Family Adventure in Serra da Estrela

A Day of Discoveries

Today was all about embracing the raw beauty of Serra da Estrela. We set out with a simple plan: to soak in as many panoramic views as possible and to stumble upon some hidden gems along the way. The crisp mountain air and the promise of stunning landscapes fueled our adventure. It's days like these that remind me why I love travel blogging – sharing these experiences with you all is such a joy!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Luna Hotel Serra da Estrela. It felt so good to charge the batteries for a day of adventures in the mountains. The hotel's Restaurante Medieval offered a delightful array of local cheeses, fresh bread, and strong coffee. Astrid was particularly fond of the local honey, spreading it generously on her toast. Maximilian enjoyed the cheese. As always!

First stop: Miradouro Serra do Açor. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads that offered glimpses of the vast valleys below. The landscape was painted in autumnal hues, a stark contrast to the blues and greens of our Bamberg home. When we arrived at the miradouro, the view was nothing short of breathtaking. The Serra do Açor stretches out like a wrinkled green blanket, with quaint villages nestled in its folds. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly do it justice. It was a moment to be savored, a reminder of the sheer scale and beauty of nature.


Experience the natural beauty of Portugal at Miradouro Serra do Açor, a breathtaking viewpoint offering stunning panoramas of the Serra do Açor mountains.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet, awe-inspiring corners of the natural world.

Afterward, we continued our drive, aiming for the Vista panorâmica da serra da Estrela. This viewpoint offered a different perspective, showcasing the rugged peaks and deep valleys that define the Serra da Estrela. The air was noticeably cooler here, and the wind carried the scent of pine and damp earth. Astrid, ever the curious one, collected fallen pine cones, declaring them treasures from the mountain. Maximilian pointed out various peaks, sharing his rudimentary knowledge of geology (a subject he's been inexplicably fascinated with lately).


Experience the breathtaking panoramic views from the highest point in Portugal at the Serra da Estrela, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.

Lunch was at Restaurante Medieval back at the Luna Hotel Serra da Estrela, and it was like stepping back in time. The stone walls, wooden beams, and crackling fireplace created a cozy atmosphere. We indulged in traditional Portuguese fare – hearty stew, crusty bread, and, of course, more of that delicious Serra da Estrela cheese. Astrid even tried a small piece of the local sausage, wrinkling her nose at the unfamiliar spices. The restaurant is located in Penhas da Saúde, one of the highest and most emblematic areas of the mountains, about 1500 meters high.

Our final scenic stop was Cabeça do Mouro. The rock formation resembling a Moor's head was intriguing, sparking stories of ancient battles and Moorish legends. Astrid was fascinated by the shape, imagining a brave warrior standing guard over the mountains. I found myself pondering the history of this place, the countless generations who had gazed upon this same view. The origin of the name is unknown, but it is assumed that the choice of head is related to its meaning, 'summit of the mountain', being very common in toponymy. Perhaps, the appearance of the head, who knows if it resembles the head of a Moor, with a turban, would have dictated the designation of the place.


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

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to Covilhã for dinner. Taberna A Laranjinha was a delightful find, tucked away in the historic center of town. The taberna served up a variety of traditional petiscos (Portuguese tapas) , each bursting with flavor. We sampled local cheeses, cured meats, and savory pastries, washing it all down with a crisp Vinho Verde. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with locals and tourists mingling and sharing stories. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


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

After dinner, Maximilian and I decided to check out the local nightlife. We found ourselves at Ex-Libris Club a popular nightclub in Covilhã. The music was loud, the crowd was energetic, and the atmosphere was electric. We danced for a while, letting loose and enjoying the vibrant energy of the place. Astrid, of course, was fast asleep back at the hotel, dreaming of pine cones and Moorish warriors.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ex-Libris Club in Covilhã, where electrifying music and energetic crowds create unforgettable nights.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Lagoa das Salgadeiras, Criança con mensaje, and Miradouro do Penedo c'Abana / Penedo Oscilante. I am particularly excited about the last one, as I read it is an oscillating rock, and Astrid will love it!

Today was a reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones that aren't meticulously planned. It's about embracing the unexpected, venturing off the beaten path, and allowing yourself to be surprised by the beauty that surrounds you. Serra da Estrela, you've certainly cast your spell on us.

Until tomorrow!

Elin