Family Adventure in Serra da Estrela

Summiting Serra da Estrela's Giants

Today was a day of conquering heights, both literally and figuratively, as we explored the majestic Serra da Estrela. From the highest peak in mainland Portugal to stunning viewpoints and cozy bars, every moment felt like a scene from a movie. It's amazing how a change of scenery can truly invigorate the soul, reminding you of the beauty and adventure that life has to offer.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Varanda da Estrela. The traditional Portuguese pastries and strong coffee were just what we needed to fuel up for our ascent to Torre, the highest point in mainland Portugal. Astrid was especially excited, her little eyes sparkling with anticipation. Maximilian, ever the planner, checked our route one last time, ensuring we had everything we needed for a safe and enjoyable hike. The weather in Serra da Estrela in September is usually pleasantly warm and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 56—83°F (14—28°C).

As we drove towards Torre, the landscape transformed into a breathtaking panorama of rolling hills and rocky terrain. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers. Even though I miss the familiar comfort of Bamberg sometimes, especially our little garden, moments like these remind me why I love exploring new places. Torre itself was bustling with activity. We joined the throng of fellow travelers eager to snap photos and soak in the panoramic views. Astrid was particularly fascinated by the shops selling local products, her eyes wide with wonder at the handcrafted souvenirs and regional delicacies.


Explore Torre, the highest peak in Portugal, where breathtaking nature meets rich history in the stunning Serra da Estrela.

After Torre, we set our sights on Cântaro Magro, a rugged peak known for its glacial landscapes. The hike was invigorating, and the views from the top were simply stunning. The trail was mostly dry. Standing there, surrounded by such raw natural beauty, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. Maximilian pointed out different rock formations, explaining how they were shaped by glacial erosion over thousands of years. Astrid, surprisingly, was a trooper, navigating the rocky paths with the agility of a mountain goat. It was a moment of pure family bliss, a memory I knew we would cherish for years to come. I made a mental note to buy sunscreen, as I had forgotten it.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

Our next stop was Miradouro dos Piornos, Manteigas. From this vantage point, we gazed out over the Nave de Santo António and the Torre plateau, marveling at the sweeping vistas. The views offered a good perspective of the glaciation in the eastern sector of Serra da Estrela. The panoramic views of the Zêzere Valley and Serra Central Massif will leave you in awe.


Explore the stunning Miradouro dos Piornos for breathtaking views of Serra da Estrela, a tranquil spot perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Lunch at Penhas Da Saúde was a delightful experience. We savored traditional Portuguese dishes, each bite bursting with flavor and local charm. Astrid, always a fan of trying new things, even sampled some of the local cheese, much to our amusement. Maximilian and I shared a bottle of vinho verde, toasting to our incredible adventure and the many more to come. Restaurants in Penhas da Saúde offer a range of dining experiences.


Discover Penhas Da Saúde: A delightful restaurant in Cortes do Meio offering authentic Portuguese cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to Restaurante Vale Do Rossim for dinner. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and delicious menu were the perfect end to a day of exploration. The restaurant has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 on Restaurant Guru. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. The menu featured hearty, traditional dishes that warmed us from the inside out. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, sharing stories and laughing about our adventures of the day.


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

With our bellies full and our hearts content, we decided to check out Mellow Bar, Wine & Blues for a nightcap. The bar was alive with music, the soulful tunes creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. We sipped on local wines, tapping our feet to the rhythm of the blues. Astrid, despite her initial shyness, was soon swaying to the music, her face lit up with joy. Maximilian and I exchanged smiles, knowing that this was a night we would never forget. The bar offers an extensive selection of wines.


Discover the charm of Mellow Bar, Wine & Blues in Teixoso, where live music and fine wines create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

As I sit here now, writing in my travel journal, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we shared today. Serra da Estrela has truly captured our hearts, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and family fun. It's moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile, reminding me of the importance of creating lasting memories with the ones I love. The friendly atmosphere encourages guests to mingle and enjoy the company of both locals and fellow travelers.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Covão dos Conchos, Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais, and Fonte de Santo António da Argenteira, Manteigas. I'm particularly excited about Covão dos Conchos, a place I've seen in countless photos and can't wait to experience in person. I also plan to check out Boutique Presunto 2. I wonder what adventures and discoveries await us tomorrow? I can’t wait to find out!

As the day comes to a close, I reflect on the beauty and serenity of Serra da Estrela. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the present moment. I feel so lucky to share these experiences with Maximilian and Astrid, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The landscapes of Serra da Estrela are truly mesmerizing. Good night from Serra da Estrela!

Embracing the Unexpected

Today in Serra da Estrela was a reminder that the best travel experiences often come from the unexpected detours and spontaneous decisions. While we had a plan, the real magic happened when we allowed ourselves to veer off course and embrace the unknown.

We started our day with a delightful breakfast at Varanda da Estrela, a charming restaurant nestled in Penhas Da Saúde. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, instantly awakening our senses. Astrid, with her usual enthusiasm, devoured a pastel de nata, while Maximilian and I savored the local queijo da serra. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, decorated with traditional Portuguese artifacts.

Our initial plan was to hike directly to Torre, the highest point in mainland Portugal. However, as we drove along the winding mountain roads, we stumbled upon a sign pointing towards Cântaro Magro, a rugged peak known for its stunning views. Intrigued, we decided to take a detour and explore this hidden gem. The drive to Cântaro Magro was an adventure in itself, with hairpin turns and steep inclines that tested our little rental car to its limits. But the breathtaking scenery made it all worthwhile.

The hike to the summit of Cântaro Magro was challenging but rewarding. The trail wound its way through rocky terrain, with wildflowers and fragrant herbs lining the path. Astrid, surprisingly, kept up with us, her little legs pumping with determination. As we climbed higher, the views became increasingly spectacular, with panoramic vistas of the Serra da Estrela unfolding before us. Cântaro Magro is the most rugged peak of the Estrela with 1928 meters of altitude.

Reaching the summit, we were greeted by a breathtaking panorama of rolling hills, glacial valleys, and jagged peaks. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the sound of the wind whistling through the rocks. We spent a few moments simply soaking in the beauty of our surroundings, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such natural wonder. The peak has a prominence of 60m.

As we descended from Cântaro Magro, we noticed a small, unassuming sign pointing towards Miradouro dos Piornos. Curious, we decided to follow the sign, unsure of what we would find. The road to Miradouro dos Piornos was narrow and winding, but eventually, we arrived at a stunning viewpoint overlooking the Nave de Santo António and the Torre plateau. The view was simply breathtaking, with the vast expanse of the Serra da Estrela stretching out before us. The structure was adapted to the characteristics of the terrain, fitting harmoniously into the landscape.

Lunch at Penhas Da Saúde was a welcome respite after our adventurous morning. We feasted on traditional Portuguese cuisine, savoring the flavors of the region. Astrid, always eager to try new things, devoured a hearty bowl of caldo verde, while Maximilian and I indulged in a plate of grilled sardines. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike. ViaMichelin has restaurants in Penhas da Saúde.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurante Vale Do Rossim for dinner. The restaurant was nestled in a picturesque valley, surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel right at home. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the flavors of traditional Portuguese dishes. The restaurant guarantees good soup.

After dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a nightcap at Mellow Bar, Wine & Blues. The bar was alive with music, with a local band playing soulful blues tunes. We sipped on local wines, tapping our feet to the rhythm and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Astrid, despite her initial shyness, was soon dancing along to the music, her face lit up with joy. The bar is known for its inviting ambiance.

As I reflect on our day, I realize that the best moments were the ones we didn't plan. The unexpected detour to Cântaro Magro, the spontaneous decision to visit Miradouro dos Piornos, and the impromptu dance party at Mellow Bar, Wine & Blues – these were the experiences that made our day truly special. The bar is more than just a bar; it's a cultural experience.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Covão dos Conchos, Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais, and Fonte de Santo António da Argenteira, Manteigas. I'm excited to see what unexpected adventures await us. And of course, I'm looking forward to trying more of the local cuisine and soaking in the beauty of the Serra da Estrela. The miradouro offers a breathtaking view over Cova da Beira and Covilhã.

Finding Serenity in the Stars

Serra da Estrela, with its towering peaks and serene landscapes, offers a sanctuary for the soul. Today, we embraced the tranquility of this mountain range, finding moments of peace and reflection amidst the breathtaking scenery.

Our day began with a leisurely breakfast at Varanda da Estrela, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and stunning views. The restaurant is decorated with artifacts from the Serra. We savored the flavors of freshly baked bread, local cheese, and strong coffee, all while gazing out at the rolling hills of the Serra da Estrela. The space is an art of good service, where gastronomy, culture and popular traditions sit with you at the table.

Our first stop of the day was Torre, the highest point in mainland Portugal. As we ascended towards the summit, the landscape transformed into a rugged, rocky terrain. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers. Reaching the top, we were greeted by a panoramic vista of the Serra da Estrela, with its towering peaks and glacial valleys stretching out before us. Deste tremendo miradouro consegue-se um panorama brutal sobre toda esta paisagem de vales e rochedos.

After Torre, we sought out the more secluded Cântaro Magro, a rugged peak known for its glacial landscapes. The hike to the summit was challenging but rewarding, with steep inclines and rocky paths that tested our endurance. As we climbed higher, the views became increasingly spectacular, with glimpses of glacial lakes and jagged peaks peeking through the clouds. Cântaro Magro is the most rugged peak of the Estrela.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

Reaching the summit, we were enveloped in a sense of tranquility. The silence was broken only by the sound of the wind whistling through the rocks, creating a symphony of nature. We sat in silence, simply soaking in the beauty of our surroundings, feeling grateful for the opportunity to connect with nature in such a profound way. The peak is deeply incised by glacial erosion in its flanks.

Next, we ventured to Miradouro dos Piornos, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Nave de Santo António and the Torre plateau. From this vantage point, we gazed out at the vast expanse of the Serra da Estrela, with its rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and lush forests. The viewpoint offers a perfect vision of the effects of glaciation in the landscape of the Geopark Estrela.

Lunch at Penhas Da Saúde was a delightful experience, with traditional Portuguese dishes served in a cozy, rustic setting. We savored the flavors of grilled sardines, hearty stews, and local cheeses, all while enjoying the warm hospitality of the staff. The restaurants have Michelin stars.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurante Vale Do Rossim for dinner, a charming eatery known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the flavors of hearty stews, grilled meats, and local wines. Vale do Rossim EcoResort provides a restaurant and a bar lounge with a view of the mountains.

After dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a nightcap at Mellow Bar, Wine & Blues, a lively venue known for its soulful music and extensive wine selection. We sipped on local wines, tapping our feet to the rhythm of the blues and enjoying the company of fellow travelers. The bar invites you to unwind and revel in the melodies of talented musicians.

As I sit here now, writing in my travel journal, I can't help but feel grateful for the serenity I found in the Serra da Estrela today. The towering peaks, serene landscapes, and soulful music have all contributed to a sense of peace and reflection. It's a reminder that even amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, there are always opportunities to find moments of tranquility and connect with the beauty of the natural world. The bar is an essential stop on your travels through Teixoso.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Covão dos Conchos, Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais, and Fonte de Santo António da Argenteira, Manteigas. I'm excited to discover more of the hidden gems of the Serra da Estrela and to continue our journey of serenity and self-discovery. The mountains of Portugal are the answer to the Alps.