From Covilhã: Torre Serra da Estrela / Manteigas e Belmonte

If you’re planning a day trip out of Covilhã into Portugal’s stunning Serra da Estrela region, this tour promises a well-rounded experience that covers breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and important historical sites. Designed for small private groups, it offers personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet comprehensive adventure.

Three aspects we really appreciate are the spectacular panoramic views from the Serra tower, the opportunity to taste regional cheeses and liqueurs, and the deep dive into local history in Belmonte. On the flip side, the tour’s dependence on weather conditions can sometimes mean cancellations or changes—something to keep in mind if your schedule is tight. This tour suits those who love nature, history, and regional flavors, especially if you’re after a private, guided experience that takes the hassle out of planning.

Good To Know

Stunning Views: The panoramic vistas from Serra da Estrela Tower are unforgettable.
Cultural Richness: Visit historic villages like Sabugueiro and Belmonte, with their unique stories and architecture.
Exclusive Guide: The small group setting and expert guide ensure personalized insights.
Tasty Experiences: Sample traditional Serra cheese and regional liqueurs—flavorful and authentic.
Flexible Itinerary: The tour adapts to weather, with options for different stops and experiences.
Travel Comfort: Pickup from Covilhã and private transportation streamline your day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Serra da Estrela Private Tour

This seven-hour journey from Covilhã is a thoughtfully curated exploration of Portugal’s highest mountain range, combining natural beauty with cultural and historical touches. Running with a dedicated guide and driver, the experience emphasizes comfort, personalized insights, and the chance to see some of the most iconic sights in the region.

Starting Point: Covilhã Pickup and Early Drive

The day begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Covilhã around 9:00 AM. From there, the journey kicks off with a scenic drive toward Serra da Estrela, setting the stage for what’s to come. The route takes you through charming scenery, with your guide sharing tidbits about the region’s history and geography—making the drive itself a pleasant part of the experience.

Stop at Varanda dos Carqueijas — Breath-Taking Views

The first official stop is at Varanda dos Carqueijas, a viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas over the Cova da Beira valley. This is a perfect spot for photos and taking in the landscape’s vastness. The description of the view as “stunning” is no exaggeration—on clear days, you’ll see mountain ridges stretching into the horizon, with lush greenery contrasting the rocky terrain.

Reviewers highlight that the guide’s local knowledge adds depth to this stop. Carolina from Brazil, for instance, said, “The guide is very attentive and knowledgeable—he pointed out details I wouldn’t have noticed on my own.” This makes the viewpoint more than just a pretty picture; it’s an educational moment as well.

Penhas da Saúde Village — A Mountain Retreat

Next, the tour visits Penhas da Saúde, a cozy mountain village that offers a glimpse into local life and architecture. Its quiet streets and fresh mountain air make it a peaceful break before heading to more dramatic scenery. Expect to see traditional stone houses and perhaps spot some local artisans selling crafts or regional products.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Piornos Viewpoint — Overlooking Unique Landmarks

The Piornos Viewpoint provides a dramatic overlook of notable landmarks such as the Santo Antônio, Covão do Ferro Dam, and Poio Judeu. Travelers find this stop especially photogenic, with a chance to capture the rugged beauty of the region. Expect about 15 minutes here to soak in the views and maybe snap some memorable photos.

Covão do Ametade and Lagoa Comprida — Nature at its Best

The journey continues with brief stops at Covão do Ametade and Lagoa Comprida, both of which showcase the region’s varied terrain. Covão do Ametade is a scenic area ideal for a quick walk and photos, while Lagoa Comprida’s serene waters reflect the surrounding mountains, perfect for a peaceful moment or a quick snapshot.

Serra da Estrela Tower — The Pinnacle of the Day

No visit would be complete without stopping at Serra da Estrela Tower itself, the highest point in Portugal at 1,993 meters. This spot offers spectacular panoramic views, and visitors can walk around the viewing platform, taking in the scenery from different angles. The guide often shares details about the tower’s significance and the weather conditions—since snow is common in winter, it’s an especially scenic spot when snow blankets the landscape.

From reviews, we learn that the tower is a highlight. One visitor noted, “It’s incredible to stand at the highest point in Portugal and see so much of the landscape spread out before you.” And the opportunity to taste regional products here—like Serra cheese—adds to this memorable experience.

Sampling Serra Region Flavors

The tour includes some time to sample regional cheeses and liqueurs in traditional shops. Travelers appreciate this authentic tasting, which offers a true flavor of Serra da Estrela. The renowned cheese, produced locally, is a highlight for many, and reviewers mention that guides often help explain the production process or share stories about the region’s culinary traditions.

Longo Maior and the Highest Village — A Step Back in Time

The visit to Longo Maior and Sabugueiro showcases the highest village in Portugal. These small settlements offer a peek into rural mountain life, with stone houses and narrow streets. The quiet ambiance and scenic vistas provide compelling photo opportunities, and some travelers enjoy walking around to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Manteigas and the Ecolã Experience

After a scenic drive through smaller villages, you arrive in Manteigas, a charming town set in a lush valley. It’s a good place for a quick walk or to enjoy a coffee break. The highlight here is the guided tour of Ecolã, a local ecological project or farm, lasting about an hour. You’ll learn about sustainable practices and get a taste of local products—adding a meaningful touch to the trip.

Belmonte — A Town of Historical Significance

The final major stop is Belmonte, a town almost as old as Portugal itself, famous for its castle, Jewish community, and as the birthplace of explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral. The external visit to the castle and the Church of Santiago provides historical context, along with the Pantheon of the Cabrais—a must-see for history buffs. One reviewer mentioned, “Belmonte’s history is fascinating, and the guide’s stories brought it all alive.”

Walking through the streets, you can appreciate the deep layers of local culture and history, culminating with a photo of Pedro Álvares Cabral’s statue. The town also offers a relaxed atmosphere to stroll, shop, or enjoy a coffee before heading back.

Returning to Covilhã

The day concludes with a comfortable drive back to Covilhã, typically arriving around 4 or 5 pm. The whole experience is well-paced, allowing sufficient time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, especially if you value personalized guidance and want a full day of exploring Serra da Estrela’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and logistics yourself. The tour’s small group setting ensures a comfortable, intimate experience, and the guide’s local knowledge enriches each stop.

The price of $305 for up to three people offers good value, considering the included tastings, guide services, and private transportation. Even with the additional cost of lunch and monument entries not included, the overall experience feels thoughtfully curated and worth the investment for lovers of scenery, history, and regional flavors.

The tour’s flexibility—subject to weather conditions—can be a minor inconvenience but also reflects a commitment to safety and quality. On clear days, you’ll leave with unforgettable views; on less cooperative days, the guide will happily reschedule or adapt.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip works best for small groups or couples who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and culinary delights. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights, want a personalized experience, and prefer to avoid the stress of self-driving in mountain terrain. If you’re curious about local history, love regional food, or want to see Portugal’s highest point with expert guidance, this tour will check all your boxes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? While the tour is designed for small groups and offers plenty of scenic stops, children comfortable with mountain drives and walking are fine. Keep in mind that some stops involve short walks and outdoor exposure.

What should I wear? Comfortable outdoor clothing is recommended, especially sturdy shoes for walking around viewpoints and villages. In winter, it can be quite cold and snowy, so bring layers.

Can I customize the itinerary? The tour is generally fixed but may be adapted slightly depending on weather conditions or group preferences, as per the guide’s discretion.

What is included in the price? The guide, Wi-Fi, water, and regional cheese and liqueur tastings are included. Lunch and monument entries are extra.

How reliable is the weather? Because the tour depends on good weather for the best views, it may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor. A full refund or alternative date will be offered if that happens.

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the tour uses private transport, ensuring a smooth, climate-controlled ride throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Covilhã to Serra da Estrela and Belmonte is a thoughtfully crafted experience that balances natural beauty with cultural richness. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, historical insights, and regional flavors—all in one day. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a personalized, stress-free exploration of Portugal’s highest mountains and their surrounding towns.

Whether you’re a landscape lover, history enthusiast, or culinary adventurer, this trip delivers a well-rounded snapshot of Serra da Estrela’s diverse appeal. Just remember to pack your camera, some warm layers, and an appetite for regional cheese and stories.

You can check if your dates are available here: