Tour Description
Groups accepted with a minimum of 6 pax.
Portugal is a country of astonishing beauty and amazing contrasts. Besides its famous coastline, the majority of its mountains and forests are relatively unknown and therefore offer huge rewards to the rambler in search of something special.
Manteigas Serra Estrela, If there’s one town in the Serra da Estrela with a true mountain air it’s MANTEIGAS, 700m up, whose whitewashed houses run along the contour above the Rio Zêzere.
Our new holiday is in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, the mountains of the stars, the highest mountain in mainland Portugal rising to 1993m. The Serra’s landscapes of pine forests, lakes, and glacial valleys all enjoy clean, crisp, mountain air. The Natural Park is also the source of the Mondego, Zêzere, and Alva rivers. Dramatic crags and ravines make this region stunningly beautiful and a pleasure to explore.
Sheep and goats play a traditional role in the manufacture of the famous Serra da Estrela cheese. Sausages and wine are also important to the local economy as are the smoked produce and embroidered cotton. Craftsman uses their skills in basket work using wicker and chestnut. The Serra da Estrela also has its own breed of mountain sheepdog.
Walking Serra da Estrela Nature Park, In the last decades of the twentieth century, and to a lesser extent more recently, life in the mountains changed almost beyond recognition.
The villages of the Serra da Estrela date back to medieval times and evidence of the Roman presence and Arab influence can be seen in the area. This is truly a rambler’s paradise not only for the amazing walking but also for the beauty that graces so much of this stimulating part of Portugal.
Our tour is centered in Manteigas, a picturesque town is in the very heart of a glacial valley. It will be our base for great walking amongst the beautiful scenery that nature has bestowed on the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. There are good paths which cover the park giving the opportunity to discover more of this stunning region.
If you like good walking and magnificent scenery, this new holiday is a perfect choice.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival at Lisbon Airport
Loriga
Day 2 – Penhas Douradas to Nave da Mestra
A glorious mountain walks from Penhas Douradas to Nave da Mestra, a historic refuge in the heart of the mountains, and returning to Penhas Douradas.
Sameiro
Day 3 – Rio Mondego
A walk to visit the valley of the Rio Mondego, Portugal’s longest river.
This high fertile valley is home to sheep from whose milk the famous Queijo da Serra is made.
In summer golden fields of rye line the river banks hiding isolated farms and tiny chapels.
Manteigas Serra Estrela
Day 4 – Day off
We recommend a visit to Guarda, 40 km distant (about 1 hour’s drive) and Portugal’s highest city.
The drive is incredibly spectacular enabling us to see more of these fantastic mountains.
Manteigas Serra Estrela
Day 5 – Manteigas Valley
A walk down the valley from Manteigas following the Rio Zêzere. At times following a ridge with dramatic views and then returning along the valley with an opportunity to visit the attractive village of Sameiro and enjoy a break in the local café.
For much of the way, a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees will shade our way.
Serra da Estrela – Walking in serra da Estrela
Day 6 – Torre
A walk up to Torre. This walk climbs the highest point on mainland Portugal.
Dramatic paths lead up to the summit giving spectacular views.
This walk is not too long and for those who wish for a fuller day there will be an optional walk to Varanda, surely one of the finest viewpoints in the entire mountain range.
Clients who do not wish to do the second part of this walk could be transported to Penhas da Saude to explore the area and use the cafés.
Valley Nave Mestra – Walking in serra da Estrela
Day 7 – Loriga valley
A walk that will start and finish at Torre. A beautiful walk, with great views, that makes the most of this dramatic, rocky landscape. We visit many of the small lakes that abound in this area and are able to appreciate the head of the spectacular Loriga valley.
Walking Serra da Estrela Nature Park
Day 8 – Departure
After breakfast transfer to the airport.
Insurance
You must be adequately insured to join our Guided tours walking and Self-Guided tours walking holidays. We do not insist that you insure with us but we require that you are adequately insured for the nature of your holiday.
BeCool Travel has partnered with WorldNomads.com to keep you traveling safely. WorldNomads.com Travel Insurance is designed for independent and adventurous travelers, with coverage for overseas medical expenses, cancellation, baggage, and other expenses.
Please consult our Travel Insurance page, where you’ll be able to get more detailed info about insurance requirements and an immediate quote for your trip.
