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

Embracing the Serra: A Day of Discovery

Our adventure in Serra da Estrela Nature Park has officially begun, and what a start it has been! Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of this region, from breathtaking viewpoints to the soothing sounds of cascading water. It’s amazing how quickly you can feel connected to a place when you open yourself up to its wonders. I'm so excited to share our first day's journey with you all.

The drive from Lisbon was smooth, and as we approached Serra da Estrela, the landscape transformed into a stunning panorama of rolling hills and verdant valleys. Liam, ever the navigator, expertly guided us, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement bubbling within me. It’s always a thrill to explore a new place, especially one as renowned for its natural beauty as Serra da Estrela.

Our first stop was the Serra da Estrela Nature Park. As we stepped out of the car, the crisp mountain air filled our lungs, a welcome change from the city. The park is expansive, offering numerous trails and viewpoints. We decided to start with a leisurely hike, eager to soak in the scenery. The trails were well-maintained, and we passed several other hikers, all equally captivated by the surroundings. It’s heartening to see so many people appreciating and respecting nature.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Serra da Estrela Nature Park, Portugal's highest mountain range, perfect for adventure and nature lovers.

The views were simply incredible. From the higher elevations, we could see the entire valley stretched out before us, a patchwork of green fields and quaint villages. The weather was kind to us, with clear skies and a gentle breeze. According to the forecast, we can expect similar conditions for the next couple of days, which is a relief, especially considering how prone I am to sunburns!

Next on our list was Poço do Inferno, and it certainly lived up to its intriguing name. The hike down to the waterfall was a bit steep, but the sound of rushing water spurred us on. As we reached the bottom, we were greeted by a stunning sight: a cascading waterfall plunging into a small pool below. The water was crystal clear, and the surrounding rocks were covered in moss and ferns, creating a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Poço do Inferno, a breathtaking waterfall nestled in the heart of Serra da Estrela, Portugal's stunning natural park.

Sometimes, the most beautiful experiences are the ones that require a little effort to reach.

I couldn't resist dipping my fingers into the icy water – a refreshing jolt that made me feel truly alive. Liam, ever the photographer, snapped some amazing shots of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. It's moments like these that remind me why we love to travel – the chance to witness nature's raw beauty and create lasting memories together.

After Poço do Inferno, we made our way to Miradouro do Covão, which offered a completely different perspective of the Serra. This viewpoint features a suspended platform that extends out over the valley, giving you the sensation of floating above the landscape. It was a bit nerve-wracking at first, but the panoramic views were well worth it. We could see for miles in every direction, the vastness of the Serra stretching out before us.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Miradouro do Covão, a must-visit viewpoint in Portugal perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

I couldn't help but think about my family back in Konstanz, Germany, and how much they would have loved this view. I made a mental note to convince them to visit sometime soon – Serra da Estrela is a place that deserves to be shared with loved ones. I know my father would especially appreciate the landscape, as he is an avid hiker himself.

As the day wore on, our stomachs began to rumble, reminding us that it was time to sample some of the local cuisine. For breakfast, we stopped at Puro, a charming spot known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food. We enjoyed a hearty breakfast of local pastries and strong coffee, fueling up for our day of exploration. The staff were incredibly friendly, and we even chatted with the chef, who shared some tips on the best local ingredients to try.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Portugal at Puro in Cortes do Meio - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

Lunch was at Varanda da Estrela, a restaurant recommended by several locals. The restaurant is rustic and inviting, with stunning views of the Serra. We ordered some traditional dishes, including Serra cheese and roasted lamb, all washed down with local wine. The flavors were rich and satisfying, a true taste of Portugal.


Discover culinary delights at Varanda da Estrela, where breathtaking views meet authentic Portuguese flavors in Penhas da Saúde.

In the late afternoon, we took some time to visit Essências da Serra, a local shop showcasing regional products. I was immediately drawn to the displays of local cheeses, cured meats, and honey. We sampled a few different varieties of cheese, each with its unique flavor profile. I ended up buying a small wheel of Serra cheese to take back home – a perfect souvenir for my cheese-loving friends.


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

We also picked up some local honey, known for its unique flavor derived from the mountain flora. The shop owner told us about the traditional methods used to harvest the honey, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and respect for the environment. It's inspiring to see local businesses embracing eco-friendly practices, aligning perfectly with my own values.

For dinner, we decided to try O Chalet, a restaurant known for its mountain cuisine and cozy ambiance. We indulged in a hearty meal of local sausages and grilled vegetables, savoring every bite. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Serra da Estrela.


Discover the flavors of Portugal at O Chalet, where traditional recipes meet modern culinary artistry in the heart of Covilhã.

After dinner, we decided to unwind at Mellow Bar, Wine & Blues. The bar had a laid-back atmosphere, with soft lighting and live music. We ordered a couple of glasses of local wine and listened to the blues band, reflecting on our amazing day. The music was soothing, and the wine was delicious – a perfect combination for a relaxing evening.


Discover the charm of Mellow Bar, Wine & Blues in Teixoso, where live music and fine wines create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Serra da Estrela has already captured my heart with its natural beauty, delicious food, and friendly people. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to visit Covão dos Conchos, Miradouro, Vale de Loriga, and Cântaro Magro. I’ve heard so much about Covão dos Conchos and its intriguing “hole” in the lake; I am eager to see it for myself!

Tomorrow promises more exploration and adventure, and I can’t wait to share it all with you. Goodnight from Serra da Estrela!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention that I forgot my sunglasses at home! Lesson learned: always double-check your packing list, even if you think you have everything covered!

Also, Liam mentioned a cycling event that is happening in Serra da Estrela next month. Perhaps we should come back and participate.

We also saw a hotel that we might want to stay at when we come back, Vila Galé Serra da Estrela.