Exploring the Peaks of Serra da Estrela: An Eco-Friendly Adventure

A Day of Panoramic Wonders

Today was all about soaking in the vast beauty of Serra da Estrela. Liam and I set out to discover viewpoints that would leave us breathless and landscapes that would etch themselves into our memories. It was a day of winding roads, crisp mountain air, and moments of pure awe. We were ready to embrace the wanderlust and find some hidden gems along the way.

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at Churrasqueira Serrana in Loriga. Fuelled up with local pastries and strong coffee, we hit the road towards Miradouro Santa Catarina. It was a beautiful drive, the sun shining just enough to make the views sparkle. When we arrived at the viewpoint, I was instantly captivated. The panoramic vista stretched out before us, a patchwork of green valleys and distant peaks. Liam, ever the photographer, was in his element, snapping away at the scenery. I just stood there, breathing it all in, feeling grateful for moments like these.


Discover stunning views of Lisbon's skyline and the Tagus River at Miradouro Santa Catarina, a tranquil viewpoint perfect for relaxation and photography.

Next on our list was Miradouro Serra do Açor. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads that climbed higher and higher into the mountains. The landscape transformed as we ascended, the trees becoming sparser, the air cooler. When we finally reached the viewpoint, the view was, again, spectacular. From this vantage point, we could see the Serra do Açor mountain range stretching out before us, a rugged and wild landscape that felt untouched by time. I could almost imagine eagles soaring overhead, surveying their domain.


Discover the breathtaking vistas of Miradouro Serra do Açor, a must-visit viewpoint in Loriga, Portugal, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

The best views come after the hardest climbs.

By lunchtime, we were ready for a break. We found a charming little spot called Bar da Prainha (Nova Gerência) and enjoyed a simple but delicious meal. Refreshed, we continued our journey to Lagoa Serrano. This glacial lagoon, nestled high in the mountains, was a sight to behold. The water was crystal clear, reflecting the sky above, and the surrounding landscape was a tapestry of greens and browns. Despite being artificialized by a construction of a dike, the area is rich in natural habitats. We took a leisurely stroll around the lagoon, enjoying the peace and quiet, feeling miles away from the hustle and bustle of Dublin.


Explore the serene beauty of Lagoa Serrano in Loriga, a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility in Portugal.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at A Loja do Brás. I was on the hunt for some local crafts, maybe a piece of pottery or a hand-knitted scarf. The shop was a treasure trove of artisanal goods, and I ended up buying a beautiful ceramic bowl, a perfect reminder of our trip to Serra da Estrela. Liam found a lovely cork wallet, always thinking about sustainable options.


Explore A Loja do Brás, a vibrant supermarket in the heart of Portugal, offering a wide array of local products and fresh ingredients for every taste.

Before dinner, we stopped by Vida Santa, a local bar, for a pre-dinner drink. It was a cozy little place, filled with locals chatting and laughing. We ordered a couple of glasses of local wine and soaked in the atmosphere, feeling like we were truly experiencing the heart of Serra da Estrela. I tried to practice my limited Gaelic with Liam, but the Portuguese wine was so good that we ended up speaking a mix of all three languages!


Explore the lively nightlife at Vida Santa, Covilhã's favorite bar, offering a delightful blend of local culture and vibrant social experience.

For dinner, we had made a reservation at Quinta do Sangrinhal. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The setting was idyllic, a rustic farmhouse surrounded by rolling hills. The food was exceptional, traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist. We savored every bite, accompanied by a bottle of local red wine. The staff was really kind, and the place was very welcoming.


Experience the essence of Portuguese cuisine at Quinta do Sangrinhal in Covilhã—where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views.

As we enjoyed our meal, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow, our last day in Serra da Estrela. We’re planning to visit Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela, Lagoa das Salgadeiras and Miradouro de Cabeço de Alfatema. Afterwards, we will have a breakfast at Restaurante Steakhouse Alfátima, lunch at Taberna Solar do Monte and a final dinner at Restaurante Miralva. We also plan to go to Essências da Serra and 8Avos Bar before leaving this beautiful place.

Thinking about sustainability, I was glad to have packed my eco-friendly sunscreen and reusable water bottle. However, I still regret not bringing my sunglasses! It is always something, isn’t it?

Back at our eco-friendly lodging, I reflected on the day. Serra da Estrela had truly captured my heart. The breathtaking views, the charming villages, and the warm hospitality of the locals had made this a trip to remember. I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring, as we bid farewell to this magical mountain range. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, why I love to explore, and why I love to share my experiences with all of you.

I am also thrilled about a trail running event called OMD Ultra Trail® Serra da Estrela that will be held in June. It will be a great opportunity to see the beautiful landscapes of Serra da Estrela while pushing the body to its limits.

Tomorrow, we leave Serra da Estrela, but I will bring amazing memories back to Dublin. I am sure I will miss the fresh air, the landscapes and the amazing food!