Travel Guide of Serra da Estrela in Portugal by Influencers and Travelers
Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain range in Continental Portugal. Together with the Serra da Lousã it is the westernmost constituent range of the Sistema Central and also one of the highest in the system.
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Pictures and Stories of Serra da Estrela from Influencers
14 pictures of Serra da Estrela from Diogo Tavares, Francisco T Santos, Goncalo Verdasca and other travelers
- Old man in a small village. ...click to read more
- Experienced by @Sara Melo Gago | ©Unsplash
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Reviews of Serra da Estrela from Travel Influencers
- Take the car up to the highest point in mainland Portugal for the views
- Check out the views and attractions along the way
- Be aware that there are thieves in the area
- Travel across Serra da Estrela for nice views
- Visit the RAMSAR protected area
Travelers' favorite tours and activities:
- Serra da Estrela - Full Day Tour - from $207
- Serra da Estrela Private Tour From Lisbon - from $223
- Serra da Estrela - Full day Private Tour from Lisbon - from $343
- Estrela Mountain and Piodão Historical Village, from Coimbra, full-day - from $128
How to visit Serra da Estrela ?
Serra da Estrela, Portugal's highest mountain range, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and delicious local cuisine make it an unforgettable experience.
To get to Serra da Estrela, you can fly into Porto or Lisbon and rent a car for the scenic drive. Alternatively, take a bus or train to a nearby city like Covilhã or Guarda, and then hire a taxi or rent a car to reach the mountain range. The journey from Lisbon takes about 4 hours, while from Porto is approximately 2.5 hours.
It is essential to book a few things in advance to make the most of your trip. If you plan on skiing or snowboarding during the winter months, reserve your equipment and ski passes early. Additionally, booking accommodation in advance is recommended, especially in high season, to secure your preferred choice.
The costs of a trip to Serra da Estrela depend on the activities and accommodation you choose. Expect to pay around €100-150 per night for a mid-range hotel, and up to €300 for a luxury stay. Ski passes range from €20-40 per day, while equipment rental varies depending on quality and duration.
Some of the best things to do in Serra da Estrela include:
1. Hiking: Explore the numerous trails, like the PR1 or the PR2, offering varying levels of difficulty and showcasing stunning views of the mountains.
2. Skiing and snowboarding: The Vodafone Ski Resort provides slopes for all skill levels during the winter months.
3. Visit historical villages: Explore the charming villages of Manteigas, Sabugueiro, and Linhares, each offering a unique glimpse into traditional Portuguese life.
4. Taste local cuisine: Don't miss out on trying Serra da Estrela cheese, a regional delicacy made from sheep milk.
For delicious meals, consider dining at the following restaurants:
1. O Albertino: This cozy establishment in Folgosinho serves traditional Portuguese dishes with a focus on regional ingredients.
2. Casa do Pão: Located in Manteigas, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including the famous Serra da Estrela cheese.
3. Restaurante O Tachinho: Situated in Sabugueiro, this charming eatery specializes in traditional Portuguese cuisine and local delicacies.
Recommended accommodations in Serra da Estrela include:
1. Casa das Penhas Douradas: A boutique hotel nestled in the mountains, offering a luxurious stay with stunning views and various outdoor activities.
2. Pousada da Serra da Estrela: A historic hotel located in a former sanatorium, featuring modern amenities and a breathtaking setting.
3. Hotel Berne: A comfortable option in Manteigas with easy access to ski slopes and hiking trails.
Off the beaten path:
For a unique and lesser-known experience, visit the Vale Glaciar do Zêzere, a glacial valley in the heart of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. This geological wonder offers breathtaking views, and its remote location provides a sense of solitude and connection with nature. Hike the well-marked trails and take in the beauty of this hidden gem, far from the more crowded tourist attractions.
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Map of Serra da Estrela
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More Travel spots to explore around Serra da Estrela
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Discover more travel spots to explore around Serra da Estrela
⛰️ Hill spots ⛰️ Hill station spots ❄️ Glacial landform spots 🏞️ Reservoir spots 🏘️ Town spots 🐾 Wildlife spots 🏞️ Loch spots ⛰️ Mountaineering spotsLearn More about Serra da Estrela
Are you looking for a new destination in Portugal? Choose Serra da Estrela The Serra da Estrela is located in Portugal, more specifically in the municipality of Manteigas in the Beira Baixa region. It is 293 km from the capital, Lisbon. It is the second highest peak in Portugal, rising to 1,993 meters, after Ponto do Pico. It is the largest protected natural park in Portugal. It extends over 6 municipalities. It is also home to the only ski area in the country, where you can go for long walks and enjoy the views. The scenery is full of diversity, with magnificent mountains, numerous rivers and a wide variety of flora and fauna. Whatever the season, the Serra da Estrela is the ideal place to get closer to nature. The CISE allows travelers to be accompanied during this exceptional walk. For accommodation there are a few hotels in the vicinity of the municipality. Summer or winter, you will have a great time in the Serra da Estrela.
Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers planning a trip to Serra da Estrela
Legend has it that there was a king who heard that every night a shepherd from the top of the mountains talked to a star. The king immediately sent for the shepherd and ordered him to give him his star, promising in return to give him many riches and many of his possessions.
In cold weather, Serra da Estrela is the only place in Portugal where we can go snow skiing, as well as sledding, snowboarding or snowmobiling. There are several tracks with support infrastructures, and we can also find synthetic snow tracks for skiing at any time of the year.
Serra da Estrela in Autumn: September, October, November
Until October, it's still a good time to go hiking, because the rains are still sparse and it's neither too hot nor too cold. In my opinion, this is a good time for those who visit the schist villages at their most "romantic".
Where to Stay near Serra da Estrela
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