long, winding road to Torre's summit. Diana had been skeptical of my idea to head straight for the mountains. This was, after all, a country shaped by the Atlantic Ocean, with coastal cities , balmy beaches , and seafood in abundance. Now, I felt vindicated.

All that climbing and driving had left us famished, so we scoured the Centro Comercial da Torre (351-911-546-037) , a cramped general store filled with cured meats, sheepskin-lined clothes, liqueurs, and local dairy products. I bought a loaf of bread, a chunk of tangy cheese, and two seven-ounce bottles of Super Bock, the unofficial beer of Portugal.

Outside the store, sitting on its sweeping back deck, we could hear the skeletal chairlift of the country's lone ski resort, idly twisting in the wind until next winter. The aging towers of the abandoned observatory glinted in the summer sun. We ate our peaceful picnic while staring out at the drama of the Serra da Estrela.

That morning, we'd driven nearly three hours south from Porto through the Centro region, which stretches across the heart of Portugal from the Atlantic Ocean to Spain. We wanted to explore the rugged environs of the Serra da Estrela, and get a sense of the area's rich history.

In the 1600s and 1700s, the Portuguese-Spanish border was a violently contested battleground. Settlements were transformed into fortified villages, strategically located on hilltops; some date as far back as the 12th century. Today, 12 of these towns make up a government-designated network known as the Historical Villages of Portugal.

We hadn't factored white-knuckle driving into the equation. With me behind the wheel and Diana in the passenger seat, we drove 45 minutes down the zigzagging road from Torre, stopping at a 25-foot bas-relief sculpture carved into the side of a mountain. The work depicts Senhora da Boa Estrela, the protector saint of the shepherds. We parked on the roadside and ascended a small set of stairs to the statue's base, looking up at the two-story saint in awe.

Our final destination that day was Belmonte, a city of 7,000 built around a Roman-era castle. We checked in to the Pousada Convento de Belmonte , a 13th-century monastery that has been converted into an elegant hotel. The building's ecclesiastical past gave it an air of weighty stillness. The living room had once been a chapel, and still had a vaulted ceiling. Diana and I spoke in hushed tones, as if back in Sunday school, and slept deeply in our tranquil bedroom. In the morning, we watched from the stone-lined swimming pool as the sun rose over the jagged peaks of the Serra da Estrela.

Refreshed, we got back in the car and drove toward the castle, past houses decorated with flowering window boxes. Little more than the exterior walls of Belmonte's castle remain. From its ornately carved window, looking out over the green shades of the Zêzere valley, I tried to picture the medieval past, the armored knights who once protected the structure. We drove to the Torre de Centum Cellas, a crumbling structure from the Roman period. Historians have never been able to determine whether it was used as a temple, a prison, a villa, or something else entirely. Its open-air ruins reminded me of a crown, the battlements silhouetted against the purple sky.

In the early evening, we set out for the Quinta da Barroquinha , a quaint cottage set on a seven-acre farm near Vale de Prazeres and the perfect home base for the next two nights. The cottage had once been a shepherd's hut; the rough stone walls and woodstove showed its past lives. After our host welcomed us with a small bottle of olive oil made on the property, Diana and I cooked pasta and split a bottle of Portuguese red on the patio. As we ate, the scattered lights of the valley gave way to twinkling stars.

After stopping for breakfast the next morning in the nearby town of Alpedrinha — by now, "pastéis de nata" and "café, por favor" had become our daily refrain — we drove up a rocky hill to Monsanto, a village that is built beneath, between, and atop enormous granite boulders. The tiny cobblestoned lanes are too narrow for cars, so we walked through the streets marveling at the stone walls. We saw a house with a roof formed by a globular mass of granite. Boulders on either side of another property squeezed it like a corset. One home was carved directly into the rock, with a low-slung wooden door.

From the impressively preserved ramparts of the castle that crowns Monsanto, we could see for a hundred miles in any direction. Birds floated on the wind at our eye level; the sun was strong overhead, and we felt beads of sweat on our foreheads. To get out of the heat, we skittered downhill to the homey Taverna Lusitana . We sat on its terrace at a minuscule table, on seats that had been carved out of boulders, and shared a pizza and beers from the taverna's own brand, Cerveja de Guerreiros. The ice-cold mugs soothed our sunburned faces. In the corner of the terrace, an artist was sketching the valley. The drawing depicted everything from the stretch of land below to the village's barrocais , or "chaos of blocks," that shape several old towns like this across the region.

After leaving Monsanto, we explored Castelo Branco, a Templar stronghold that dates back to the early 1200s. All that remains of its castle is a wall and two crumbling towers. The garden, Jardim do Paco Episcopa, verdant and blooming, brought the whole experience to life for us. We wandered through the maze of waist-high hedges to a chorus of delicately trickling fountains, imagining the lives of the first inhabitants.

A short drive away, we arrived at a remote village, Penha Garcia, where a well-worn path brought us to the highest point in town. From there, signs directed us on a two-mile tour through a series of narrow streets.

We passed old mills, rocks containing fossils that locals called "painted snakes," and a natural pool. We hadn't thought to bring bathing suits and towels, so the water's alluring, blue-green tint may as well have been a mirage. But looking at the map, we saw that farther down the gorge lay another, more isolated body of water, a man-made reservoir ringed by an empty beach.

A bumpy off-road drive tested our rental car's mettle, but it led us to this quieter spot. Alone but for the pine trees rustling in the summer breeze, we decided to skinny-dip in the placid pool. As I swam in lazy circles, Diana retreated to the shore to eat cheese and smoked sausage. When I looked back at her, she was holding a lemon she'd plucked from a tree, as round and large as an apple. The past was tangible here, on a remote edge of Portugal, in the shadow of an ancient castle.

A version of this story first appeared in the July 2022 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline "Time Travel."

HELPING YOU PLAN YOUR PERFECT TRIP TO PORTUGAL

Why the serra da estrela is the star of central portugal.

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Mainland Portugal’s highest mountain, at 1993 metres altitude, is called the Estrela, which means Star. I’m fortunate that the Serra da Estrela mountain range is only an hour and a half drive from where I live in central Portugal but it’s about 3 hours from Lisbon and 2.5 from Porto.

Dotted with remote villages, river beaches and patches of forest, the dramatically beautiful landscape is strewn with granite boulders that form interesting shapes like devil’s horns and an old man’s head.

This magnificent mountain range is the largest protected area in the country and Portugal’s only ski resort.

Not being a fan of the cold or getting stuck on icy roads, I have no strong desire to drive up there in the winter, although people often do it just to see the snow. I did accidentally go snow hiking in the Serra da Estrela , which was other-worldly.

It’s also where the famous Serra da Estrela sheep’s cheese comes from so it’s not uncommon to hear the muted clanging of sheep and goat bells near the villages.

You can sample some cheese and wonderful landscapes on this half day off road tour.

As well as cheese, you’ll also find woolen socks and sheepskin slippers and rugs for sale in local shops. Even it’s not practical for you to buy a whole cheese, I recommend having a sandwich while you’re there.

Hiking in the Serra da Estrela

Sadly, as in much of Portugal , hiking independently in the Serra da Estrela can still be a rather hit and miss affair. The Visit Portugal website claims that there are 375 km of marked trails but it can be a challenge to track them down and follow a whole one from start to finish.

That said, the new Passadiços do Mondego, aka the Mondego Boardwalks, is an easy way to appreciate parts of the countryside that were previously extremely challenging or impossible to walk. Read my in depth account of what to expect here.

Otherwise, if you’re on holiday, I recommend going with a guide if possible to make sure you don’t get lost.

At the very least, make sure you’ve got a trail route downloaded onto your phone but it’s best to check with your accommodation or the Serra da Estrela Interpretation Centre (CISE) to find out about the status of local routes before setting off.

Here are some of my experiences of walking in these mountains:

Lapa dos Dinheiros Rota da Caniça trail 

I did this marked 7 km circular trail with Helen from Espirito da Liberdade , who also drove me there from a town near Coimbra, as part of the service that she offers to clients who want to explore the trails in central Portugal on foot.

Starting in the village of Lapa dos Dinheiros, we followed the hiking trail through an ancient forest to reach the river beach. Even though it was out of season, the water is crystal clear and inviting.

We took a slight detour to see some waterfalls then enjoyed the views on the way to the irrigation channels that lead to a quirky rock formation called Cornos do Diabo. The return to the village was through a pine forest and offered amazing views of the surrounding landscape. 

The PR10 (SEI) Rota da Caniça walk was challenging in parts, so it was comforting to go with someone who knows the route and to have the back up of a support vehicle waiting nearby. It is quite well marked so in theory you could do it independently but make sure you are adequately equipped and reasonably fit – it’s not suitable for everyone.

If you want to stay overnight in lapa dos Dinheiros, there’s actually a beautiful, modern 5-star hotel in the village with 3 pools and a spa, called Casas da Lapa Nature & Spa Hotel .

A botched attempt at walking the Shepherd’s Path

In the part of the mountain range known as Penhas da Saude (Crags of Health), the fresh mountain air was found to be beneficial for people suffering from tuberculosis and a sanitorium was built here in 1944, along with private houses.

Nowadays, a motley collection of houses, hotels and cafés mildly mars the natural beauty of the landscape but you only need to walk a short distance to be well away from manmade structures.

My friend and I set off confidently from our hotel, map in hand, intending to walk the Senda dos Pastores (Shepherd’s Path). It wasn’t long before we started to wonder how useful the route leaflet would prove to be. The short answer is not very!

Unless things have improved in the last couple of years, there are no trail markers and, although the landscape is spectacular, it was impossible to follow the trail. 

We did have an adventure trying to work out where to go, and met some goats and a giant sheepdog, but in the end, we abandoned hope and followed the road back to our hotel rather than risk getting lost in the mountains. Next time, I want a guide!

Walking to “the naval” at Covão dos Conchas

You may have seen mysterious photos of a magical-looking sink hole in a lake in Portugal and it’s nickname is the naval, as in belly button. It’s actually an overflow pipe that drains from the small Covão dos Conchas lake into the Lagoa Comprida reservoir.

I’ve done this easy linear walk (approx 10 km in total there and back) several times now and felt confident enough to try it without a guide the last time I went as it’s quite straightforward and also a popular route so there are other walkers around should you need help.

I still haven’t seen it at its photogenic best – it’s either been covered in ice or the water level has been so low that you can see the rim of the concrete pipe, which removes the mystery and magic somewhat. But it’s still a nice walk and you can swim in Lagoa Comprida when you make your way back to the car park.

Practicalities : If doing this without a guide, park at Lagoa Comprida and follow the trail behind the café/gift shop, passing the lake on your right. When you reach a house overlooking the lake, keep left at the fork to stay on the main trail and follow it around to the smaller lake. When you’re done, retrace your steps.

Panoramic Walking Route of the Loriga Valley

We asked in the local tourist information office about hiking trails near Loriga and chose the easiest one, a circular route that took around 2 hours.

This was a largely successful walk with good views and a reasonably well-marked trail, at the time. You can read more about our experience of the walk and river beach in my article about Loriga .

Other things to see and do in the Serra da Estrela

Look out for rock formations .

Although the landscape varies considerably within the Serra da Estrela, there’s no escaping the mounds of rounded granite boulders that litter it. 

Much like cloud formations, only more permanent, some of these clusters resemble animals or humans. One of the most famous is the Cabeça do Velho (Old Man’s Head) on the N232 between the villages of Gouveias and Manteigas.

Visit Manteigas to see a traditional wool factory/museum with a twist

Once you start the descent into Manteigas, however, the road meanders through mature pine forest before reaching the glacial valley in which the village sits. If you don’t like hairpin bends, this is not for you!

For me, the highlight of the village is the Burel factory, which used the original machinery to process wool then turn it into colourful, modern pieces. You can read more about the Burel fabric and factory in this article .

In theory, there is a walking trail through the village but, even armed with maps, we were unable to successfully follow the Village Route so I suggest you do what we did and just pick streets that look interesting. 

Poço do Inferno waterfall

In English, Poço do Inferno means Hell’s Well, which is a strange name for such a pretty spot. I’m sure it’s much scarier in winter when the full force of the waterfall is surging through the rocks but in summer there’s barely a trickle pouring into the pool of clear water.

Just make sure you’re wearing non-slip shoes because you’ll need to negotiate some awkward steps around the rocks to get to a rickety wooden bridge to fully appreciate the waterfall.

There is, in theory, another hiking trail that incorporates Poço do Inferno but either I’m simply incompetent when it comes to using these leaflets or they just aren’t as practical as they need to be.

Whatever the case, we got a bit lost, scrambled through a forest and made it back to the car in one piece. Eventually. 

River beaches in the Serra da Estrela

Loriga river beach.

This idyllic spot was voted one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal and I was keen to see what all the fuss was about. The icy water was a shock to the system but the setting was perfect. Read more about about Loriga and it’s lovely river beach .

Not sure what river beaches in Portugal are all about? Read this article .

Lapa dos Dinheiros river beach

I haven’t been there when it’s operational between July and August but it’s an inviting spot. The water won’t be deep enough to swim in until they put the boards in to dam the river and create a pool but its crystal clear and surrounded by granite boulders and trees.

Unhais da Serra

Unhais da Serra is a picturesque village to the south of the Serra da Estrela mountains with a river running through it. Just outside the village, there is a recreational area and again, although it wasn’t the season for river beaches when I visited, it’s clear that this is used as one in the summer and it is a gorgeous spot.

If you want to stay overnight, there are several options including a 4-star hotel with spa, indoor and outdoor pools and a hydrotherapy circuit . For a more traditional country house type accommodation with pool, try Quinta da Vargem .

Lagoa do Vale do Rossim

You can swim in the lake at Vale do Rossim and there’s a café/restaurant as well as an Eco Resort on site if you want to stay overnight . In the summer months, you can also kayak or go out on the lake on pedaloes.

Where to stay in the Serra da Estrela

As well as the places I’ve mentioned for individual villages, there are several other options, including these:

I’ve stayed at Casas das Penhas Douradas near Manteigas which I would happily recommend. It’s run by the same people responsible for reviving Burel, the traditional woollen material that’s recently become fashionable. You’ll see plenty of examples of Burel in its many colours and applications in the stylish design hotel that fits in well with its surroundings. It also has a heated indoor pool and a lovely spa. You can hire bikes and they provide free kayaks for use at the nearby lake plus information about local walks.

If you’re less fussy about sympathetic architecture, the yellow and black Hotel Serra da Estrela in Penhas da Saude may look quite garish but it’s a reasonably comfortable base and good value for money. 

For cosy stone cottages that are pet and family-friendly and clustered around a natural swimming pool, Chão do Rio near Seia is an excellent option.

If you like farm stays with style and charm, Madre de Água Hote Rural de Charme near Gouveia is ideal. They produce wine, cheese and olive oil and have plenty of animals – you can even participate in farming activities if you wish. There’s also a pool and it’s pet-friendly.

If you want to stay in Covilhã, where there’s a train station, Puralã – Wool Valley Hotel & SPA is a good option with a pool.

Getting to Serra da Estrela

Public transport is extremely limited and may be non-existent at the weekend so you’re much better off exploring with a car, if possible, or using a tour operator to get you there.

There are trains to Covilhã but you’d need a car or taxi from there to get into the mountains.

Here are my Tips For Hiring A Car In Portugal .

14 Comments

We had to visit and hike in the Manteigas district until we read about its devastating fire last August that burnt something like 20% of Serra da Estrela natural park. It was so difficult to get info about conditions in Manteigas after the fire and the rainstorms later that we changed our itinerary and bypassed Manteigas. Am curious how Manteigas and Serra da Estrela are faring since the fire.

Hi Susan, I haven’t been to that part of the Serra da Estrela since the fires. Ove the spring, the affected areas will have greened up as far as grass, bushes and flowers, and the trees that survived, but, burnt trees will still be a grim reminder of what happened. I will report back after I next visit…

I’d like to visit Cabeca do Velho and other rock formations. I have short time to do this, and exact place is important me. How far are they from Manteigas route N232

It’s a 30-minute drive according to Google Maps – https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Manteigas/Cabe%C3%A7a+do+Velho,+N232/@40.4173419,-7.5950596,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0xd3cd8cd8f81599b:0x9e3d6cfab7ed396a!2m2!1d-7.5383393!2d40.4022206!1m5!1m1!1s0xd3cd9da83b0bed5:0xecc289759318b9e5!2m2!1d-7.6028405!2d40.435699!3e0

Hi Julie. thank you for the information. we are planing a trip to Serra da Estrela in the end of august. Have you been there in the summer?i am a bit concerned because of the heat. thank you Hagit

Hi Hagit, yes. I went in August and because of the altitude, it was pleasant, rather than sweltering. Still hot but bearable unless you plan on doing strenuous trekking.

Lovely post Julie and great photos. We used to live about 80km from Serra da Estrela and would go there usually once or twice in winter to take the kids to see the snow.

Thanks, Sami. I am curious as to how it all looks in the winter but I hate driving in snow so I’m not sure how soon I’ll get around to it 🙂

Really enjoyable post. Pleased (in a perverse kind of way!) that we weren’t the only ones who had difficulty with those maps,Julie.We got lost so many times last year and ditched them (almost). We fortunately had a map reader among us who got us back on track.Our brief account of that trip through central and north east Portugal is here: http://www.lisbon-coast-apartment.com/two-weeks-in-centralnorth-east-portugal-starting-in-lisbon/#more-1551

Hi Brid, Likewise, I’m ‘glad’ it’s not just me! Your trip sounds great, by the way. You managed to pack in quite a lot in two weeks!

A beautifully descriptive piece, Julie, accompanied by wonderful photos! Most enjoyable!

Thank you, Vivienne! Glad you enjoyed it. Have you been for a drive in the Serra yet? Even if you’re not up to walking far, there are plenty of viewpoints along the road and the scenery is fabulous.

Hi Julie, you should have had a look at this website before you went walking, lots of trails with maps, photos and descriptions, all ready to print out…

http://www.manteigastrilhosverdes.com/en/?the_glacier&sc=trilho&id=6

Hi Peter, they are the very ones I had such problems with. The pack looks fabulous and the map and leaflet really seemed promising but in practice, they fell short. I couldn’t identify the start of the walks or find signs to indicate where to go when necessary. Perhaps if you’re using them in conjunction with good GPS gadget, it might work but I found the GPS signal on my phone disappeared just when I was trying to work out where we had ended up to and establish how to get back to the car without simply retracing our steps. We tried two of the 10 walks in the pack.

I got on much better with a leaflet I picked up in Loriga that described the walk in words, telling me when to turn left and right and what to look at at various points along the trail. Even though it would have been nice to have a route map, the descriptions helped me to know I was on the right track and provided interesting facts at the right times.

Over to you. Please share your thoughts in a comment. Cancel reply

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Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela

Portugal’s oldest and largest protected area, the Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela encompasses 888 sq km of the country’s highest mountains. At its centre, rising above a wild, boulder-strewn planalto (high plateau), is Torre (1993m), continental Portugal’s highest peak. Below, steep mountain roads inch past icy lakes and vast granite outcrops as they corkscrew down thickly wooded valleys. The Serra’s rushing rivers – including the Mondego and Zêzere, which have their sources here – historically provided hydropower to spin and weave the local wool into cloth. Nowadays traditional shepherding is giving way to a service economy catering to weekending tourists.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Burel Factory

The burel factory originally opened in 1960 and employed 1000 people at its height (burel is a wool fabric similar to felt). After a decline in the…

Museu de Lanifícios

Covilhã used to be the centre of one of Europe’s biggest wool-producing regions, but stray outside the centre and you’ll see the town’s ghostly mills…

Igreja de Santa Maria

In the heart of Covilhã's gritty historic centre, the 16th-century Igreja de Santa Maria is a startling sight. Its facade is entirely clad in blue and…

Poço do Inferno

This waterfall, which descends the steep gorge of Ribeira de Lenadres, is a magnificent spectacle, particularly in spring. To get there from Manteigas,…

Museu Municipal de Arte Moderna Abel Manta

This fascinating modern-art museum pays homage to Abel Manta, a (controversial) Portuguese modernist painter, who was born in Gouveia in 1888. Around 23…

Centro de Interpretacão da Serra da Estrela

In a park to the west of the town centre, this centre provides an excellent introduction to the Serra da Estrela region. A nine-minute film in English or…

Museu do Brinquedo

This museum, housed in a lovely converted mansion, traces the history of Portuguese toys, from the Victorian to the contemporary, providing an interesting…

Museu do Pão

This popular museum, set in a huge complex with mill wheels, a restaurant and rustic buildings, celebrates the history of traditional bread making. The…

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The peaks of the Serra da Estrela are the highest mountains in Portugal, rising dramatically to the southwest of Guarda. The range is basically a high alpine plateau cut by valleys, from within which emanate two of the country’s greatest rivers, the Mondego and Zêzere – the only rivers to begin and end in Portugal rather than crossing the border from Spain. The mountains – snowcapped into late spring – soon impose themselves upon any approach, while the lower flanks on either side of the range reveal a patchwork of small villages that retain much charm. The odd Portuguese visitor comes to the serra to ski in winter; many more clog the narrow roads in summer looking for picnic space. A network of hiking trails covers the peaks and valleys, though relatively few people take to the paths to explore the region.

Hiking in the Parque Natural

Mountain life.

Around 1000 square kilometres of the mountain range is protected as the Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela, which stretches for around 55km from north to south and around 25km east to west at its widest point. From the west, access is from the N17, through the small service towns of Seia or Gouveia and then on over the high mountain roads, deep into the park; the smaller western-flank villages of Linhares, Folgosinho and Loriga offer a prettier introduction to the mountain landscape. The valley town and spa of Manteigas, pretty much in the centre of the park, is the single best base for hiking and touring, while the tiny ski industry – such as it is – centres on the road between 1993m Torre, the country’s highest peak, and Covilhã, south of Manteigas. Covilhã lies just outside the park proper, and is the only town of any size in the region.

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If there’s one town in the Serra da Estrela with a true mountain air it’s MANTEIGAS, 700m up, whose whitewashed houses run along the contour above the Rio Zêzere. The approach from any direction is dramatic: from Sabugueiro and the west the road winds down in convoluted switchbacks; from Belmonte and the east the river scenery is at its most bucolic; while from the south there is the breathtaking descent down the glacial valley of the Rio Zêzere. The latter route brings you into town past the therapeutic spa of Caldas de Manteigas and to the fertile valley bottom of the Zêzere, with Manteigas itself spreading across the steep slope opposite.

There’s no public transport further into the park from town, but with a car you can use Manteigas as a base to visit Torre, the glacial valley and ski fields, and the nearby villages. The town is on two of the official walking trails, but local routes are on the tough side since – south and west at least – you have to climb steep and far to get anywhere. There’s one easy circular walk to the Poço do Inferno, though most other routes are point-to-point, requiring a taxi ride out or back, which can be easily arranged.

A circular walk from Manteigas to the Poço de Inferno

The best circular walk from Manteigas is to the Poço de Inferno waterfall and back, which takes around four hours. Most of the paint-mark trail signs are missing or faded, but it’s a straightforward route with some gorgeous views. The walk starts in the Zêzere valley bottom, from the small bridge and picnic area reached down the steep road behind the turismo in Manteigas.

Cross the bridge, turn left (signposted “Leandres”) and walk for 500m along the road, past the recycling plant, before turning right onto a clear forestry track. Keep straight on, ever upwards through the woods – the first yellow paint sign is on a tree on the right-hand side (6min) and there isn’t another until you reach a ruined white house in a clearing (45min) marked with the words “Matas Nacionais”.

Five minutes' walk after the house is the only turn off the main path – to the left (with paint marks before and after the turn). In another fifteen minutes the path ends at a bend in a tarmac road. Walk uphill (there’s a yellow paint mark almost immediately) and it’s twenty minutes further up the road to the Poço do Inferno, “Hell’s Well”, where the Leandres River pours down the narrow gorge into clear pools overlooked by viewing platforms.

To return, follow the minor road around past the falls, heading back towards Manteigas. This road actually runs steadily down to Caldas de Manteigas, though this would be a long (8km) and unnecessary return to Manteigas itself. Instead, after an hour, at a large water tank by the right-hand side of the road (there’s also a white house, just before a small bridge), turn right down an ancient track – walled in parts – which drops in zigzags through the trees. Ultimately, there are several divergent paths, but as long as you keep going downhill you’ll end up in the group of houses by the Albergaria Berne (another 30min) – from where it’s a steep fifteen-minute climb into Manteigas proper.

Just outside the eastern park boundary, and 44km south of Guarda, the prosperous town of COVILHÃ lies immediately below the highest peaks. It’s busiest on winter weekends, when it’s used as a base for trips to the ski slopes, but it has a life independent of the mountains, which makes it an agreeable place to visit at any time. Virtually every thoroughfare looks out across the plain below or up to the mountain crags – the café in the pretty town gardens has the best view, serenaded by practice sessions in the music conservatory opposite.

A market town since the Middle Ages, Covilhã developed a textile industry in the seventeenth century using wool from the local sheep, which also provide the milk for the renowned queijo da serra (mountain cheese). Later, the woollen industry harnessed water-power from the mountain streams; factories today, down on the plain below town, are powered by hydroelectricity. You can view the enormous vats used in the traditional wool-dyeing processes in the Museo de Lanifícios, located in the former Real Fábrica de Panos (Royal Textile Factory), a short walk downhill from the centre.

In theory, various hiking trails cut across the Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela, though it’s much harder to walk in the serras than it should be. The park information offices tend not to have English-speaking staff, and it’s rare for the personnel to have any first-hand experience of the trails – often, you’ll simply be pointed to dated or unreliable hiking guides and maps. Moreover, the waymarking (red-and-yellow paintmarks) in the park is unreliable: maintenance doesn’t appear to be a priority and signposting at village trailheads is woeful or non-existent. Well-prepared walkers will need to be self-sufficient in order to complete the longer trails. The best time to walk is from May to October. For the day-hiker, who just wants a taste of the mountains, try the easy circular route from Manteigas to the Poço do Inferno waterfall. Alternatively, you could tackle a short stretch of the lower-level T2 – Linhares to Gouveia, via Folgoshinho, is a good full day’s walk, with facilities in each place – though you’ll need to take a taxi back to your starting point.

In the last decades of the twentieth century, and to a lesser extent more recently, life in the mountains changed almost beyond recognition. Farmers have moved from stone mountain houses to more modern dwellings on the valley floor while many of the former intensively cultivated Zêzere valley terraces have been abandoned in favour of spreading pine plantations. Meanwhile local village production is often now directed towards tourists – delights such as the local queijo da serra, an unctuous mountain cheese, as well as rye bread, fruit preserves, honey from the fertile valleys and blankets made from the wool of grazing upland sheep are all widely available.

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Serra da Estrela: 2 and 3-day itinerary

• 12 of January, 2021

Are you thinking about traveling to Serra da Estrela but don’t know exactly what to visit? In this post, we propose you an itinerary of two or three days through the highest mountain in Portugal.

Until we planned our travel to Serra da Estrela, we knew little about the region and the first thing that came to our minds was the Tower. However, after some research, we realized that this region is rich and, in this trip, we were going to discover amazing places. Historical villages, endless valeys, woods, imposing mountains, breathtaking views, lakes and lagoons, waterfalls, river beaches, trails and good food… all this Serra da Estrela has to offer.

When to visit

Serra da Estrela can and should be visited in any season of the year. We decided to visit it during the winter and felt in love with the mountain covered in white. Associated with the snow is the practice of winter sports that, in Portugal, you can only practice in Serra da Estrela.

Spring and autumn are seasons with milder temperatures that invite you to take long walks through the colourful mountains.

During summer, the temperatures are very high in Serra da Estrela, but along the mountain there are many waterfalls, lakes, lagoons and river beaches where you can refresh yourself. Maybe even make a picnic in a refreshing shade!

Where to stay

The choice of the accomodation depends a little on what you want to visit. If you choose the 3-day itinerary, we advise you to stay in different places and you will save time when travelling. In our itinerary, we stayed at the Solneve Hotel in Covilhã and at Casa Lagar da Alagoa,in the surroundings of Manteigas.

But there are other places along the mountain where you can stay, such as Gouveia, Sabugueiro, Penhas da Saúde and Seia.

3-day itinerary

Our 3-day itinerary starts in Linhares da Beira (Celorico da Beira) and ends in Vale do Rossim (Gouveia). Since we travelled during the winter, we considered the fact that it gets dark early and the days are short. On the first day, we ended up traveling through the mountains at night. We had a bad experience because it was very foggy and the visibility was very low, so we don’t advise you to drive through the mountains at night.

If you choose to do this itinerary in the summer you can add some places (which we suggest in this post) or make spontaneous stops along the way. It’s important to note that the itinerary can only be done by car and that we consider about 250km on the first and last day from and to our hometown.

1st day: Linhares da Beira – Seia – Loriga – Covilhã

Linhares da Beira is a medieval village dating back to the 12th century, which is part of the list of Historical Villages of Portugal. The castle is the main visiting card, but do not miss the opportunity to walk through the streets and alleys of this museum village.

A few kilometers from Linhares da Beira, you will find the village of Folgosinho. In case you have extra time we advise you to visit it. Folgosinho has a castle and truly charming streets full of tiles with popular sayings. The village is full of legends, being the most heard that it was in Folgosinho that Viriato was born.

After the visit to Linhares da Beira, the next stop is the city of Seia. In Seia, you can stroll through the historical centre and visit several shops with local products, namely, the so famous cheeses and hams from Serra da Estrela. Once you are in Seia, the Bread Museum is a must visit and a good option for lunch.

The entrance to the museum costs 5,00 euros for adults and 3,00 euros for children. The visit to the museum is a real trip to the world of bread and includes a visit to several rooms, including a room dedicated to children. Besides the exhibition rooms, the museum includes a restaurant, a bar and a grocery store.

On the way to Covilhã, it is mandatory to stop in Loriga. The whole village is beautiful and welcoming, being even called “Portuguese Switzerland” for being located between mountains. The ex-libris of Loriga is the fluvial beach which is a real charm.

We went through the mountain to Covilhã to warm up and enjoy a warm meal. As the temperatures were quite low, we decided to have dinner in the hotel restaurant.

On the way from Loriga to Covilhã, there are two more villages with river beaches that deserve your visit, Paul and Unhais da Serra. So, you already know, if you have extra time or even if you do this tour in the summer, make a stop in these villages. On arrival in Covilhã you can also visit the city and particularly, go up to the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.

2nd day: Covilhã – Penhas da Saúde – Lago do Viriato – Vale Glaciar do Zêzere – Manteigas – Poço do Inferno – Manteigas

The village of Penhas da Saúde is the first stop on the 2nd day. This village is located a few kilometres from Covilhã, at an altitude of 1500m. On snowy days, it is all white and has several spaces to have fun in the snow, as well as to take some photos.

A few meters away you will find the Viriato Lake which also deserves a stop to enjoy its beauty.

After the visit to the Viriato Lake, you continue towards Manteigas. The entire route is worthy of contemplation. It is almost unthinkable to make the trip without stopping to see the landscape better and, along the way, you have small places where you can stop. This journey will be made side by side with the Zêzere Glacier Valley. The valley is beautiful with ups and downs, small streams and a breathtaking landscape!

When you arrive at Manteigas, you can enjoy having lunch. However, we advise you to make a table reservation because, depending on the time of year, the restaurants may be full. We ended up having lunch in the surroundings of Manteigas, in the town of Vale de Amoreira, at Café Ideal. The restaurant resembles a tasco and has more common and more traditional dishes such as chanfana or little fishies from the river.

After lunch, we headed to one of the most beautiful waterfalls of Serra da Estrela, the waterfall of Poço do Inferno with a 10m water fall. We advise you to stop the car in the park before the waterfall, the road continues but there is no exit and you will have to go back. When you get to the waterfall walk along the road, because a few meters away you will have another incredible view over the mountain.

It’s time to return to Manteigas and take a walk around the historical centre of the city and maybe take advantage of the shops to buy some more local products. For dinner we recommend the Berne Restaurant. We chose the prawn rice and it was delicious.

If you have extra time this day, you can go to Penhas Douradas, a resort located just a few kilometres from Manteigas.

3rd day: Manteigas – Covão d’ Ametade – Torre – Sabugueiro – Vale do Rossim

The 3rd day starts in a beautiful forest, Covão d’Ametade. The ideal is to go early because the place has little parking and is very sought after. You don’t need to be early, we arrive around 10h30/11h00 and we were able to park calmly. The place is very beautiful, the photos we share below speak for themselves. It has a river, it has several ovens, snowy clearings… it was one of the places we liked the most!

We continued climbing the mountain and went to visit the Tower. We must confess that we didn’t love the Tower, it was too foggy, too windy and too cold. We couldn’t enjoy anything! However, we advise you to climb the Tower, after all it is the highest point in continental Portugal and, if you are lucky enough to be one day with blue sky the views are incredible.

On the way down from the Tower to Sabugueiro, you will find a lake on the left side. This lake enchanted us, it was surrounded by snow and it was another place with a very beautiful landscape.

Sabugueiro was the place chosen for lunch, at O Martins restaurant. Once again we advise you to make a reservation because the restaurants were crowded. At the end of lunch, we took a walk around the village and then left towards the highest river beach in Portugal, Vale do Rossim.

On the way to the Vale do Rossim, we find a magical place with huge trees covered with snow.

When we arrived at Vale do Rossim, we were once again amazed by the landscape of the place. Here you can also practice some snow sports in an improvised way.

And so our itinerary has come to an end. However, on the way down the mountain we were still offered countless landscapes that are true postcards.

2-day itinerary

In case you choose to make a 2-day trip, we suggest you the itinerary below. You can find the description of these places above.

1st day: Penhas da Saúde – Lago do Viriato – Vale Glaciar do Zêzere – Poço do Inferno – Manteigas

2nd day: Manteigas – Covão d’ Ametade – Torre – Sabugueiro – Vale do Rossim

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THE 5 BEST Day Trips from Serra da Estrela

Day trips from serra da estrela.

• Serra da Estrela to Seia
• Serra da Estrela to Loriga
• Serra da Estrela to Nelas
• Serra da Estrela to Belmonte
• Serra da Estrela to Porto
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Seia / Manteigas / Serra da Estrela private tour

2. Private day tour Serra da Estrela cheese factory bread museum

3. Serra da Estrela - Full day Private Tour from Lisbon

4. Serra da Estrela Private Tour from Lisbon

5. Serra da Estrela - Full Day Tour

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DOURO TOURS - in Pinhão 1 day all inclusive 135€, Douro Valley

Douro Valley Tour from Peso da Regua

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Private Tour 3 Villages 1 day Belmonte Sortelha and Sabugal.

Best of Douro Valley Wine Full Day Private Tour

2 Days Douro Valley Tour - Douro Valley Wine Tour - Private Tour - All Included

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Ultimate Serra Da Estrela Natural Park Guide 2024: 9x Best Things To Do

• Updated on: April 8, 2022

This article may contain affiliate.  For more information, please see our disclaimer  here.

Table of Contents

One of the best places to explore in Europe is Serra da Estrela Natural Park in western Portugal. However, visiting here can be daunting as a first-time visitor. Don’t worry; this post covers all of the best things to do in Serra da Estrela!

Luckily, I’ve been to Serra da Estrela Natural Park before and now know exactly what’s worth doing there and what’s not. I even discovered that if you don’t have your own method of transportation, you can take a Serra da Estrela day trip from Lisbon for an affordable price.

Taking the time to plan your itinerary when visiting this national park in Portugal is the key to a successful visit! By the end of this post, you’ll know all of the activities that you can’t miss during your visit to Serra da Estrela Natural Park.

Where is Serra da Estrela?

Serra Da Estrela how to get there?

By car the drive will take you around 2 hours, see the map above for the best route.

In 4 hours the Combois Portugal train will take you to Nelas, don’t fall asleep because you will need to change in Coimbra. From Nelas you need to take a taxi drive from around 50 minutes to Serra da Estrela which will cost you between € 60 – € 80.

Use Rome2Rio to check the best routes by bus to get from Porto to Serra da Estrela, which will take you 3 hours and will cost between € 8.00 and € 16.00.

How high is Serra da Estrela?

Serra da Estrella is with 1.993 meters the highest point of mainland Portugal. To give you an overview about the other summits check out the table below:

List of Mountains in Portugal

Is serra da estrela worth visiting.

I can be really short to answer this question: YES, it’s absolutely worth is all year around. The national park offers great opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, climbing and so much more.

Best time to visit Serra da Estrela

I can’t tell you the best time, because this really depends what your reason is to visit Serra da Estrela. The periode between June and August is the busiest and you really need to think about book tours and accommodations in advance. For more information about the temperatures and rainfall, check the table below.

Weather in Serra da Estrela

As the national park is located in the highest area of Portugal the weather can change in just a couple of minutes, so always be prepared for bad weather conditions. During the winter months the temperature can be below zero as it snows and the roads can be icy, so be careful. While the winter is perfect for winter sports, during the summer it can be really hot, during hiking and other outdoor activities you need to stay hydrated. 

Must Read: 25 Incredible Things to Do in Lisbon for Outdoor Lovers

Video: Serra da Estrela Natural Park Inspiration

1. Go to the top of the Serra da Estrela mountain range

Arguably, one of the best things to do in Serra da Estrela Natural Park is going to the top of the mountain range. As the highest mountain range in Portugal, the view from the top is one you won’t want to miss. 

The best way to get to the top of Serra da Estrela without hiking is to go to Torre, which you can get to by driving. This part of the mountain peak offers incredible and breathtaking views of the surrounding area. 

At Torre, there are also some shops and even a ski resort. When visiting, be sure to take the time and walk around this area so that you get to fully experience what it’s like here so that you don’t regret it. This mountain peak is luckily beautiful year-round, so no matter what time you visit, you’ll surely enjoy the view.

2. Serra da estrela natural park hiking

If you’re wondering what to do in Serra da Estrela Natural Park and you love outdoor adventure activities, consider going on a hike! This mountain range has quite a few excellent hiking trails that range in difficulty. Below, learn about some that I most recommend!

Fraga das Penhas and Albufeira de Vale do Rossim

First is a 7.3-mile trail with just over 1,000 feet of elevation gain on the way up. This loop trail is moderate, so if you’ve been hiking before, you will most likely be able to do this hike easily.

Bear in mind that the majority of this trail is right in the sunlight, and there’s not a shady spot along it, so you’ll want to make sure you pack your sunscreen. It’s best to do this hike when it’s not incredibly hot so that you don’t overheat along the way.

Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information about this trail.

PR 2 MTG Rota do Javali

Another great moderate trail with over 2,000 feet in elevation gain in this Portuguese Natural Park is PR 2 MTG Rota do Javali. It’s also 7 miles, and its main feature is a waterfall that has truly unparalleled views. 

This trail essentially circles all the way around a mountain instead of going to a summit, but it makes for exciting and beautiful scenery. A lot of the trail is quite rocky, so it might be a bit trickier to hike than other trails rated as moderate. 

Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

Poco do Inferno

Last but not least is Poco do Inferno, an easy hike of just under two miles. It’s a loop trail with around 480 feet in elevation gain. Because this trail is easy, you’ll be able to enjoy the incredible views that come from hiking Serra da Estrela Natural Park in Portugal, no matter your hiking experience. 

Ensure you wear sturdy shoes because the beginning is very rocky, and it soon turns into a forest.

Check out: The Perfect 10 Day Road Trip Itinerary From Lisbon to Porto

3. Serra da estrela mountain bike

One of the top things to do in Portugal ‘s Serra da Estrela National Park is to go mountain biking! If you didn’t travel with a bike (as most people wouldn’t), don’t worry. You can rent one nearby so you can participate in fun activities like this. Here are a few of the best trails in Serra da Estrela for mountain biking.

Unhais da Serra a Torre

This 12.5-mile trail is a point-to-point and has just shy of 5,000 feet of elevation gain. It’s a challenging trail that is best used by those who have adequate mountain biking experience, but the views are unmatched!

Part of the trail is paved, but some of it is also rocky. Doing a path like this could take quite a few hours, so make sure you pack a backpack for yourself and plan wisely.

GR22 7 Valezim a Piodao

For a more accessible trail, consider going on this one in Serra da Estrela Natural Park. It’s just under 20 miles, but the elevation gain is closer to 4,000 feet, and it’s a moderate point-to-point trail. This mountain biking trail will bring you near tons of beautiful quaint villages in the area!

Must read: Cycling in Portugal Guide: 3 Incredible Routes for Bike Touring

4. Serra da estrela skiing

Are you wondering what to do in this National Park in Portugal during the winter? You’re in luck because this mountain range is home to tons of popular winter sports. Instead of heading to Switzerland or Austria this winter, go to Serra da Estrela!

Snowboarding and skiing in Portugal

One of the classic winter activities here is snowboarding or skiing in Serra da Estrela. There’s a popular ski resort here called Vodafone Ski Resort that’s located directly in the mountain range. While the slopes here aren’t great for really advanced snowboards and skiers, this is the perfect place to go if you’re a beginner or intermediate.

Another great thing to do in this Portuguese National Park is sledging! This is great fun for all ages, and you should be able to rent or purchase a sledge in one of the villages or at the ski resort. The best place to go sledging is at the ski resort, but if you can find another area that looks safe for sledging, by all means, go for it!

Snow activities

If you’re wondering what to do here, but you’d rather do it on a tour, consider participating in snow activities. This tour , in particular, will give you access to a must-visit cheese factory and to the slopes. 

5. Serra da estrela hole in lake – Covão dos Conchos 

Exploring Covão dos Conchos is one of the top things to do in Serra da Estrela National Park! This is a big park in the mountains that is most popular for its glorious lakes, but it also has some fantastic hiking trails. 

We’ve been here before, but it was dry at the time that we visited. Keep in mind that what you see there won’t always be like what you see in pictures! 

What is Lagoa da Serra da Estrela?

Back in 1955 engineers were building a dam in the highest mountain range in Portugal ‘Serra da Estrela’ and needed water in a lower lake ‘Lagao Comprida’ and created a 15 meter hole to transport the water. So there is no waterfall or secret world underneath, but it’s really functional. 

The best trail that we can recommend here is Lagoa Camprida e Cavao dos Conchos . Hiking this trail is the perfect way to get some of the best views of the area, and you’ll also get some great exercise along the way.

It’s a 5.5-mile trail round trip with an elevation gain of just under 800 feet. If you drift off the trail slightly, you may also be able to do a route all the way around the lake instead of this out and back trail.

6. Villages

When visiting Serra da Estrela Natural Park, you absolutely must take the time to check out a few of the villages. Here are some that we most recommend. 

First up is Piódão, a 14th-century historical village that is situated right on the mountain. It looks like a town straight out of a fairytale, and all the houses in this village are almost identical. The cobblestone walkways here feel genuinely magical. Because this town is so tiny, you should also visit local restaurants and mingle with residents!

Guarda is another must-visit village in Serra da Estrela. It’s a lot bigger and is in the northern part of the mountain range. The highlight here is Sabugal Castle, a historic castle that the town was built around. You’ll also want to be sure to visit the Gothic Se da Guarda Church, which is truly beautiful. 

Check out: Portugal Hiking Guide + 9 Greatest Hiking Trails

7. Find the Serra da Estrela dogs 

Believe it or not, but one of the oldest dog breeds in this area of the world is the Serra da Estrela dogs! These mountain dogs are historically used guarding and herding, and they grow to be quite large. While they’re pretty rare outside of Portugal, they’re popular within the country.

You’ll find that many people in the area own these dogs, but you can also find them at local dog kennels. Consider meeting up with a local or visiting a kennel to meet these dogs and give them some love.

8. Learn about Portugal’s food

Take the time to visit the Bread and Cheese Museum (Museu do Pão) to learn all about its religious importance to this area of Portugal near the Serra da Estrela National Park. The museum is filled with exhibits that will introduce you to the milling process from start to finish. 

This museum is very kid-friendly, but of course, adults will enjoy it too. That’s what makes this such a must-do attraction when visiting here!

Be sure to book your museum tour ahead of time if you know this is an activity you want to partake in!

9. Go on a 4×4 Jeep adventure in Serra da Estrela National Park

Last but not least, one of the most fun things to do in Serra da Estrela National Park in Portugal is hopping on a 4×4 Jeep adventure ! This adventure lasts approximately 6 hours, so the price is well worth it.

The tour guide is available in either Portuguese or English. Along the adventure, you’ll learn more about the Serra da Estrela mountain range, taste some of the best delicacies (smoked ham and cheese!), and more, all while exploring the area in a 4×4 Jeep. 

Where can I stay near Serra da Estrela Natural Park?

There are plenty of options for accommodation in the national park, for all kind of budgets.

Serra Da Estrela Natural Park Hotels

• Budget: Sport Hotel Gym + Spa
• Budget: Quinta de Leandres
• Midrange: Vila Galé Serra da Estrela

Tip to save money: Book your stays with  hotels.com  and get a free night for every 10 nights you stay.

Serra Da Estrela Natural Park Camping

If you prefer to spend your night on a campground, there are nice campings in the national park. For more information see the camping map below:

Best Tours Serra da Estrela

Faq serra da estrela national park, what is the highest point in portugal.

The Estrela Mountains is the highest point of mainland Portugal. The highest point of Portugal is Pico 2.351 meters located on Azores.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Serra da Estrela?

If you want to visit the National Park by yourself you don’t have to book, tours need to be booked in advance.

Pin for later

Thanks for checking out these things to do in Portugal’s Serra da Estrela National Park. Don’t forget to discover more of Portugal! Check out our Portugal page to read all our guides on Portugal.

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Level 3: Walking levels: Moderate day walks are interspersed with more strenuous excursions, 4-6 hours per day (excluding breaks) on hilly to mountainous areas using well kept, sometimes stony paths. Cycling levels: Biking in hilly areas for the fit and frequent cyclist. The daily distances vary between 35 and 65 km. but you will encounter some steep or extended climbs up to 500m. You will need a bicycle with at least 21 gears

Comfort level 3:

Good hotels, inns, B&B, agriturismo (farmstead) with ensuite bathroom, often well located and serving good meals.

Serra da Estrela walking trip

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• Serra da Estrela: Portugal’s highest mountain range
• Surprising rock formations, lush valleys, waterfalls and authentic alpine villages. 
• A Natural Park with the highest summits in Portugal 
• An excellent network of way-marked walking paths 
• Accommodation situated in or near Medieval villages
• 1 night at a luxurious “quinta” or country estate

Spectacular walking trip through the Serra da Estrela , Portugal’s highest mountain range, with impressive granite landscapes. Surprising rock formations and open plateaus combine with lush valleys, waterfalls and authentic alpine villages. Olive trees and stout chestnuts are completely at home in the valleys, as are larch trees and firs higher up. Most of Portugal’s highest summits are found here, inside the Natural Park limits, including the very top, La Torre at 2000m, a veritable tower of granite. Here, an excellent network of way-marked walking paths allows you to explore this fascinating terrain. Your accommodations are situated in or near Medieval villages, adorned with traditional Portuguese decorative tiles. The trip includes 2 nights at a luxurious “quinta” or country estate.

• STANDARD HOTELS
• Info PRACTICAL INFO

Start:  Celorico da Beira     Finish: São Romão

From Porto Airport, you take the metro to the city centre. Then you get a bus from Porto to the historic village of Celorico da Beira . The journey takes about 4 hours. Upon arrival, there is still time to explore this historical town, its castle and Medieval walls. 

Challenge : Travel to Serra da Estrela

Villages along the way : Celorico da Beira

Today's route begins in Celorico da Beira , traversing open areas with magnificent views to reach the top of the Serra do Ralo . With the hum of windmills from above, you will enjoy sweeping panoramic views before starting the descent to Linhares . On the way down, you will walk through pine forests, holm oak woods and wide pastures. Once in the medieval village of Linhares we recommend visiting its castle, the Roman Forum and royal houses built by the aristocracy, scattered throughout the town. 

Challenge: 16 km / 10 mi, 5.5 - 6 hrs, 620 m ascent, 350 m descent

Villages along the way : Celorico da Beira, Linhares, Folgosinho

After breakfast you have a taxi transfer to the beginning of today's route, in Folgosinho or the chapel at Nossa Senhora de Assedasse (luggage continues to your next accommodation in Manteigas). This walk is more demanding than the previous one, and the sections in ascent and descent are rewarded with spectacular views. You traverse a remote area, with no villages along the way, and will need to enough carry water and provisions for the whole day. The first section is a steep ascent from Folgosinho, along an old Roman Road that ascends through a valley. When you reach the highest point, Portella do Folgosinho , you’ll have views to Pico de La Torre . Continuing through nearly deserted valleys and richly diverse forests, the route ends with a steep descent to Manteigas , a lovely village situated in a lush glacier valley beneath high peaks and full of small shops and cafes.

Challenge: 21 km / 13 mi, 6.5 - 7 h, 700 m ascent, 550 m descent

Villages along the way : Folgosinho, Manteigas

For the next two days you will explore the heart of the Serra de Estrella from your base in Manteigas . Today you can choose between a well-deserved rest day, with a visit to the local trout farm, or a trip to the impressive waterfall at ‘ Poço do Inferno ’ (the Devil’s Well), walking through Buraco Valley with its strange rock formations. A varied and changing landscape with beautiful wooded sections and magnificent views.

Challenge: 14 km / 8,5 mi, 6 - 6.5 hrs, 650 m ascent and descent

Villages along the way : Manteigas

A lovely walk awaits today, to the north of Manteigas. Starting off in ascent, you follow a historic route protected by the shade of a pine forest, to reach Pousada de São Lorenço, (elevation 1290 m) with stunning views of Manteigas Valley. Next you follow a dirt track through open terrain and vast colourful farmland. Finally, another descent - with more shade - leads back to Manteigas. 

Challenge: 14 km / 8,5 mi, 6 - 6.5 hrs, 630 m ascent and descent

Villages along the way: Manteigas

Today you choose between 2 options:

The first option traverses the beautiful glacial valley of Zézere , which leads to La Torre, and you walk through valleys, mountain meadows and forest tracks. At the end of your route, you have an included taxi transfer to your next accommodation, situated in the beautiful mountain village of Loriga .

Challenge: 18 km / 11 mi, 6 hrs, 835 m ascent, 110 m descent

The second option begins with a short transfer to La Torre recreation area. This strategic location (at 1993 m, the highest summit in Portugal) provides magnificent views. You will enter the granite massif of Serra da Estrella, a whole different world with wide glacial valleys which recall the last Ice Age. Your route begins with a gradual descent from La Torre toward the western sector of the Natural Park. Traversing high pastures, narrow lanes, abrupt peaks and crystal-clear lakes, you make your way back to the lovely village of Loriga .

Challenge:  12 km / 7,5 mi, 4.5 - 5 hrs, 50 m ascent, 1230 m descent

Villages along the way: Loriga

The last walking route on this programme leads inland through wooded areas, passing typical villages clinging to the slopes of the “Mountains of the Stars”. On your way you will pass two interesting sites: Más Tumba and Cabeça da Velha , before you reach the pleasant village of São Romão , with several chapels. Your accommodation for tonight is a renovated traditional “Quinta”, now a beautiful hotel with swimming pool, situated just outside the village.

Challenge: 19 km / 12 mi, 6.5 - 7 hrs, 775 m ascent, 550 m descent

Villages along the way: Loriga, Seia, São Romão

Your arrangement comes to an end today after breakfast.

Challenge : Departure from Portugal.

All hotels of this trip are carefully selected because of their location, atmosphere and/or unique services. Accommodations are located in or near Medieval villages. All rooms are en-suite. You can find the standard hotels of this trip. If a hotel is fully booked, then we will book a similar one for you and inform you about the alternative booked. Extra nights : You can book additional night(s) at any of the accommodations along the way.

Casa do Castelo de Celorico is a comfortable stone house located in the bucolic village of Celorico da Beira.

Located in a historical village situated in the foothills of the Serra da Estrela mountains that takes pride in its imposing, powerful castle, whose architecture is essentially military in style. The hotel has 26 welcoming and fully equipped rooms. Meeting room, swimming pool, tennis court, Wi-Fi and private parking.

www.inatellinhares.pt

With a quiet and a welcoming atmosphere this hotel is perfect to escape from routine and to rest in harmony with nature. The hotel has 17 rooms with balconies with mountain views. The rooms are comfortable and their are decorated in a basic but nice way. the restaurant has large windows and panoramic views and it offers a good quality gastronomy including many typical Portuguese specialities as well as international ones. 

www.hotelberne.com

This accommodation is 800 meters from the river beach – Loriga. Located in the middle of the Serra da Estrela park, at an altitude of 770 meters, O Vicente is a family-style accommodation with views of the Serra da Estrela and the village of Loriga.

https://www.ovicente.com/

The property of 18 ha in which this hotel is located spreads along a green valley surrounded by oak forests and with three streams running through it. The hotel is in a former farm that was restored maintainig its original personality.

www.quintadocrestelo.pt

You can start on any day of the week, subject to availability, between April and October.

The nearest airports to Serra da Estela are:  Porto airport (OPO)  and Lisbon airport (LIS)

Arrival in Celorico da Beira

From Porto Airport (OPO) , you take the Metro or Bus to O Porto city centre. There is a direct bus run by Rede Expressos. You can also take the Metro (line E to “Trinidade” stop) where you change to line D direction “D. João I”. Get off at the second stop and follow signs to the bus terminal “Rede Expressos” in Rua Alexandre Herculano.

From the bus station in Porto, take a bus to the historic village of Celorico da Beira (2.5 - 3 hours). More info at www.rede-expressos.pt

From Lisbon Airport (LIS) . Get a shuttle bus to Sete Rios Bus Station in Lisbon city (line 96). You can also take a taxi. From the bus station take a bus to Celorico da Beirawith the company Rede Expressos (4.5 - 5 hours trip).

Departure from Sao Romao

To Porto airport from Seia: Take the bus from Seia to Coimbra (direction “Lisboa”), where you change buses to connect to O Porto. From Porto bus station take a bus or taxi to the airport 

To Lisbon airport from Seia: Take a bus from Seia to Lisbon, most combinations require you to change buses in Coimbra). Around 4.5 to 5 hours trip. From Lisbon bus station there’s a shuttle service to the airport. 

GPS tracks are available on request.

• 7 nights´accommodation with breakfasts
• Luggage transfer according to program
• Private transfers according to programme on Days 2, 3, 6 & 7
• Digital detailed route notes and maps in English
• Access to the trip on our navigation app
• 24-hour telephone assistance

Not included

• Lunches and dinners
• Travel insurance
• Tourist Tax
• Transfers by public transportation 
• Transfer to first/ from last accommodation
• Personal expenses such as drinks, tips, phone calls, additional transfers, etc.
• Any items not especifically mentioned in this program
• Extra night/s at any of the accommodations of the programme
• Single Room Supplement(s)
• Solo Traveller Supplement
• Shipment of printed documents to the first accommodation

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• The ultimate road trip f…

The ultimate road trip for anyone visiting Serra da Estrela

Dec. 18, 2018, 11:22 a.m.

If you are on holidays on the highest mountain of Continental Portugal, take the opportunity to discover the surrounding wonders.

Whether for the snow or for the heights adrenaline, Serra da Estrela is a must-see place at this time of the year. Make yourself be accompanied by the white landscape and the warmth of the fireplace to savor your Christmas Dinner or New Year’s Eve, but go even further: accept the All About Portugal challenge and get ready for an irresistible road trip. There is a lot to discover near Serra da Estrela, so just get in the car and hit the roads drawn in-between the perfection of Nature. The breathtaking landscapes get together with the taste of the traditional Serra da Estrela cheese, "cinematographic" villages that seem to have stopped in time and, of course, a lot of human warmth. Join us!

Sabugueiro – 18,4 km

The trip begins in a place that is as remote as magical: the highest village in Portugal, at 1200 meters altitude. Its creation is almost poetic, since Sabugueiro has emerged from the set of shepherds' shelters. Still closely linked to pastoralism and related industries, the village has revealed a new and modern face thanks to rural tourism. With truly delightful natural corners and charming houses, it is a must for anyone who dares to drive on the Serra da Estrela roads.

Manteigas – 21,9 km

Located in the middle of the Zêzere Glacier Valley, the Manteigas’ village has a "U"-shaped physiognomy designed by Nature, thanks to the disappeared glaciers and the inescapable Covão da Ponte and Covão d'Ametade, among numerous rocks and lagoons. Besides the idyllic landscape, Manteigas is well known for its typical mountain cuisine, with cheese being one of the indispensable ingredients. Although it is a county, it is the smallest in the Guarda district.

Loriga – 22 km

A true paradise for those who seek the opposite of the city bustle, Loriga is hidden among the green landscape of the Serra, at 770 meters of altitude, like a promised oasis after months of hard work. Its natural charm and incredible location even made the village earn the nickname of "Portuguese Switzerland". The valley was inhabited by Suebis, Visigoths and Moors, and it is possible to witness their presence on a Roman road and on the medieval terrace.

Cabeça (Christmas Village) – 22,8 km

Being a shale and granite area, Cabeça village was adapted to the need of times, with agriculture and other activities adapting to the Serra morphology. The population declined in number, and in spite of the difficult accesses, it tried to keep up: Cabeça was the first village to have wireless Internet in 2007, and from 2013 it gained a new life as Christmas Village. It is a sustainable, innovative event that further enhances the Serra's natural magic.

Valezim – 22,9 km

Its name comes from "small valley" (in Portuguese), but, despite its small size, Valezim is very rich in historic terms. Its granite lands are the ideal stage for growing corn and fruit trees, and granite is also the raw material for architectural beauties. You can also find the memories of tin and wolfram mines developed during World War II. The religious works are not to be missed, especially the São João Chapel.

Alvoco da Serra – 31,4 km

This is the last village of the Seia county of this itinerary. Like the previous ones, it has its tradition inscribed in the agriculture, the dairy products and the pastoral work, being the construction normally ruled by the granite. In its golden age, in the mid-twentieth century, it had three factories in operation, employing much of the population of the surrounding villages. In addition to monuments, namely religious ones, and the barn area, there is also an outdoor swimming pool.

Sortelha – 52,4 km

It's one of the must-see Historic Villages! Set in the Sabugal municipality, the town of Sortelha is one of the best preserved memories of medieval times, embellished by its wall and castle. Get lost on the paths between houses and, if vertigo is not a problem for you, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes that surround the locality. A paradise for those who enjoy photography. Do not miss the “Cabeça da Velha” (literally “Old Lady’s Head”) detail!

Folgosinho – 56,4 km

Well-known for its gastronomic references, this village of the municipality of Gouveia deserves a visit. Once with a full stomach, you can venture through the treasures of Folgosinho, namely the portentous castle on the Mondego Valley, the Roman sidewalk of the Galhardos and the hill. Less glamor can be found in the "gallow", where death convicts were suspended, and, today, tragic stories are still told on Cerro das Forcas, at an about 200 meters distance from the hill.

Linhares da Beira – 63,9 km

If its sidewalk could speak, Linhares da Beira, in the county of Celorico da Beira, would tell epic stories of Túrdulos and Romans, and adventures of the road that previously connected Emérita to Braga. At 800 meters of altitude, the village breathes a different "habitat" of the Serra da Estrela, although maintaining its cheese tradition. The castle is the most striking element of its landscapes, but a raid into its narrow and winding roads is a true return to a past filled with History.

Almeida – 111 km

Don’t let the distance to Almeida, located near the border with Vilar Formoso, scare you! The trip is well worth it and, by the way, you can take advantage of strategic stops in other locations, such as Colmeal da Torre (Belmonte) or Arrifana (Guarda). The Almeida Fortress is, with its star format, linked with horse riding, gastronomy and natural routes, one of the most emblematic architectural works of the district.Do not miss Castelo Mendo and Castelo Bom in its vicinity.

Castelo Rodrigo – 130 km

Yet another place with Roman tradition, with a still visible testimony on the sidewalk that crosses the village. One of its trademark images is its, both military and religious, architecture, from which the walls and the castle are the ex-libris. It has one of the most unlikely landscapes in the district: an open-armed King Christ facing the village, built in 1956 at the Alto da Serra da Marofa Viewpoint. As far as local handicrafts are concerned, don't miss the lace and embroidery.

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No verdict in trial of Rohen James Hanson, accused of murdering partner Dee Annear in Bulga Forest

A jury has failed to reach a verdict in the trial of 41-year-old Rohen James Hanson, accused of murdering his partner Dee Annear during a camping trip three years ago.

Ms Annear, 34, was found dead outside a cabin in Bulga Forest on the New South Wales Mid North Coast on September 18, 2021.

A jury heard 11 days of evidence from March 20 in the Supreme Court in Coffs Harbour.

But on Monday, jurors told Justice Peter Hamill they were unable to reach a unanimous verdict.

They were instructed to return to deliberations on Tuesday to see if they could reach a majority verdict of 11 to 1.

However, following more than 22 hours of deliberations, the jury told Justice Hamill they were still unable to reach a verdict.

"There is a big enough gap that the jury is unlikely to arrive at a majority verdict," a juror told the court.

Justice Hamill formally discharged the jury and apologised to Ms Annear's family. 

"The court simply doesn't have words that can convey our sympathy," he said.

"I'm sorry today has resulted in you being left without that closure."

During the trial, the court was told Mr Hanson and Ms Annear began a relationship in 2017 and were living together in Wingham at the time of her death.

The trial heard testimony from witnesses, including family and friends, who detailed a history of alleged alcohol abuse and violence between Ms Annear and Mr Hanson.

Phone calls and CCTV footage were also played for the jury.

Forensic pathologist Allan Cala told the court Ms Annear's injuries at the time of her death included bruising and abrasions on her arms, legs and torso, a head fracture that caused a brain haemorrhage, a rib fracture, and chest bleeding.

'I didn't mean it'

During closing statements on April 5, defence barrister Stuart Bouveng told the court it was indisputable that Ms Annear died at the hands of Mr Hanson, but that his client did not intend to kill her.

He told the court Mr Hanson tackled Ms Annear and knocked her unconscious after she "hit him in the forehead" with a bottle during an argument sparked following a car accident on the evening of September 17, 2021.

Mr Bouveng said Ms Annear suffered further trauma to the head when Mr Hansen dropped her while he attempted to move her to a couch.

The jury heard that in the days after Ms Annear's death, Mr Hanson told police, "I didn't mean it. I tackled her and she hit her head. I'm sorry".

"She was the love of my life. I didn't want to leave her," Mr Hanson told police.

However, Crown Prosecutor Carl Young argued during his closing that the defendant intended to physically assault Ms Annear during an argument and "was not acting in self-defence or under extreme provocation".

Justice Hamill adjourned the matter to June 7, when a new trial date will be set.

Mr Hanson will remain in custody.

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Rory McIlroy shoots down LIV Golf rumors: 'I will play the PGA Tour for the rest of my career'

Rory McIlroy maintains he's sticking with the PGA Tour following a report that LIV Golf offered him $850 million and an ownership stake to join the league.

"I honestly don't know how these things get started. I've never been offered a number from LIV and I've never contemplated going to LIV," McIlroy told Golf Channel.

"I think I've made it clear over the past two years that I don't think it's something for me. Doesn't mean that I judge people that have went and played over there — I think one of the things that I've realized over the past two years is people can make their own decisions for whatever they think is best for themselves and who are we to judge them for that? But personally, for me, my future is here on the PGA Tour and it's never been any different."

McIlroy doubled down on his commitment to the PGA Tour, saying he will spend the rest of his career with it.

"Over the last two years there's been so many rumors of guys — I think the one thing I've realized as well ... guys need to keep an open mind. I'm sure there's been players that are still playing on the PGA Tour that have talked to the guys from LIV and had offers and whatever. .... It's never even been a conversation for us.

"It's one of those things. It's unfortunate that we have to deal with it and this is the state that our game's in. But I'm obviously here today and I'm playing this PGA Tour event next week and I will play the PGA Tour for the rest of my career."

McIlroy's agent said there was "zero truth" to the rumors and labeled them as "fake news."

The four-time major champ had been one of LIV Golf's more vocal critics since its inception, going so far as to say last year that, "If LIV Golf was the last place to play golf on Earth, I would retire." McIlroy's stance on the Saudi-funded tour appears to have softened somewhat in recent months, however.

"I wouldn't say I've lost the fight against LIV, but I've just accepted the fact that this is part of our sport now," McIlroy said in January .

He added then he was "maybe a little judgmental of the guys who went to LIV Golf at the start, and I think it was a bit of a mistake on my part because I now realize that not everyone is in my position or in Tiger Woods' position."

He echoed many of those comments while speaking Tuesday with Golf Channel. His personal commitment to the PGA Tour, though, appears to remain firm.