Covilha stands out as a prime base for exploring Portugal’s Serra da Estrela, Europe’s highest mountain range. Its strategic location and welcoming local vibe make it an excellent starting point for a variety of tours. We particularly enjoy the From Covilhã: Tour Serra da Estrela e Covão d’metade for its comprehensive coverage of the region’s stunning landscapes and authentic local products. This tour combines scenic viewpoints, traditional shops, and the chance to taste Serra da Estrela cheese—a true gastronomic wonder. Plus, the stops at Vale Glaciar and Torre offer unforgettable vistas and photo opportunities.
Covilha’s advantage lies in its close proximity to diverse experiences, from high-altitude viewpoints to off-road jeep rides and cultural visits. If you’re interested in nature, history, or cuisine, you’ll find something to match your interests here. Many of these tours are tailored for small groups, which makes for a more personal and engaging experience. For example, the Serra da Estrela: Private E-Bike Tour with Observatory offers a peaceful ride through forested trails with spectacular mountain views—perfect for active travelers who want to experience Serra da Estrela at a relaxed pace.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best tours in Covilha, covering everything from scenic excursions and off-road adventures to cultural day trips and even stargazing sessions. Each offers something unique, so whether you’re after a quick half-day jaunt or a full-day adventure, you’ll find your match.
1. From Covilhã: Tour Serra da Estrela e Covão d’metade
At number 1, this full 4-hour guided tour takes you to some of the most iconic sights in Serra da Estrela. It includes stops at Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais, where panoramic views will leave you breathless, and the highest point in Portugal, Torre. You’ll get to explore the Vale Glaciar, Europe’s largest glacial valley, and enjoy tasting local Serra da Estrela cheese, one of Portugal’s seven gastronomic wonders. The tour also features visits to traditional shops so you can sample regional products. Reviewers praise the flexibility of the stops and the informative guides who bring the landscape to life. This trip is perfect if you want a comprehensive taste of Serra’s natural beauty and local culture.
Bottom line: A well-rounded tour that combines scenic vistas, culinary delights, and cultural insight, ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting an overview of Serra da Estrela.
2. Serra da Estrela: Tour of the Natural Highlights
This 3.5-hour tour from Covilha takes you to the region’s most breathtaking viewpoints and highlights. It includes visits to Penhas de Saúde, Manteigas, and the iconic Serra da Estrela mountain itself. With seven pickup points, the tour offers flexibility and comfort. The guide provides insights into the mountain’s geology and natural history, making it both educational and picturesque. Guests appreciate the ease of the experience, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and pay later, making it accessible for last-minute plans.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers short on time but eager to soak up Serra’s striking landscapes, especially if you enjoy a guided experience with flexible options.
3. Serra da Estrela: Private E-Bike Tour with Observatory
Number 3 on our list is the private e-bike tour that combines adventure with serenity. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll glide through lush woods, enjoy sweeping mountain views, and learn about Serra’s stories and traditions. The e-bike makes tackling hills easier, making it suitable for most fitness levels. During hot days, you can cool off in the Mondego River, adding a refreshing twist. Guests rave about the landscapes, the ease of the ride, and the friendly guides, making this a top choice for active travelers.
Bottom line: An excellent way to experience Serra’s natural beauty up close without intense physical exertion, suited for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
4. From Covilhã: Serra da Estrela Guided Tour with Lunch
This guided 4-hour tour combines sightseeing with local cuisine. You’ll visit the Torre and Senhora da Boa Estrela, enjoying panoramic views and exploring the highest point in Portugal. The tour includes a delicious restaurant lunch where you can taste regional dishes and cheeses. Stops at Piornos, Nave Santo António, Barragem Covão do Ferro, and Poio do Judeu make for a well-rounded day. Travelers love the mix of natural scenery and authentic food experiences.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a full day of sightseeing coupled with a hearty local meal, especially if you’re interested in cultural and culinary immersion.
5. Serra da Estrela – Half-day off-road tour with cheese tasting
Number 5 offers an off-road adventure, riding in a comfortable 4×4 jeep through Serra’s snow-dusted peaks and mountain trails. This half-day tour is a thrill for those who love exploring less accessible landscapes. The guide takes you to hidden nooks and scenic viewpoints, then treats you to tasting Serra’s famous cheeses. The reviews highlight the stunning landscapes and the opportunity to capture memorable photos. It’s ideal if you want an adrenaline rush combined with tasting regional culinary delights.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure lovers who want to see Serra from a different perspective and indulge in local flavors.
6. Serra da Estrela: An emblematic walk with breathtaking scenery
This full-day walk is designed for those seeking a deep connection with Serra’s landscape. Led by experienced guides, the route takes you through incredible viewpoints like Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais and includes time to relax at Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela. The itinerary allows flexibility with stops for photos, regional food, and free time. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the personalized experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive scenic hike with local insights, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Serra da Estrela Canyoning
Number 7, the canyoning adventure, offers a splashy, fun experience in Serra’s crystal-clear waters. Suitable for beginners and those with some canyoning experience, this 4-hour activity takes you through low to medium difficulty routes featuring abseiling, jumping, sliding, and walking. The landscapes are spectacular, with steep canyon walls and waterfalls. Reviewers mention the pure waters and the thrill of navigating natural slides and jumps.
Bottom line: A great pick for active travelers craving an adrenaline rush amid stunning scenery.
8. From Covilhã: Torre Serra da Estrela / Manteigas e Belmonte
Number 8 offers a 7-hour guided tour covering Serra’s top sights, including the Torre, Manteigas, and Belmonte. It’s perfect for those wanting an in-depth exploration of the region’s natural and cultural highlights, with panoramic stops and visits to historic villages. The tour includes a stop at Lagoa Comprida and a quick pass through Sabugueiro. The reviews praise the detailed guide and the opportunity to see Serra in all its winter glory, especially with snow.
Bottom line: For travelers who want a full-day, immersive experience with scenic views and cultural stops, this tour covers a lot of ground.
9. Serra da Estrela – Excursão com degustação de queijo da serra
This 3-4 hour tour centers on tasting Serra da Estrela cheese while exploring the mountain’s natural beauty. It’s especially suited for lovers of regional culinary specialties who want to learn about cheese production and enjoy scenic stops. Visitors love the opportunity to try regional cheeses on-site and to see the high mountains covered in snow during winter. The guide shares local stories, adding depth to the tasting experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies wanting a short, flavorful experience in Serra’s scenic setting.
10. Covilhã: Serra da Estrela and Aldeia de Xisto Piódão Tour
Number 10 combines natural beauty with cultural charm on a 7-hour tour. It features visits to the scenic Miradouro dos Piornos, the highest point at Torre, and the picturesque schist village of Piódão, which looks like a living postcard. The route includes cheese tasting and a scenic drive through Serra. Travelers appreciate the blend of mountain views, historic architecture, and local crafts.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who love scenic drives and charming villages, combining natural and cultural sights.
11. Wine tasting and a visit to the winery
For a different flavor of Covilha, the wine tasting experience offers a quick 30-minute visit to a local winery, where you sample three wines paired with regional cheeses. It’s a good option for wine lovers wanting a taste of Portugal’s Vinho Verde and other local varieties without a long commitment. The intimate setting provides insights into local wine-making traditions.
Bottom line: Short and sweet, this tour is perfect for those interested in Portugal’s wine culture and regional cheeses.
12. Covilhã: Stargazing experience
Number 12 offers a magical 3-hour stargazing session above 1500 meters with a professional astronomer. You’ll learn to identify constellations and planets, making it a special night for science buffs and romantics alike. The small group size (up to 8) ensures personalized attention, and pickup from Covilha makes logistics straightforward.
Bottom line: A memorable, educational, and beautiful way to spend an evening under Portugal’s starry sky—great for families and couples.
13. Dão-Lafões: Wine Food & OffRoad Tour
Number 13 is a full-immersion experience combining wine, food, and off-road adventure in the Dão-Lafões region. It’s perfect for those who want to explore wineries, enjoy local cuisine, and jump into a 4×4 for scenic drives through rugged terrain. The tour’s focus on local flavors and wild landscapes makes it one of our favorites for authentic regional exploration.
Bottom line: Best suited for adventurous gourmets seeking a comprehensive taste of Dão-Lafões’s food and wine scene with a dash of adrenaline.
14. Full-day tour from Lisbon to Serra da Estrela, Seia, and Viseu
This 10-hour day trip from Lisbon hits Serra’s highlights along with visits to Seia and Viseu. It’s ideal for travelers who want a whirlwind overview of the region, combining natural scenery, cultural sites, and local cuisine. The itinerary includes multiple stops, guided tours, and free time for shopping or exploring.
Bottom line: Perfect for those short on time but hungry for a deep dive into Serra da Estrela’s varied offerings from a comfortable base in Lisbon.
15. Lisbon: Private Tour to Fatima, Obidos Castle, and N
azare
Number 15 offers an immersive 9-hour private experience to iconic sites like Fatima’s spiritual sanctuary, Nªzare’s record-breaking waves, and the medieval walls of Óbidos. Led by a dedicated chauffeur or guide, this tour combines religion, history, and coastal scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized, comfortable day trip with flexible stops and in-depth visits.
Bottom line: A tailored experience perfect for those wanting to combine spiritual, historical, and seaside sights comfortably.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Covilha
When selecting a tour, think about your priorities: Do you want a full day of scenic exploration with lunch, or are you more interested in adventure activities like canyoning or e-bike riding? Budget and time are also key—if you’re short on hours, the half-day off-road or short wine tasting might suit you best. Those with a love for stars or night skies will want to check out the stargazing experience, while active travelers should consider the E-bike or canyoning options.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, and always check availability—many tours have flexible cancellation policies, making last-minute plans easier. Consider your physical fitness, interests, and whether you prefer guided cultural insights or independent adventures.
Final Thoughts
Covilha offers a wide spectrum of tour options, whether you want to hike to panoramic viewpoints, ride through lush forests, taste regional cheeses, or gaze at stars above the mountains. For a balanced experience, the Serra da Estrela Guided Tour with Lunch provides a good mix of scenery, culture, and delicious local food. For adventure lovers, the canyoning or off-road jeep tours deliver adrenaline and natural beauty in equal measure.
Travelers seeking a more immersive cultural experience might prefer the full-day trip from Lisbon or the Piódão village. Whatever your style or budget, Covilha’s tours promise authentic encounters and stunning landscapes worth exploring. Be sure to book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot on these memorable adventures.
