Covilha may be best known for its mountain scenery and outdoor activities, but this charming Portuguese town also offers some exceptional food tours that showcase the region’s rich flavors. From visiting traditional wineries to sampling mountain cheeses, these experiences are perfect for travelers eager to taste local specialties in authentic settings. We especially like the Dão-Lafões Wine Food & OffRoad Tour for its combination of wild nature and culinary delights, making it a perfect choice for those who want a bit of adventure with their gastronomy. Meanwhile, the Serra da Estrela – Food and Mountain Experience stands out for its focus on mountain cheeses and local stories, giving a personalized look at rural life. Whether you’re after a scenic drive, a cheese tasting, or a wine tour, Covilha offers a variety of ways to indulge your appetite.
Below, we’ve compiled the best food tours in Covilha that combine local flavors, unique experiences, and great value. Read on to find the perfect match for your culinary curiosity.
1. Dão-Lafões: Wine Food & OffRoad Tour
At number 1 on our list is the Dão-Lafões: Wine Food & OffRoad Tour. This 4-hour adventure costs around $493 per group, up to 6 people, making it an intimate way to experience Portugal’s best gastronomy and wild nature. The tour includes visits to local wine producers, some good regional restaurants, and historic sights like old Moorish towers. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of culinary tasting and outdoor exploration.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on off-road adventures, which take you into the scenic Norte Region’s rugged landscape. You’ll get to sample regional wines, paired with local foods, and learn about the winemaking process directly from the producers. The guide is knowledgeable, sharing insights into both the history and culture of the area. Guests often comment on the beautiful scenery and the chance to combine wine and adventure—a real treat if you’re after a memorable, active food experience. The small group size ensures a personalized feel, and the tour’s price reflects the exclusive access to private wine cellars and sites.
Bottom Line: Perfect for lovers of wine, off-roading, and authentic regional cuisine, this tour offers a balanced blend of nature, history, and gastronomy.
2. Serra da Estrela – Food and Mountain Experience
The Serra da Estrela – Food and Mountain Experience is a 4-hour journey through the heart of Portugal’s mountain traditions. It’s especially suited for those who want to understand local rural life while sampling some of the most iconic mountain flavors. The experience includes visiting a traditional sheep farm, where you’ll see sheep grazing and learn about sheep herding practices. Following this, you’ll enjoy cheese and curd tasting, showcasing Serra da Estrela’s famous sheep’s milk products.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized and relaxed approach. Your guide stays with you throughout, sharing stories about local food, family farms, and regional customs. Guests praise the authenticity and the chance to taste directly from the source. The highlight is the Serra da Estrela cheese, which is considered one of Portugal’s finest; tasting it fresh after visiting the farm is a highlight. This tour offers excellent value, especially for those interested in cheese making and mountain gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cheese lovers and those curious about rural mountain traditions, this experience provides a deep dive into Serra da Estrela’s culinary culture.
How to Choose Between These Food Tours
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re eager for a wine-focused adventure that combines off-road exploration and historical sights, the Dão-Lafões Wine Food & OffRoad Tour is your best bet. It offers a unique blend of nature and oenology, perfect for adventure-loving wine enthusiasts.
On the other hand, if your main goal is to learn about local mountain traditions and enjoy cheese tastings in authentic settings, the Serra da Estrela – Food and Mountain Experience provides a personalized, slow-paced look at rural life.
Both tours are around 4 hours, making them easy to fit into a day. The wine tour’s higher price includes exclusive access and off-road activities, while the mountain experience emphasizes local food and personal storytelling. Think about whether you prefer wines and outdoor adventure or mountain cheeses and rural charm.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Covilha offers diverse food experiences that give a true taste of Portugal’s regional flavors. For a scenic, wine-focused trip, the Dão-Lafões tour delivers a memorable blend of nature, history, and wine. If you prefer a rural, cheese-tasting adventure, the Serra da Estrela experience provides a warm, authentic look at mountain traditions.
For active travelers, both tours offer enriching experiences that go beyond just tasting—bringing you closer to the land and people behind Portugal’s delicious foods. Be sure to book early, especially in high season, to enjoy these flavorful journeys without disappointment. Either way, your palate will thank you for exploring Covilha’s delicious side.
