A Solo Adventure in the Majestic Serra da Estrela

A View from the Top

Today was all about embracing the vastness of Serra da Estrela, a day of panoramic views and local tastes that painted a vivid picture of this stunning region. The crisp November air, with temperatures ranging from a high of 14°C to a low of 5°C, added a refreshing bite to the already breathtaking scenery. It's amazing how the weather here can shift so quickly, reminding you of nature's ever-present power.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante e Loja De Desportos LINDEZA in Cortes do Meio. It wasn't the best experience, to be honest, with some mixed reviews online. But hey, every adventure has its bumps, right? I fueled up with some coffee and cheese bread, hoping the views would be better than the food. It was a quick stop, and I was soon back on the road, eager to see what the day had in store.

The first stop was Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais, and wow, it truly lived up to its reputation. The views of the mountains and valley were simply stunning. The viewpoint sits at 1130 meters of altitude, offering a sweeping vista of the southeastern slope of Serra da Estrela and the city of Covilhã. It felt like standing on the edge of the world, with the landscape stretching out endlessly before me. I spent a good hour just soaking it all in, snapping photos, and breathing in the fresh mountain air. It was the perfect spot for reflection, a moment to appreciate the sheer beauty of our planet.


Discover stunning panoramic views and serene landscapes at Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais in Covilhã, Portugal, a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those that lead us to a higher vantage point, offering a clearer perspective on life itself.

Next on the agenda was Cabeça do Mouro. This rock formation is said to resemble the silhouette of a Moorish warrior's head. It was definitely a unique sight, a natural sculpture carved by time and weather. The area around Cabeça do Mouro had a raw, untamed feel, a reminder of the ancient history embedded in these lands. It's fascinating how nature can create such distinct shapes, sparking our imagination and connecting us to the stories of the past. I imagined warriors of old standing guard here, gazing out over the same landscape, defending their territory.


Discover Cabeça do Mouro, a captivating tourist attraction in Portugal, where nature meets history in breathtaking landscapes and rich folklore.

For lunch, I stopped at Taberna A Laranjinha in Covilhã, a Michelin Guide-recommended spot. This was a culinary highlight! The taberna is housed in a traditional granite house in the historic center of Covilhã. I indulged in some local tapas, including the divine Pastel de Molho da Covilhã (a meat-filled pastry soaked in vinegar). The flavors were rich and authentic, a true taste of the region. The service was friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. This place definitely lives up to its reputation, offering a genuine and memorable dining experience. It was so good that I considered ordering another round, but I knew I had more to see and do.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Taberna A Laranjinha in Covilhã - where tradition meets flavor.

After lunch, I decided to check out Centro Comercial da Torre, a shopping center located at the highest point of the Serra da Estrela. It’s quite a unique experience to shop for local products at such an altitude. The Centro Comercial da Torre has a variety of shops selling regional goods such as Serra da Estrela cheese, wool products, honey, and bread. I picked up a few souvenirs for Olivia and myself, including some local cheese and a warm wool scarf. It's a bit touristy, but it's also a convenient place to find quality local products.


Explore the best of Alvoco da Serra at Centro Comercial da Torre, a vibrant department store offering local crafts, trendy fashion, and delicious cuisine.

As the day wound down, I headed to Restaurante Vale Do Rossim for dinner. Located near the Vale do Rossim Eco Resort, it offered a serene setting to reflect on the day's adventures. The food was hearty and comforting, perfect for a chilly evening in the mountains. I enjoyed a traditional Portuguese meal, savoring the flavors of the region. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were welcoming and attentive. It was a great way to end a day of exploration.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante Vale Do Rossim amidst stunning landscapes.

Today was a reminder of why I love solo travel. It allows me to fully immerse myself in the experience, to set my own pace, and to truly connect with the environment. I found myself reflecting on my life back in Toronto, on my work as an urban planner, and on my connection to my Caribbean roots. It's amazing how a change of scenery can bring new perspectives and insights.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited to explore more of Serra da Estrela's natural beauty. The itinerary includes Miradouro do Vale Glaciar and Poio Estrela, promising more stunning views and hiking opportunities. I'm also looking forward to trying out a new restaurant for breakfast, Restaurante O Olival, and perhaps ending the day with a drink at Con.M'Irla bar. Each day here brings new adventures and discoveries, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this experience. Serra da Estrela has captured my heart with its stunning landscapes, its rich culture, and its warm hospitality. It's a place that I know I'll remember for a long time to come.

Tomorrow, I plan on exploring the glacial valley viewpoint and Poio Estrela. Maybe I'll even find a nice spot to enjoy a glass of wine at Con.M'Irla to cap off the day.

Until then, good night from Serra da Estrela!