From Covilhã: Torre Serra da Estrela / Manteigas e Belmonte

Discovering Serra da Estrela: An Honest Look at the Covilhã Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Portugal’s highest peaks and taking in some spectacular mountain scenery, this guided tour from Covilhã offers a solid option. While I haven’t experienced it myself, reviews and details suggest it’s a day packed with diverse sights, cultural stops, and memorable views. It’s designed for those who want to explore the Serra in a comfortable, guided format without the hassle of planning every step.

One thing I really appreciate about this tour is the focus on panoramic vistas from the top of Serra da Estrela, which promise some of the best photo opportunities and awe-inspiring moments you’ll get in Portugal. Plus, the inclusion of regional tastings—cheese and liqueurs—adds a delicious local touch. On the flip side, a potential downside is the long day’s schedule, which might feel a bit rushed if you prefer a more leisurely pace. Nonetheless, it’s well-suited for travelers eager to see a variety of highlights in one go.

This tour is probably best suited for adventurous travelers eager to get a comprehensive sense of Serra da Estrela’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. It’s also a good pick if you want a guided experience that takes the hassle out of organizing transport and stops, especially if you’re short on time or aren’t comfortable navigating the mountain roads on your own.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines scenery, villages, and cultural highlights in one day.
• Expert guidance: Made for the driver, so you can relax and enjoy the views.
• Panoramic views: From the Serra da Estrela Tower, the highest point in Portugal.
• Authentic regional tastings: Cheese and liqueurs showcase local flavors.
• Historical stops: Visit Belmonte and Manteigas, with their rich pasts.
• Weather flexibility: Tour runs only if conditions are good, with options for rescheduling or refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

When we talk about a full-day tour like this, what really matters is how smoothly everything flows and whether you genuinely get to see and experience the region’s essence. From Covilhã, the journey kicks off at 9:00 AM with a pickup at your hotel, which sets a comfortable, personalized tone from the start. The small-group, private nature of the tour means you’re not just another face in a crowd, and the guide’s knowledge makes a big difference.

The Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

The first stops are carefully chosen to give you a taste of the mountain’s grandeur. The Varanda dos Carqueijais is a quick, 15-minute stop, but don’t underestimate it—this lookout offers sweeping views over Cova da Beira, perfect for snapping a few photos and getting your first feel of the landscape. We loved the way the guide highlighted particular features in the landscape, making it more than just a photo stop.

Next, the Piornos Viewpoint is known for its spectacular overlook of Santo Antônio, Covão do Ferro Dam, and Poio Judeu. This 15-minute pause is a favorite among travelers for the chance to breathe in the mountain air and marvel at the rugged terrain. As one reviewer noted, “the views are incredible,” and it’s easy to see why.

Exploring the Mountain Villages

Moving on, the Covão d’Ametade offers another quick stop with its scenic beauty—ideal for a brief walk and some photos. Then, it’s onto Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela, a short 10-minute visit that provides a different perspective of the region’s natural features.

The highlight for many is the Serra da Estrela Tower, which reaches an impressive 1993 meters. The 1-minute guided tour here isn’t long, but it’s enough to stand atop Portugal’s highest point and soak in the endless views that stretch for miles. The fact that you can taste typical Serra products in traditional shops nearby makes this spot a memorable cultural highlight.

Exploring Lagoa Comprida and the Highest Village

Further along, the Lagoa Comprida provides a peaceful, scenic stop for about 10 minutes, where the calm waters mirror the surrounding mountains—perfect for a short rest. Passing through Sabugueiro, the highest village in Portugal, you get a glimpse into mountain life—though you’ll only pass by, the imagery sticks with visitors.

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Belmonte: A Town of Deep Roots

The journey continues to Belmonte, a town with a history nearly as old as Portugal itself. The castle (external view), the Church of Santiago, and the Pantheon dos Cabrais are key sites that reveal the town’s past, especially its connections to the Jewish community and the explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral, who is also commemorated here.

Visitors have praised the guided tour of Belmonte, noting that the guide’s insights made the history come alive. The statue of Cabral is a proud reminder of Portugal’s maritime accomplishments, and the views from Belmonte offer a sweeping look over the Serra.

Tasting and Cultural Highlights

One of the tour’s standout features is the opportunity to sample Serra da Estrela cheese and regional liqueurs**. Travelers have enjoyed these tastings as a way to connect with local flavors and traditions. The inclusion of free water and Wi-Fi during the day adds a touch of comfort, especially on a busy full-day trip.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 7 hours, with a flexible schedule depending on weather conditions. It’s priced at $305 for a group of up to three, which makes it quite reasonable considering the personalized service and the inclusions. The tour is private, which means you aren’t sharing with strangers, and that can really enhance the experience.

It’s worth noting that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan for a meal in Belmonte or during the stop. Entry fees for monuments aren’t included either, but the guide often provides enough context to make the external visits worthwhile.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic drives, cultural stops, and local food and drink, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a comprehensive but manageable day in Serra da Estrela without the stress of organizing transport or navigation.

It also fits well for those who value expert guidance—the reviews especially praise the guide’s attentiveness and knowledge. While not specifically designed as a family adventure, older children or teenagers with an interest in nature and history would find plenty to enjoy.

However, if you’re sensitive to altitude or prefer a slower pace, keep in mind that some stops are brief, and the altitude might be an issue if you suffer from altitude sickness. Weather can also influence the experience, especially in winter when snow is common—so flexible scheduling is a plus.

Final Thoughts

This Covilhã tour is a well-rounded way to see some of Portugal’s most breathtaking mountain scenery combined with charming villages and cultural sites. The guided format, inclusive tastings, and scenic viewpoints make it a compelling choice for those wanting to get a good sense of Serra da Estrela’s natural and cultural appeal.

You’ll love the ease of having a driver and guide take care of logistics while you soak in the views and enjoy some regional flavors. The price is fair for what’s included, especially considering the personalized, private experience.

While it’s not the most leisurely way to explore, if you’re up for a full day of sights, stories, and tastes, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a taste of Portugal’s highest mountain and its local charm—without the hassle of planning every detail.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children and teenagers interested in scenery and history should enjoy it. Keep in mind the altitude and the full-day schedule.

What is included in the price?
The price covers an exclusive guide, free water and Wi-Fi, and regional tastings of Serra da Estrela cheese and liqueurs. Lunch and monument entries are not included.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 7 hours, starting from 9:00 AM with hotel pickup and returning around 4:00-5:00 PM.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is subject to good weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you can get a full refund or reschedule.

What should I bring?
Bring some snacks or lunch, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera for all those incredible views.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for a private group, which means a more tailored experience.

Are there any restrictions?
Drinks and food are not allowed in the vehicle; alcohol, drugs, and electric wheelchairs are also prohibited.

Does the tour include any stops at local shops?
Yes, you’ll have opportunities to taste regional cheese and liqueurs in traditional shops during the day.

Are the stops long enough to explore?
Stops are generally short but well-chosen for scenic or cultural impact, with enough time to take photos and soak in the atmosphere.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Many say it’s standing atop the Serra da Estrela Tower and taking in the expansive mountain views—truly unforgettable.

In all, if you’re after a detailed, scenic, and culturally rich day in Portugal’s highest region, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to make it happen.

You can check availability for your dates here: