2 Days Tour To Heart Of Serra Da Estrela From Lisbon

Exploring the captivating Serra da Estrela mountain range is a must for any traveler visiting Lisbon. This 2-day tour offers a chance to discover charming towns, historic sites, and stunning natural landscapes. From the medieval castle in Alvares Cabral to the highest point, Torre, in the region, the tour immerses visitors in the local culture and natural wonders. With a delightful lunch in Covilhã and visits to quaint villages, this itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activities or cultural exploration, this tour to the heart of the Serra da Estrela provides an opportunity to…

Key Points

Explore the charming towns of Covilhã, Alvares Cabral, and Manteigas nestled within the Serra da Estrela mountain range over a 2-day tour from Lisbon.
Visit the historic medieval castle, Jewish heritage site, and enjoy local cuisine with panoramic mountain views in the towns along the tour.
Ascend to the highest point of Serra da Estrela, Torre, and discover the region’s natural wonders, including alpine lakes and traditional villages.
Witness the diverse cultural heritage, local traditions, and wildlife of the Serra da Estrela through guided commentary and immersive experiences.
Enjoy a well-rounded tour showcasing the highlights of the Serra da Estrela region, including its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local communities.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour from Lisbon takes travelers to the stunning Serra da Estrela mountain range, where they’ll discover the charming town of Covilhã, the historic Alvares Cabral village, and the picturesque Manteigas town nestled in the Glacier Valley.

On the first day, travelers will enjoy lunch with mountain views in Covilhã before visiting the medieval castle and Jewish heritage site in Alvares Cabral. They’ll then drive through Manteigas and dine and stay overnight in the town.

The second day features a climb to the highest point, Torre, followed by stops at the picturesque Lagoa Comprida and the quaint Sabugueiro and Folgosinho villages, before returning to Lisbon in the evening.

Day 1 Itinerary

The tour departs Lisbon at 8am, heading to the first stop in Covilhã. Here, the group will visit the historic town and have lunch at a restaurant with stunning mountain views.

After lunch, the tour continues to Alvares Cabral village, where they’ll explore the medieval castle and the historic Jewish quarter.

From there, the group drives through the picturesque Manteigas and Glacier Valley before arriving at their accommodation and dinner in Manteigas for the night.

Throughout the day, the guide provides insightful commentary on the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders, ensuring the travelers have a comprehensive understanding of this captivating area.

Visit to Covilhã

After departing Lisbon at 8 am, the tour group first arrives in the historic town of Covilhã, nestled within the Serra da Estrela mountain range.

Perched at an elevation of over 3,000 feet, Covilhã is known for its stunning mountain vistas. The group takes time to explore the town, wandering through its charming streets lined with traditional Portuguese architecture.

They visit the local market, browsing stalls brimming with fresh produce and artisanal goods. Afterward, they enjoy a delightful lunch at a restaurant boasting panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Fully satisfied, the travelers depart Covilhã, eager to continue their journey into the heart of the Serra da Estrela.

Alvares Cabral Village

Next, the tour group makes its way to the picturesque village of Alvares Cabral, named after the famous Portuguese explorer. They explore the medieval castle, marveling at its well-preserved architecture that reflects the region’s rich history. The travelers also visit the historic House of the Jews, learning about the cultural diversity that has shaped this charming community over the centuries.

Highlights of Alvares Cabral Village
Medieval Castle	Historic House of the Jews	Cultural Diversity
Explore the well-preserved architecture	Learn about the Jewish heritage	Discover the community’s history
Understand the region’s rich history	Appreciate the cultural significance	Immerse in the village’s charm

Drive to Manteigas

From Alvares Cabral village, the tour group drives through the breathtaking Manteigas and Glacier Valley, taking in the stunning mountain scenery along the way.

The drive offers:

Panoramic views of the Serra da Estrela’s rugged peaks and pristine valleys.
A chance to spot local wildlife like chamois, eagles, and alpine flowers.
Opportunities to stop and explore charming mountain villages nestled among the peaks.

After the scenic drive, the group enjoys a delicious dinner and settles in for the night in the picturesque town of Manteigas, ready to tackle the next day’s adventures.

Day 2 Itinerary

On the second day, the tour group begins their ascent to the Torre, the highest point of the Serra da Estrela mountain range. At 1,993 meters, the Torre offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and glacial lakes.

After this exhilarating climb, the group stops at Lagoa Comprida, a serene alpine lake. The tour then continues to Sabugueiro, where they can sample local delicacies.

Next, they visit Folgosinho for another regional meal before exploring the medieval castle in Linhares da Beira.

As the day draws to a close, the group heads back to Lisbon, their hearts filled with the beauty and history of the Serra da Estrela region.

Climb to Torre

After the group descends from the Glacier Valley, they begin their ascent to the Torre, the highest point of the Serra da Estrela mountain range at 1,993 meters.

The climb is challenging but rewarding, with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

As they make their way up, the group will:

Admire the rugged, snow-capped landscape that becomes more dramatic with each step.
Stop for frequent breaks to catch their breath and take in the stunning vistas.
Feel a sense of accomplishment when they reach the summit and stand atop the highest point in mainland Portugal.

The descent can be just as exhilarating, with the opportunity to appreciate the mountain’s natural beauty from a different perspective.

Visit to Surrounding Towns

After climbing to the Torre, the group descends to explore the surrounding towns and villages of the Serra da Estrela region.

They first stop in Sabugueiro, a charming village known for its local delicacies and traditional way of life.

The tour then continues to Folgosinho, where the group enjoys another meal featuring regional specialties.

Next, they visit the medieval castle in Linhares da Beira, a town that retains its historic charm.

Throughout the day, the travelers are immersed in the local culture, sampling the unique flavors and witnessing the traditional way of life in these picturesque mountain communities.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, showcasing the highlights of the Serra da Estrela beyond just the highest peak.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Total Distance Covered During the 2-Day Tour?

The total distance covered during the 2-day tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour visits several locations within the Serra da Estrela mountain range, which suggests a significant distance is traveled between the different stops.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional stops. The tour operator is flexible and open to modifying the itinerary to accommodate the traveler’s interests and preferences, subject to time and logistical constraints.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The average group size for this 2-day tour from Lisbon to the Serra da Estrela mountain range is typically small, with personalized attention from the driver/guide. Group sizes can vary but are generally kept intimate for a more enjoyable experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t advertise any discounts for senior citizens or students. However, it’s worth checking if they offer any special rates or deals when booking directly with them.

Can the Tour Be Extended to Include a Visit to a Local Winery?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include a visit to a local winery. Visitors can contact the tour operator to inquire about adding this option, which would allow them to experience the region’s renowned wines.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby