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

Saying Goodbye to Serra da Estrela

As our final day in Serra da Estrela unfolded, I felt a bittersweet mix of emotions. This trip with Liam has been nothing short of magical, filled with stunning landscapes, unexpected adventures, and a deeper connection to each other and to nature. Today was all about soaking in the last moments of this beautiful mountain range, creating memories that we'll cherish long after we've returned to our busy lives in Dublin.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Steakhouse Alfátima. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our final explorations. I opted for a simple but satisfying toast with local honey, while Liam went for a more substantial plate of scrambled eggs and Serra cheese. Fuelled up and ready to go, we set off to explore the spiritual side of Serra da Estrela.

Our first stop was Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela, a striking sculpture carved into the rock face. The story behind it, how a local priest named António Duarte envisioned and created this sanctuary for the shepherds, was truly inspiring. Standing before the seven-meter-tall statue, I felt a sense of peace and reverence. The views from there were simply breathtaking, and I couldn't help but snap a few photos to capture the moment. Liam, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the engineering feat of carving such a large sculpture into the mountainside, but even he had to admit the location was special.


Explore the breathtaking Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela, a stunning sculpture in Serra da Estrela Nature Park that blends art and nature beautifully.

It is not the destination that matters, but the journey.

Next on our itinerary was Lagoa das Salgadeiras, a serene lake known for its unique rock formations shaped by glacial activity. As we approached, the landscape opened up before us, revealing a vista of crystal-clear water reflecting the sky above. The peace and quiet were palpable, broken only by the occasional bird call. We strolled along the banks, marveling at the sculpted rocks and the way the light played on the water. I made a mental note to try one of the hiking trails around the lagoons on our next visit. Liam, ever the adventurous one, even dipped his toes in the chilly water, much to my amusement.


Experience the serene beauty of Lagoa das Salgadeiras, a tranquil nature preserve in Loriga, Portugal, perfect for hiking, relaxation, and photography.

Our final stop of the day was Miradouro de Cabeço de Alfatema, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Serra da Estrela. The drive up was an adventure in itself, with winding roads and hairpin turns that tested Liam's driving skills. But the view from the top was more than worth it. From our vantage point, we could see for miles in every direction, the landscape unfolding like a tapestry of green valleys and rocky peaks. I felt a sense of accomplishment, knowing that we had explored so much of this beautiful region in just eight days. Liam pointed out various landmarks, sharing interesting facts about the local geography and history.


Experience the stunning beauty of Portugal at Miradouro de Cabeço de Alfatema, a breathtaking viewpoint perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Essências da Serra, a charming little shop in Covilhã that Gonçalo Saraiva established, showcasing local products. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remind us of our trip and to share with family back in Dublin. The shop was filled with the aroma of local herbs, cheeses, and cured meats. I couldn't resist buying a small jar of Serra honey and a piece of Queijo da Serra, the region's famous cheese. Liam, meanwhile, stocked up on local sausages and a bottle of Aguardente de Mel, a traditional honey brandy.


Explore Covilhã's vibrant Essências da Serra market for fresh produce and authentic Portuguese flavors in a lively local atmosphere.

With our shopping done, we headed to Taberna Solar do Monte for lunch. This cozy tavern, located in the Mercado Serrano, was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some traditional Portuguese cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with rustic décor and friendly staff. We ordered a selection of tapas, including olives, bread, and local cheese, and a hearty stew that warmed us from the inside out. As we ate, we chatted with the owner, who shared stories about the region's history and culture. It felt like we were dining with family, a truly authentic experience.


Discover the heart of Portuguese gastronomy at Taberna Solar do Monte in Covilhã - where tradition meets flavor.

In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of local nightlife at 8Avos Bar. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists mingling and enjoying the evening. Liam ordered a local craft beer, while I opted for a glass of vinho verde, a refreshing green wine from the region. As we sipped our drinks, we listened to live music and watched the world go by. It was the perfect way to end our final day in Serra da Estrela.


Discover the lively 8Avos Bar in Covilhã, where delicious drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await you in this charming Portuguese city.

For dinner, we had made a reservation at Restaurante Miralva, known for its traditional Serra cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm fireplace and rustic décor. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by the main course of roasted lamb with potatoes and vegetables. The food was hearty and delicious, a perfect reflection of the region's culinary heritage.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante Miralva in Sabugueiro - where every meal tells a story.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on our incredible journey through Serra da Estrela. From the breathtaking landscapes to the charming local encounters, this trip had exceeded all our expectations. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique and beautiful part of Portugal, and for the memories we had created together. Liam, ever the romantic, raised his glass in a toast to our adventure, promising to return to Serra da Estrela someday soon.

Tomorrow, we will be heading back to Lisbon, ready to catch our flight back to Dublin. While I'm looking forward to returning to our cozy home and familiar routines, I know that a part of me will always remain in Serra da Estrela, among its stunning peaks and welcoming people. This trip has reminded me of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the beauty of nature, and connecting with the local culture. It's a lesson I hope to carry with me long after we've left this magical place.

As I packed our bags, I couldn't help but smile, thinking about all the wonderful memories we had made. Serra da Estrela, you have captured our hearts, and we will never forget you.