Serra da Estrela Walking Tour

Your tour begins in the medieval town of Celorico da Beira in Central Portugal’s Guarda District. The historic town surrounded by staggering medieval walls is home to a spectacular gothic castle and stunning Baroque-style churches.

If your arrival time permits, spend some time exploring this ancient town and soaking up its sights, sounds, and flavours!

Your walking tour begins today with a scenic jaunt through an open area leading you to the top of the Serra do Ralo, where a sprawling windfarm home to sixteen turbines unfolds. Sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape envelop you as you descend through dense pine and oak forest and sweeping pastures to the beautiful medieval village of Linhares.

While meandering the picturesque town, be sure to visit Linhares Castle, the Roman Forum, and the Royal Houses!

Today’s walk is equal in challenge and reward! Following breakfast, a short taxi transfer will take you to the beginning of the route in Folgosinho.

Traversing a spectacularly remote area, you’ll embark on a series of ascents and descents along an old Roman road through a scenic valley. From the route's highest point at Portella do Folgosinho, you’ll find sensational views of the Pico de La Torre.

The route proceeds through further valleys and forests and ends with a steep descent in the village of Manteigas, found in a beautiful glacier valley nestled beneath towering peaks.

There are two route options to choose from today.

Option 1: Enjoy a low-key day, visiting a local trout farm and enjoying the pretty village of Manteigas at your leisure.

Option 2: Visit the thundering waterfall of Poço do Inferno (1290m, 4232 ft), enjoying a scenic walk through the Buraco Valley.

Today your route takes you north of Manteigas on a historic trail under the shade of fragrant pine forest as you make your way to Pousada de São Lorenço, where you’ll be met with stunning views of the Manteigas Valley.

The rest of the route unfolds amidst colourful farmland before a final descent leads you back to Manteigas.

There are two route options to choose from today.

Option 1:

Explore the dazzling glacial valley of Zézere as you make your way to La Torre, walking among scenic mountains, meadows, and forest.

Option 2:

A short transfer will take you to La Torre Recreation Area, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the granite massif of Serra da Estrela and the prehistoric glacial valleys. The route unfolds on narrow lanes, traversing lofty pastures, stark peaks, and sparkling lakes, eventually leading you to the village of Loriga.

Your final day of walking will take you inland on a spectacular route through enchanting woods, passing several lovely villages along the way and the exciting sites of Más Tumba and Cabeça da Velha.

Reaching tonight’s overnight location in the pleasant village of São Romão, you’ll make yourself at home in the beautifully renovated “quinta” (country house) located just outside the village.

This morning your walking tour comes to an end. Check out of your accommodations and head to the airport to depart.