Rural Tourism in Serra da Estrela

Serra da Estrela is in the central region of Portugal. It is one of the highest points in the country, at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters above sea level. One of the strengths of this region is rural tourism in Serra da Estrela.

Rural Tourism in Serra da Estrela

For those who like to enjoy the wonders of nature, this is the perfect place. It is located between the districts of Guarda and Castelo Branco, close to Viseu and Coimbra, around 300 km from Lisboa.

Rural tourism in Serra da Estrela is very evident. Note the large quantity and variety of accommodation aimed at rural tourism and for those who want to relax and get in touch with nature.

Many seek refuge in the local nature while others seek active tourism activities. The region offers a multitude of options, especially in winter. Serra da Estrela offers many options at all times of the year, but in particular, winter in Serra da Estrela has a very special charm.

Winter in Serra da Estrela

The mountain is famous for its winter season, as snow tends to come in large quantities. Most tourists go to the region to practice snowboarding and skiing in the mountains.

Serra da Estrela even houses a Ski Resort, the only one in Portugal, reaching temperatures of up to -20°C in winter. But remember that the winter season is not the only good time of year to enjoy the place.

When to visit Serra da Estrela?

Before going, it is important to know that the winter there is very harsh, and even outside of that season the winds are very strong. It is important to take into account the types of clothing and footwear, always prepared for the cold.

You can visit Serra da Estrela at any time of the year, allowing you to enjoy different landscapes in different climates. The first quarter of the year is the coldest and snowiest time.

From May to October is when the weather is milder, when it is possible to enjoy the days for hiking and camping. Furthermore, enjoy the river beaches and lakes that form there.

How to get to Serra da Estrela?

For those who prefer more freedom to go to Serra da Estrela, the ideal is to rent a car to make the journey.

Leaving the capital Lisbon, the journey takes around 3 and a half hours. However, if it is in the winter season, it is extremely important to take maximum care on the roads, due to the snow.

There is also the option of going by bus, with greater safety, departing from Lisbon. The approximate cost is 30 euros.

Where to stay to enjoy rural tourism in Serra da Estrela?

With a good tourist infrastructure, Serra da Estrela has several accommodation options according to the tourist’s preference. It is interesting to mention some that are more aimed at rural tourism and for those who want to relax and get in touch with nature.

The best rural accommodation options in Serra da Estrela are:

• Quinta da Florência: is located in Seixo da Beira, close to Serra da Estrela. It has more than 400 years of history and is surrounded by hills with incredible views.
• Pousada de Belmonte: located in Belmonte, in the Castelo Branco district. It has a privileged view of Serra da Estrela. It offers guests horse riding, fishing and hiking.
• Solar dos Ceveiras: a rural accommodation located in Mesquitela, within the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. It also has an incredible natural landscape and lots of contact with nature.
• It is worth checking out other options in the villages of Manteigas and Piódão, the latter already on the edge of Serra do Açor: visit also Serra do Açor region.

Glamping at Serra da Estrela

In addition to taking advantage of rural tourism through the hotels, inns and rural houses in the region, it is also possible to enjoy a more luxurious option. The proposal is known as Glamping, a term that comes from the combination of the words “glamorous” and “camping” in English.

This modality proposal offers more comfort and luxury in a camping environment. The structures have several refinements, and provide a luxurious accommodation experience, but with the rustic tone of camping.

We list some of the Glamping options in Serra da Estrela:

• Natura Glamping: It is in Gardunha with views of the mountains. It is possible to enjoy the green spaces and have complete comfort in the room.
• Senses Glamping: located in Guarda, also overlooking the mountains. It has contact with local fauna and flora and comfortable and relaxing spaces.

What to do in Serra da Estrela?

Some activities are very popular there, such as hiking. As it is a place with forests, mountains, rivers and lakes, the options are diverse and the best time to go on these trails is during spring and summer. It can be done on foot or by bike and is great for getting closer to local nature.

Some of the best trails in Serra da Estrela are the following:

• Sol route
• Javali route
• Vale do Alva Trail
• Quinta da Serra Trail
• Glaciar route

In addition to rural tourism in Serra da Estrela, the region is a great place for those who want to practice outdoor activities. It is a place that promotes contact with nature and the history of Portugal.

There it is possible to discover different and distinct landscapes throughout the seasons and relax in the midst of nature.