Serra da Estrela - Estrela Mountains
When a Portuguese person thinks of a mountain, Serra da Estrela or Estrela Mountains is probably the first that comes to mind!
Its summit, the Torre, is 1993m above sea level. Its size is modest when compared to large mountains in the Alps or Pyrenees, for example…
But it is the highest mountain in mainland Portugal, and that’s something… It has magical corners, unique landscapes, rivers, streams and lakes, forests, valleys and plateaus and small villages that will make you fall in love.
I know what I’m talking about, because that’s what happened to us. From the first time we visited Serra da Estrela, we dreamed of living here. Over the years, the appeal became irresistible… And here we are!
Cycling through its plateaus and valleys, walking through its most inaccessible areas. This is the best way to get to know our Serra da Estrela. Away from the crowds, just you and nature. Time passes differently, you forget the problems of your daily life, you’re in communion with nature and breathing the purest air in Portugal! An authentic relaxing treatment in the open air!
In this article you’ll find experiences and things to do and visit in Serra da Estrela. You can also find out more about some of the traditions, gastronomy and other curiosities of this region.
The weather in Serra da Estrela
Winter in the Serra can be very harsh, but there are also plenty of days when the sun invites you to go for a walk. Snowfall is now less regular than in the past and mostly occurs between December and April, but can also occur at the highest points in May, October and November.
In spring and fall, the weather is quite variable. There are always plenty of pleasant days, the best of the year for getting out into nature, but also very wintry days. The best way to enjoy these colder days is to relax by the fire and enjoy a cheese with a good red wine!
The Seasons in Serra da Estrela
In winter we look forward to the snow, which (unfortunately) visits us less and less often. On nice days, that winter sun comforts body and soul and invites us to go out and enjoy Nature.
In spring, the shrubs that cover the mountain turn it into an irresistible palette of colors, as if it were a garden.
In summer, we escape the heat and enjoy the fresh air at altitude, the lagoons, the river beaches, the streams with crystal-clear waters…
Autumn is perhaps the most exuberant season, the colors that the Chestnut, Oak and Beech trees give to the hillsides are ephemeral, but a true spectacle of Nature!
The cycle goes on year after year, always the same mountain, always different. Whatever time of year you visit Serra da Estrela, you won’t regret it.
Serra da Estrela Natural Park
It’s undoubtedly a very special place, Serra da Estrela, and that’s why it is:
- Natural Park since 1976 (the largest protected area in the country), with a total area of approximately 89000ha.
- World Biogenetic Reserve since 1993 (12% of the natural park area)
- Wetland of International Importance since 2005.
- UNESCO International Geopark. The entire mountain and some surrounding areas received this classification in 2019, given the great geological interest of the region. Mainly due to the action of the glaciers that have shaped this mountain, but not only.
Not bad for a small mountain, don’t you think?
Traditions and gastronomy in Serra da Estrela
But there’s more, much more to discover…
You may not know it, but Serra da Estrela gives its name to a breed of dog, and to Portugal’s most famous cheese, considered one of the best in the world. The dog and Serra da Estrela cheese are closely associated with a tradition that dates back to prehistoric times and is still maintained today in Serra da Estrela and the surrounding regions, the traditional shepherding. If you’re lucky enough to come across a shepherd in Serra da Estrela, take the opportunity to hear some of his stories and perhaps share some wine or cheese.
Our gastronomy is based on high-quality local products and ancient recipes that you can try in their most typical form or through modern reinterpretations provided by the many quality restaurants in the region.
And wines? We have that too! And good ones! The Beira Interior DOC wine region lies to the east and the Dão DOC wine region to the west.
Hotels and other accommodations in Serra da Estrela
There is no shortage of reasons to visit Estrela Mountains. And we also have plenty of accommodation of all kinds here, hotels, rural houses, local lodgings, campsites… In town, in the village, in the countryside… For all tastes and budgets! You’ll certainly have no problem finding the right accommodation for you!
Here are a few suggestions for a nice stay in Manteigas, the best place for you to stay to visit Serra da Estrela.
Hotel da Vila, Hotel Berne, Casa da Raposa, Casa da Vila, Casa de São Lourenço, Casa das Penhas Douradas, Solar da Castanha, Paragem Serradalto, Hotel da Fábrica (not sorted by any specific order). Very different but all very good options.
Things to do in Serra da Estrela
But the most important thing is what to do… What is there to do in Estrela Mountains? Many things, I’d say. And different things, for all tastes.
Nature Tourism
By bike:
Cycling! This is undoubtedly the best way to get to know our mountain. Many of its points of interest and panoramic views are accessible by bike. And there are rides to suit all tastes! Easy, challenging, cycle touring and mountain biking. If you like cycling, Serra da Estrela is the place to be.
And we can help you. We’ve a range of one-day routes for you to do by Ebike, or multi-day Bike Tours to explore our region in a sustainable and fun way. If you can’t find the route that’s right for you, get in touch. You can also customize your multi-day bike tour and include other gastronomic and cultural experiences. We’ll do our best to give you the best possible experience.
On foot:
But there are places in Serra da Estrela where you can’t get there by bike. The only way to explore these places is by trekking. Here are some of the most interesting routes to take on foot in Serra da Estrela.
If you want to spend a few days doing nature tourism in Serra da Estrela, we’ll be happy to help you and prepare the best program for you, according to your preferences!
And what else? What else can you do in Serra da Estrela? Here are a few more suggestions:
Visit the Historical Villages and the Mountain Villages
Portugal Historical Villages
Around Serra da Estrela there are 12 Historical Villages that are definitely worth a visit. Strolling through the streets of these ancient villages is like traveling back in time, climbing the towers of their medieval castles and contemplating the surroundings is a breathtaking experience. The Historical Villages of Portugal are, along with Serra da Estrela, probably the greatest highlight of Portugal’s central interior region. You can visit them by car, or the best way possible, with one of our Bike Tours! Get in touch.
Mountain Villages
There are 41 Mountain Villages! Spread across the Serra da Estrela and its surroundings (the majority) and the neighboring Serra da Gardunha. Beautiful villages nestled in the mountains, authentic cribs with their old streets, some with granite or schist houses. A world full of culture and traditions. Our multi-day Bike Tours in Serra da Estrela also allow you to visit some of these beautiful villages. The Mountain Villages network has several walking and cycling routes for you to explore the surrounding area.
Visiting museums and other cultural activities
Museums
Around Serra da Estrela there are numerous museums on a wide variety of subjects. Another way to learn more about the area is to visit them. You’re sure to find at least one that matches your interests.
Burel Factories in Manteigas
Burel is a traditional tissue made exclusively from the wool of Serra da Estrela sheep. In the past, it was used by less well-off people, but today it is a more versatile product with impressive properties, as it is 100% natural. Burel is fire-resistant, can be used as acoustic and thermal insulation, has hygroscopic and anti-electrostatic properties, is abrasion-resistant and does not create pilling. Visit the Burel Factory or Ecolã (or booth) to learn how modern garments, accessories and utilities are produced using machinery from the last century! If you like, you can also buy items in the factory stores.
Accompanying the shepherd and his flock
Walk with the shepherd and his flock. This is a unique experience. Get to know the daily life of Mr. Manuel Balote. Son, grandson and great-grandson of shepherds, Mr. Manuel is a living memory of an ancient tradition. A little wine and cheese at the end. Would you like to come and spend a morning with the shepherd? Get in touch…
Wine tourism
In the Dão and Beira Interior wine regions there are several producers who offer visits to their properties, wineries and wine tastings. Some also offer accommodation. Undoubtedly an excellent option for wine lovers.
Visiting cheese factories
If you like cheese, visiting a cheese factory to learn how the traditional Serra da Estrela cheese is made, as well as the famous curd cheese, can be an excellent option and at the end you can buy some products if you wish.
Cheese factory Vale de Beijames in Verdelhos. Follow the flock of Bordaleiras Serra da Estrela sheep and visit the cheese factory. You can make an appointment with Filipe by calling +351 961 873 747.
Quinta da Pena cheese factory in Carragosela. To schedule your visit, talk to Inês on +351 914685134.
As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to visit Serra da Estrela. An unmissable destination!
Estrela Ebike is here to help you make the most of your visit to the region.
See you in Serra da Estrela!
With love,
Júlia & Nuno