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

Serra da Estrela's Natural Wonders

Today was an absolute dream! Liam and I ventured deeper into Serra da Estrela, and the landscapes we encountered were simply breathtaking. It's days like these that remind me why I love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. The air is crisp, the scenery is stunning, and the sense of adventure is invigorating.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cantinho da Serra. I opted for a traditional Portuguese pastry and a strong coffee to fuel up for our hike. The restaurant had a cozy, family-run feel, and the aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air. It was the perfect start to a day of exploring. Though some reviews mention mixed experiences, we found it charming and authentic. It reminded me of the small family-owned restaurants back in Konstanz. It's funny how a simple pastry can bring back so many memories.


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

Our first stop was the famed Covão dos Conchos. After hearing so much about this mysterious hole in the lake, I was eager to see it with my own eyes. The hike to get there was moderately challenging, about 10km, but the views along the way were worth every step. The trail wound through a landscape dotted with lagoons and ponds, reflecting the sky like scattered mirrors. The weather in Serra da Estrela in May is generally mild, with highs around 22°C (72°F) and lows around 9°C (49°F). Today was no exception. The sun was shining, and a gentle breeze kept us cool as we hiked.

And then, we arrived. The Covão dos Conchos is truly a sight to behold—a man-made spillway that looks like something out of a science fiction film. The water dramatically disappears into the depths, creating a surreal and captivating scene. It was built in 1955 to divert water from Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida. I couldn't help but marvel at the ingenuity and the way nature has embraced this structure. We spent a good hour taking photos and simply absorbing the unique beauty of the place. The walk from the parking to Covão dos Conchos is around 4.2km. It's a unique blend of human engineering and natural beauty.


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

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

Next on our itinerary was the Miradouro, Vale de Loriga. The drive to the viewpoint was scenic, with winding roads offering glimpses of the valley below. When we arrived, the panoramic views were simply stunning. The Vale de Loriga stretched out before us, a tapestry of green fields and rolling hills. We could see the village of Loriga nestled in the valley, its white houses gleaming in the sunlight. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sound was the gentle breeze. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me as I gazed at the landscape. It was the perfect spot to reflect on our journey and appreciate the beauty of Serra da Estrela.

The Miradouro, Vale de Loriga, is a tranquil haven in Serra da Estrela, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. The viewpoint offers sweeping panoramic views of the lush valleys and towering peaks that define the region. It's easily accessible, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the Serra da Estrela Natural Park.


Experience the breathtaking views at Miradouro, Vale de Loriga, a tranquil haven in Serra da Estrela, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Our final planned attraction for the day was Cântaro Magro. However, after the moderately challenging hike to Covão dos Conchos, we decided to admire Cântaro Magro from a distance. Cântaro Magro is a majestic rock formation, and the hike to the summit is known to be difficult. Some even find that you need to climb a small wall to access the summit. Given that we still had a dinner reservation in Covilhã, we opted for a more relaxed pace. Instead, we spent some time exploring the surrounding area, discovering hidden trails and enjoying the serenity of the mountains. I made a mental note to attempt the Cântaro Magro hike on a future trip when we're better prepared for a challenging climb.


Explore Cântaro Magro: A breathtaking natural wonder in Manteigas, Portugal, perfect for hiking and immersing in stunning mountain landscapes.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by Recados da Montanha, a local shop in Unhais da Serra. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remind us of our trip. The shop was filled with artisanal products, from local cheeses and sausages to handcrafted wool items. I bought a small bottle of aguardente de zimbro com mel (juniper brandy with honey) and a piece of Serra da Estrela cheese. Liam picked up a traditional wool hat to keep him warm on future hikes. Supporting local businesses is important to me, and it felt good to contribute to the local economy.


Explore Recados da Montanha: A Unique Store in Serra da Estrela Nature Park Offering Artisanal Souvenirs and Local Delicacies.

For dinner, we had a reservation at Restaurante Alta Clube in Covilhã. The restaurant is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and cozy atmosphere. After a long day of hiking, we were both ravenous. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by a hearty stew of beans and sausage. The food was delicious and comforting, and the service was friendly and attentive. While some reviews mention inconsistencies, we had a positive experience. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring the natural wonders of Serra da Estrela.


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

After dinner, we decided to check out Bar Holy Hour in Covilhã. We enjoyed a couple of local beers and soaked in the lively atmosphere. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The bar was filled with locals, and we felt like we were getting a glimpse into the authentic culture of the region. I even tried out a few Gaelic phrases I'd been learning, much to Liam's amusement and the locals' surprise.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Covilhã at Bar Holy Hour, where locals gather for drinks and unforgettable memories.

As I sit here writing this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's itinerary. We'll be heading to Torre, the highest point in Serra da Estrela, and exploring the Miradouro dos Piornos and Fonte de Santo António da Argenteira in Manteigas. We also plan to visit Mercearia da Estrela and Folhas Soltas. I'm excited to see more of this beautiful region and discover new hidden gems. I am sure Liam is excited too. I should probably let him get some sleep now!

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Torre (Serra da Estrela), Miradouro dos Piornos, Manteigas, and Fonte de Santo António da Argenteira, Manteigas. We'll have breakfast at Luna Hotel Serra da Estrela, lunch at As Lezírias, and dinner at Monte Estrela. We're also planning to shop at Mercearia da Estrela and visit Folhas Soltas.

Good night from Serra da Estrela!