The mountains speckled white with snow are truly a sight to behold, however, there’s much to be said for this part of Portugal when spring comes around and the splendour of summer arrives.
Surrender yourself to this three-day itinerary, which explores the region in its many facets, from nature and gastronomy to urban art and the textile industry.
Day 1: Covilhã, from urban art to the history of textiles
Standing on the Pousada Serra da Estrela’s impressive balconies, we see the town of Covilhã nestling at the foot of the mountain, set in the landscape. This is where our tour begins. Visitors can drive down to the town or take the pousada’s shuttle bus, which runs all day, connecting the historic hotel in Serra da Estrela to Covilhã and other points of interest in the Serra (such as the Tower).
Amble around the historic centre and discover the many urban art murals that adorn the façades. Since 2011, these artistic interventions have been the product of the WOOL festival, lending Covilhã a new dynamic that reflects the town’s identity and history, transforming it into an open-air museum.
Another place worth seeing is New Hand Lab, which promotes and publicises the region’s resources and what’s happening locally. Next, it’s off to the Museu de Lanifícios (Wool Museum), which is housed in the town’s old textile factories. Those interested can follow the wool production process from start to finish, as well as see how important the industry has been to the region and learn how it has reinvented itself. On the way out, there’s a gift shop with a wide range of items made from burel, a special type of wool that only the sheep of Serra da Estrela can give us.
Back at Pousada da Serra da Estrela, enjoy dinner in the restaurant, which serves some of the region’s most traditional dishes. Recommendations include roast kid, juniper rice and pastel de molho (a pastry and broth combination).
Day 2: Seia, regionality and nature
Before enjoying the surrounding nature on day two, swing by the Museu do Pão (Bread Museum), which is popular with young and old alike. Follow the suggested route and learn about the history and process of breadmaking, an essential food in Portuguese culture. For enthusiasts, there’s a baking exercise, if you fancy it.
At lunch, start with cheese from Seia, which is served with bread, cold meats and good wines. Try the Seia-style, roast goatling, which is succulent inside and toasted on the outside.
Close to the town we find the Lapa dos Dinheiros river beach, one of the loveliest of its kind in the area. Located on the Caniça stream, the beach is surrounded by a mountainous, granite landscape. The water is cold, but so clear that many can’t resist taking a dip. Nearby, there are various hiking trails worth exploring, especially the Rota da Caniça. The circular route, which covers around seven kilometres, crosses Souto da Lapa, a forest of centuries-old chestnut trees, and passes by the Caniça waterfalls.
Back at Pousada Serra da Estrela, have a swim in the hotel’s outdoor pool, which is strategically facing southwest and offers a great view of the sunset.
Day 3: Manteigas, surprising mountain landscapes
The 21 kilometres that separate the Pousada Serra da Estrela and the small town of Manteigas are a delight: each landscape is more beautiful than the one before. First stop is the Glacier Valley of the River Zêzere, where the pedestrian route allows visitors to see the mountains’ biodiversity, with landscapes sculpted by glaciers. If you want to know more about this geological process, a visit to the Glacier Valley Interpretation Centre will offer a better understanding.
The hike up to Poço do Inferno, one of the region’s most iconic waterfalls, is rather intense but well worth the effort. Surrounded by greenery, it’s perfect for contemplation – or even a swim.
To recharge your batteries, get to the pousada in time to enjoy the indoor pool, sauna and Turkish bath (free for guests), as well as the exclusive spa treatments.
