Family Adventure in Serra da Estrela

Whispers of Wonder: A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of uncovering secrets, of stumbling upon landscapes that whispered ancient stories. Serra da Estrela has a way of making you feel incredibly small yet intimately connected to something vast and timeless. It’s a feeling I’m eager to share as we continue our family adventure.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mirante da Estrela. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Portuguese coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. Astrid, fueled by a pastry, was particularly excited, her little eyes sparkling with anticipation. Maximilian and I savored the moment, knowing that days like these are the ones we'll cherish most. We enjoyed some local delicacies, including the famous Serra cheese with a quince compote – a delightful combination of savory and sweet.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Mirante da Estrela while enjoying stunning mountain views in Sabugueiro.

Our first stop was the enigmatic Covão dos Conchos. I had seen pictures, of course, but nothing prepares you for the reality of this surreal place. The hike itself was invigorating, a 4-kilometer trek that wound alongside the Lagoa Comprida. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. As we rounded a bend, the glory hole, as some call it, came into view. It’s an extraordinary sight – a man-made spillway that looks like a portal to another world. The water cascaded down into the depths, creating a mesmerizing vortex. Astrid was captivated, asking endless questions about where the water went and how it was made. I found myself pondering the ingenuity of the engineers who conceived such a structure, a testament to human innovation nestled within the raw beauty of nature. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, explained the mechanics of it to Astrid in a way that even a six-year-old could understand. It was a perfect family moment, blending wonder with education.


Discover the captivating beauty of Covão dos Conchos in Serra da Estrela Nature Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Leaving Covão dos Conchos, we drove towards Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais. The drive itself was an adventure, the roads winding and climbing, each turn revealing a new vista more breathtaking than the last. As we arrived at the viewpoint, the landscape opened up before us in a panorama of rolling hills and distant mountains. The balcony, a suspended walkway, offered an unparalleled vantage point. The wind carried whispers of the valley below, and the sun painted the hills in hues of gold and green. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but some views are simply too grand to be contained in a frame. Astrid, never one to be easily impressed by scenery, was actually quiet for a few minutes, simply gazing at the vista. Maximilian and I took a moment to appreciate the sheer scale of the landscape, a reminder of the ancient forces that shaped this region. The Miradouro is part of a route of viewpoints, developed by the Municipality of Covilhã, with the aim of promoting the natural heritage of the region.


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

After soaking in the views, we drove to Manteigas, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Serra da Estrela. Our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to Restaurante Alta Clube for lunch. We savored traditional Portuguese dishes, hearty and flavorful, perfect for refueling after our morning adventures. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. I opted for a mountain stew, rich with local meats and vegetables, while Maximilian chose a cod dish, a staple of Portuguese cuisine. Astrid, predictably, went for the simplest option – grilled chicken with potatoes – but she ate with gusto, clearly enjoying the flavors.


Experience exquisite Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Alta Clube in Cortes do Meio - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

With renewed energy, we made our way to Fonte de Santo António da Argenteira. This serene spot offered a moment of quiet reflection. The fountain itself is simple, but the surrounding landscape is stunning. The air was filled with the sound of trickling water and the gentle rustling of leaves. I took a moment to simply breathe, to absorb the peace of the place. Astrid, always drawn to water, splashed her hands in the fountain, giggling with delight. Maximilian and I enjoyed the tranquility, a welcome contrast to the busier tourist spots.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Fonte de Santo António da Argenteira, a tranquil gem in Manteigas, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Before dinner, we stopped by Boutique Presunto 2. I wanted to pick up some local delicacies to take back to Bamberg. The shop was filled with the aroma of cured meats and cheeses. We sampled various presuntos, each with its own unique flavor profile. I ended up buying a selection of cheeses, sausages, and, of course, a generous slab of presunto. I can already imagine enjoying it with a glass of Franconian wine back home, reminiscing about our adventures in Serra da Estrela.


Discover the essence of Portuguese flavors at Boutique Presunto 2, a charming store in Loriga specializing in local delicacies and artisanal products.

For dinner, we chose Cantinho da Serra, a restaurant known for its traditional Serra cuisine. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, perfect for a family meal. We feasted on local specialties, including arroz de carqueija (heather rice) and roasted lamb. The flavors were rich and authentic, a true taste of the region. Astrid surprised us by trying the arroz de carqueija and actually liking it. It’s moments like these that make traveling with family so rewarding – exposing Astrid to new experiences and watching her grow and learn.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Cantinho da Serra in Loriga - where flavor meets stunning mountain views.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures. Serra da Estrela had revealed its hidden gems, offering us a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and moments of quiet reflection. It was a day that nourished our souls and strengthened our bonds as a family.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Miradouro Nave de Santo Antonio, Poço do Inferno, and the historic center of Manteigas. I’m particularly excited about Poço do Inferno, which I’ve heard is a stunning waterfall. We might even stop by Cafe Brito for a drink. Until then, I bid you goodnight from the heart of Portugal, where the stars shine bright and the mountains whisper tales of ancient times.