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Serra da Estrela Portugal: Snow, hikes and hidden gems
Most people don’t think of snow when they think of Portugal. Beaches? Absolutely. Mountains blanketed in white powder? Not so much. But that’s exactly what I found the first time I visited Serra da Estrela in winter! And it’s what has kept us coming back ever since.
As a Lisbon-based traveller obsessed with nature and off-the-beaten-path places, I wasn’t sure what to expect from Portugal’s highest mountain range. Was there really snow? Would it be worth the winding drive to mainland Portugal’s highest mountain? Could it offer more than just a tiny ski slope?
Spoiler: it does… and then some.
From sipping hot chocolate in misty mountain villages to watching wide-eyed kids slide down snowy hills near Torre, winter in Serra da Estrela feels almost surreal. And if you’re not into snow? The glacier valleys, hiking trails, and buttery cheese are reason enough to go in all other seasons!
In this guide, I’ll show you what Serra da Estrela is really like in winter, not just the ski resort brochure version. You’ll get practical tips, hidden gems, personal anecdotes, and honest advice to help you decide when to visit, where to stay, and how to make the most of this wild, wonderful region in central Portugal.
Let’s dive in! And yes, I’ll even tell you how likely it is that you’ll actually see snow.
What is Serra da Estrela, Portugal?
Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal and a must-see for everyone who loves nature! The peak is called Torre, and it it’s 1,993 meters (6,539 feet) high.
Serra da Estrela Natural Park is located in Central Portugal and is part of a protected natural park that covers forests, glacial valleys, and remote villages. The mountain range is 100 kilometres long and 30 kilometres wide, and there is plenty to see and do in all seasons!
It’s a very different side of Portugal. Colder, quieter, more isolated. Instead of beaches and cities, you’ll find mountain roads, tiny towns, and local cheese shops where everything moves slower. It also is home to three important rivers: the Mondego, the Alva, and the Zêzere. This last river ultimately flows into the well-known Tagus.
Serra da Estrela is known for its snow in winter, hiking in summer, and traditional food all year round. It’s also home to Queijo da Serra da Estrela, one of Portugal’s most famous cheeses, and a reason people visit even if they’re not into outdoor activities. It’s 100% my favourite Portuguese cheese!
It’s not a major international tourist destination, which is why we love visiting. Most people visiting are Portuguese families looking to see snow or locals escaping the cities for fresh air and mountain views.
Serra da Estrela map with highlights
Visiting Serra da Estrela in winter
Winter is the most popular season to visit Serra da Estrela, and it’s one of the few places in Portugal where you can regularly see snow. That alone makes it a novelty for many travellers and especially locals who have never experienced it before!
I came to Serra da Estrela in winter with a group of Brazilian friends who’d never seen snow before! The looks on their faces were priceless, and we had such a lovely time!
If you’re coming with hopes of snow, timing matters. While the season can start as early as late November, the most reliable snow tends to fall between January and mid-February. But it’s not guaranteed. Some winters are light, with just a few snowy weekends. Others bring heavy snowfall and closed roads.
That’s why I always check the live Serra da Estrela webcams and the road status before going. You can also call the local tourism office to confirm if Torre (the highest point) is accessible, as it’s often closed after a snowstorm. You can also check the weather forecast on the IPMA website before planning your trip.
Even when the snow does arrive, it’s not quite a full mountain resort experience. You’ll find families playing with sleds, short ski runs, and plenty of people just there for the views. Expect traffic, especially on weekends. We parked 2 kilometres away from Torre due to traffic!
But visiting Serra da Estrela in winter is worth it! The snowy mountain backdrop is fantastic, and there are some winter activities for all ages. Let’s take a closer look!
Is it snowing? Let’s visit the Serra da Estrela ski resort!
There’s a small ski resort near Torre with a few basic lifts. It is the only ski resort in the country, and Estância de Esqui da Serra da Estrela is perfect for beginners and kids! You won’t find challenging runs or long trails. Instead, it’s a place where families come for a first-time snow experience sledding, short ski lessons, snowball fights, and taking photos.
January, February, and March are the best times to ski and snowboard in Portugal. And if there isn’t enough snow for skiing, artificial snow and snow cannons will keep the pistes covered in a blanket of snow during the winter months.
There is a place where you can rent skis, snowboards, and gear. And if you’ve never skied before, you can also take classes. There are nine slopes in total, with a total length of 6.1 kilometres. Serra da Estrela Ski and the ski lifts are open from November to April. For more information about times, prices, and maps, click here.
If you’ve skied in other countries, this might feel more like a snow park than a true resort. But for travellers who’ve never seen snow, it can still be exciting. Just keep your expectations realistic.
There are usually a couple of food stalls or snack bars open at Torre, but they fill up fast on busy days. Restaurante Vale Do Rossim is the nearest one for the ski area. I suggest packing snacks, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
Teleférico da Serra da Estrela
Next to the towers, you’ll also see the Teleférico da Serra da Estrela. Take a ride on the cable car and enjoy the most magnificent views! Each gondola has space for four people. Tickets are €7.50 for adults (2023), and children under six can travel for free. When you use the teleférico in winter, wear enough clothes! It might be windy, and the air makes the ride pretty cold.
Winter driving and road conditions
Getting to Serra da Estrela in winter takes a bit of planning, especially if snow is on the ground. The main road up to Torre is usually open unless there’s been a heavy snowfall, in which case it may close for safety. Even when it’s open, it can get hectic fast.
On one of my trips, we hit standstill traffic just before the final stretch to Torre. The small car park at the top fills up quickly, and once it’s full, cars are forced to turn around or park further down along the roadside. That day, we had to leave our car far below and hike up, which, honestly, ended up being the best part. The walk was peaceful, and we got to enjoy the views without sitting in traffic.
There are a few designated parking zones along the road to the top, but they’re not always clearly marked, and they fill up fast on weekends or public holidays. If you’re going during peak snow season (January or February), aim to arrive early. Ideally before 10 AM.
If you’re renting a car, check whether snow chains are included or even required (sometimes they are). Roads can get icy, especially in the mornings. And while the drive is beautiful, it’s not worth risking in poor conditions.
If you’re not comfortable driving, it’s worth considering staying overnight in a nearby town like Manteigas or Covilhã and making your way up slowly the next day, rather than doing it as a rushed trip from Lisbon or Porto. There are also some guided tours available.
Trip to Serra da Estrela in summer
Hiking Trails in the Serra da Estrela Mountain Range
Not only is Serra da Estrela an excellent place to visit in winter, but it’s also an activity paradise with warmer weather! There are more than 300 kilometres of marked trails in the Serra da Estrela mountains, and some of the best in the country! The perfect spot for a hike!
You’ll discover glacial valleys, plants and birds, sources of the largest rivers in Portugal, waterfalls, and pine forests.
There are suitable trails for beginners and advanced tourists, and you can find some beautiful trails here.
Some favourite Serra da Estrela hiking trails are:
- PR1 MTG Rota do Poço do Inferno
- PR2 MTG Boar Manteigas
- PR6 MTG Vale Glaciar do Zêzere
- PR7 MTG Rota dos Poios Brancos
- PR11 MTG Sun
- Covão dos Conchos
Adventurous activities
Besides going on a hike, there are many other activities for tourists. For example, there are 43 mountain biking trails in Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela! Discover the MTB routes, and rent a bike in the nearby towns. In need of more adrenaline? Then canyoning is for you! Other outdoor activities include horse riding, fishing, climbing, and rafting.
River beaches, lakes, and waterfalls
Do you prefer some chill time in the sun by the water? Then you can visit some of the many waterfalls! Examples are Poço do Funil, Poço da Broca, Calhão Mogueiro, and Poço do Inferno.
There are also some fantastic lakes and river beaches where people love swimming during the summer months. Praia Fluvial de Loriga even has a beach, and there are 25 pools to discover! The large lake Lagoa Comprida is also a fantastic spot to visit! Are you near Manteigas? Then Praia Fluvial do Vale do Rossim is a good spot to visit!
Covão dos Conchos looks like a natural sinkhole but is artificial. It was constructed to create a spillway and water diversion from Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida.
Year-Round Activities in Serra da Estrela
Check out the towers at Torre Portugal
Next to the ski resort, you’ll spot another iconic place. Torre is the highest mountain, and two towers (torres) can be seen here. During the Cold War, they were used by NATO as a radar station (if you’ve been to Berlin, they might remind you of the towers at Teufelsberg).
These 1970s towers are historical monuments from that time but are no longer in use and are abandoned. There are also some shops where you can buy local products such as ham and cheese. You can also use the toilets and grab a bite to eat in the restaurant.
There is a small roundabout close to the car park, and you’ll find a statue in the middle. This large cross is 7 meters high, making this point precisely 2,000 meters above sea level. This spot marks the highest place on mainland Portugal! Enjoy the area’s walking trail and the magical views over Serra da Estrela! You can even see as far as the Atlantic Ocean with clear skies!
Our Lady of the Good Star
Before you reach the top, you might spot a carved-out sanctuary. Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela (Our Lady of the Good Star) can be seen from the road, and it’s a small sanctuary carved into the mountainside. It’s worth stopping here and discovering the short hiking trail.
The statue was made by António Duarte and was placed here in 1946. The figure is to honour the local shepherds who have a hard job keeping the flocks safe in these temperatures and weather conditions. The statue is 7 meters tall (23 feet), and on the second Sunday in August, many people come here for a mass. A small car park is here, so you can visit the sanctuary easily.
Thermal spa Serra da Estrela
After all that hiking, skiing, and cycling, it’s time to relax! Thankfully, Serra da Estrela has several spas in the area! Check out the H2otel Congress & Medical SPA in Unhais da Serra, one of the biggest in Europe.
Or visit Termas Caldas de Manteigas, where you’ll enjoy relaxing treatments. Termas de Almeida – Fonte Santa is another recommendation. You might find reduced hours off-season, so check before heading for a relaxing bath!
Wool in Serra da Estrela
The wool produced by goats and sheep is also used. The town of Covilhã is known for its woolwork and woollen fabrics. If you’re into knitting and yarn, check out Woolfest! In Manteigas, you can take a look at the Burel Factory. Many beautiful garments, blankets and other wool products are made here.
Meet the Serra da Estrela Dog
One of the most iconic symbols of the region is the Serra da Estrela dog (Cão da Serra da Estrela). It’s a large, loyal mountain breed that’s native to these highlands. Traditionally, they were used by shepherds to protect flocks from wolves and other threats. They are known for their intelligence, independence, and thick coat, perfectly suited to the cold winters.
You’ll sometimes spot them around farms and even at trailheads, often watching over sheep with quiet confidence. They aren’t aggressive but can be reserved with strangers, as they’re working dogs, not pets in the usual sense. If you’re a dog lover, keep an eye out! Some local families still raise Serra da Estrela pups, and you may even see them at regional fairs or cheese festivals as part of traditional displays.
Villages to visit near Serra da Estrela
One of the best things about visiting Serra da Estrela is exploring the small towns and villages scattered through the mountains. They’re not polished tourist spots, but that’s what makes them special. You’ll find quiet streets, traditional stone houses, and family-run cafés where the pace of life is slower.
Manteigas
The village of Manteigas is centrally located and a great spot to start exploring Serra da Estrela. It’s close to Poço do Inferno waterfall, and the PR2 is a fun hike through the village. Check GreenTracks for all local hikes. Unhais da Serra is a cute village in the southern part, and a river runs through it.
Guarda
Guarda is a city at the highest altitude (1,056 meters-3,465 feet) in Portugal. Making it also one of the coldest! The city is known for the five F’s: Farta (abundant), Forte (strong), Fria (cold), Fiel (loyal), and Formosa (beautiful). Highlights are the cathedral, the historic centre, and Torre de Menagem.
Sabugueiro
Sabugueiro is often called the highest village in Portugal, and it’s one of the first places to get snow. It’s small, with a few local shops selling regional products. Please try the Queijo da Serra. It’s also close to the main road up to Torre, so it makes a good stop for a quick bite or snack before heading higher.
Covilhã
Covilhã is one of the main towns on the southern edge of Serra da Estrela and often acts as a gateway for people heading up toward Torre. It’s not a quiet village like Manteigas or Sabugueiro, but it’s worth including because it’s where many travelers start their mountain drive, and it’s also where you’ll find the best infrastructure. It’s known as the village of wool and snow with a beautiful historic centre.
Belmonte
Technically a little outside the central park, Belmonte is worth visiting if you’re interested in history. It has a well-preserved Jewish quarter and a small castle, and it’s quieter than towns closer to the snow. If you’re driving back toward Lisbon or the east, it makes a good cultural stop on the way.
Linhares da Beira
Linhares da Beira is one of Portugal’s 12 Historic Villages and feels like stepping into a different time. It’s built on a hillside with views over the surrounding valleys, and its granite houses, cobbled lanes, and medieval castle give it a timeless, storybook feel.
Other Small Villages
There are dozens of villages throughout the region, like Loriga, Folgosinho, Seia, Gouveia, Valezim, and Alvoco da Serra. These towns barely make it onto the tourist maps!
They may not all have restaurants or accommodation, but if you’re up for slow travel, they’re a great way to see how people live in these mountain areas. Many have short walking trails or river spots that are better known in summer but still worth passing through.
Piódão is located just outside Serra da Estrela, and it is also a great place to visit! Discover the charming houses or visit Praia Fluvial de Piódão on a hot day.
Queijo Serra da Estrela DOP
When you visit Serra da Estrela, you might notice fields full of sheep and goats. You might even hit a traffic jam with farm animals! Raw sheep’s milk is used to make one of Portugal’s most famous cheeses.
Queijo Serra da Estrela DOP is a tasty soft sheep’s cheese from this region, and the recipe goes back 2000 years! Ancient techniques are still used for rich and memorable cheese making.
The cheese is made from raw Bordaleira sheep’s milk and salt and is used in many local dishes. Try it with some rye bread and enjoy! Want to learn more about Serra da Estrela cheese? Visit the Farmer and Cheese Museum in Celorico da Beira! Also, check out the annual Serra da Estrela Cheese Festival in Oliveira do Hospital!
This region produces some of the best foods in the country. You can try the Juniper beef stew in local restaurants, olive oil, smoked meat and sausages (enchidos and alheira de urtiga), or biscoito com Queijo Serra da Estrela and jam. Bom appetite!
How do you get to Serra da Estrela from Lisbon and Porto?
Rent a car
Serra da Estrela is located in Central Portugal, and it’s easy to get there by car. From Lisbon, follow the A1 northbound and the A23 towards Castelo Branco. Serra da Estrela is around 3 hours from Lisbon.
From Porto, you can reach Serra da Estrela in 2.5 to 3 hours. Follow the A1 southbound and take the A25 towards Viseu. Driving to Serra da Estrela is the easiest, although some trains ride to nearby towns.
To discover the mountains, it’s easiest to have a car. There are toll roads on the way to Serra da Estrela, but you can rent a toll tracker during your car rental. Need help with renting a car when you visit Portugal? Read the complete guide, and check the car rental prices below for your visit to Serra da Estrela.
Join an excursion
Because Serra da Estrela is still a lesser-known destination in Portugal, you won’t find as many organized tours as in more popular regions.
But here are a few options!
You can book a private tour for a more personalized experience or join a small group trip that covers key highlights like Torre, local villages, and cheese tasting. Keep in mind that many tours are seasonal and may only run during peak times, especially when snow is expected.
Where to stay in Serra da Estrela
There are hotels in Serra da Estrela. Covilhã is perfect if you like a bigger town and staying close to Torre. If you enjoy a hike and being surrounded by nature, Manteigas is perfect! Check the hotels below to find your dream accommodation in Serra da Estrela.
Depending on your plans, you’ll need a minimum of 1 to 2 nights to visit most sights. If you come here to enjoy the snow in Portugal and go skiing, you’ll need more time to enjoy this beautiful part of Portugal.
Below I have also listed our favorite places to stay so far!
📍 Luna Chalés de Montanha is a mountain resort in Penhas da Saúde with stunning chalets. The views are incredible, and it’s on the route to Torre. There is an on-site restaurant, tennis court, kids club, and swimming pool.
📍Casas Da Lapa, Nature & Spa Hotel is perfect if you love the outdoors and want to relax at the same time. The hotel is located in Seia and has spa facilities, an outdoor swimming pool, a sauna, a sun terrace, and an indoor pool. There is also an onsite restaurant
📍In Manteigas we like staying at Casa das Penhas Douradas or the Vila Galé Collection Serra da Estrela. Both hotels have swimming pools and wellness facilities, as well as comfortable rooms and incredible views.
Practical tips for visiting
Serra da Estrela weather and temperatures
The coldest months in Serra da Estrela are December through April. The average temperatures in winter range from -2°C (28.4°F) to 12°C (53°F), and, as you can see, it occasionally drops to freezing.
Add a little wind, and a winter jacket, gloves, and a hat are certainly needed! Additionally, many homes lack central heating but instead feature a fireplace. In hotels, you’ll often use an electrical heater. Warm clothes are a must in winter.
In summer, you can expect warm weather! In August, temperatures typically range from around 32°C (90°F). During the summer months, temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F). This and the extreme drought caused many forest fires in the region. For the current weather conditions, it’s wise to check the webcam.
Avoid the crowds
During the weekend, the roads are busy, and there might be traffic jams in the mountains! Visiting the Serra da Estrela mountain during the week will be a great option to avoid crowds.
Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau
If you can’t make it to Serra da Estrela during your trip to Portugal, visit Casa do Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau in the major cities. The first shop opened in 2015 on Rua Augusta in Lisbon, but there are many shops throughout Portugal. The codfish cakes have the Serra da Estrela Cheese DOP hidden inside! Perfect with a glass of port wine! Stores are in Lisbon, Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, Aveiro, Cascais, and Óbidos.
Bonus: 3-Day Winter Itinerary Sample
If you’re planning a long weekend or winter getaway in Serra da Estrela, here’s how we spent three slow-paced but adventure-filled days based in Manteigas!
Manteigas is the ideal winter base. It’s peaceful, well-located for snow adventures and hiking, and has cozy places to stay. You’ll also find small cafés, bakeries, and access to some of the best mountain views without needing to drive far.
Day 1: Arrival + Settle In
- Arrive in Manteigas by early afternoon.
- Settle into your accommodation and take a short walk through town.
- Grab dinner at a local restaurant. We enjoyed hearty soups, mountain cheeses, and local meats at Restaurant Central.
- If you’re up for it, visit a viewpoint like Miradouro do Fragão do Corvo for sunset.
Day 2: Torre, Snow, and the Highest Point in Portugal
- Leave early for Torre, aiming to arrive before 10 AM to avoid traffic.
- If snow is fresh, bring or rent sleds for some low-key fun.
- Explore the Serra da Estrela Ski Resort or take a ski/snowboard lesson (especially fun with kids or beginners).
- Ride the Teleférico da Serra da Estrela (cable car) if it’s operating.
- Take photos near the radar towers and visit the monument marking Portugal’s highest point.
- On the way back, stop at Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela, the sanctuary carved into the rock.
- Return to Manteigas for a hot shower and warm dinner.
Tip: Pack snacks and water for the day. Food stalls near Torre fill up fast, and parking may require walking.
Day 3: Waterfalls and Winter Hikes Near Manteigas
- Start your day with a short drive to Poço do Inferno: It’s a small but dramatic waterfall just outside Manteigas, but after rain it gets HUGE!
- Choose one of the nearby PR hiking trails, such as:
- PR1 MTG: Rota do Poço do Inferno (2.5 km)
- PR2 MTG: Rota do Javali (Boar Trail). It’s a bit longer but with great views
- Stop in town afterward for lunch or coffee.
- In the afternoon, explore a nearby village like Sabugueiro or just enjoy the mountain views from a scenic drive.
Optional add-on: Visit the Burel Factory to learn about the region’s wool tradition and shop for handmade blankets or clothing.
FAQ
What does Serra da Estrela mean?
“Serra da Estrela” translates to “Mountain Range of the Star.” It’s named after a local legend involving a guiding star.
Is Serra da Estrela worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you love nature, mountains, or exploring places off the main tourist trail. It’s one of the few regions in Portugal where you can see snow in winter and hike through glacial valleys in summer. The food, cheese, and peaceful villages make it worth the trip year-round.
Does it snow in Portugal?
Yes, but only in specific areas. The Serra da Estrela mountains and Madeira’s Pico Ruivo are some of the few places in Portugal where it snows regularly, mostly between December and February.
Where is Serra da Estrela, Portugal?
Serra da Estrela is in Central Portugal, between the towns of Covilhã, Seia, and Manteigas. It’s part of a large protected natural park and includes the highest peak on mainland Portugal.
What is Serra da Estrela cheese made from?
Queijo Serra da Estrela DOP is made from raw Bordaleira sheep’s milk, salt, and thistle rennet. It’s soft, creamy, and considered one of Portugal’s finest traditional cheeses.
How high is Serra da Estrela?
The highest point is Torre, which stands at 1,993 meters (6,539 feet) above sea level. It is the tallest mountain on mainland Portugal.
Why do we keep going back to Serra da Estrela?
We love nature, and Serra da Estrela is amazing in each season. Sometimes we want to spend time in the snow, and other times, we enjoy a summer hike through the Zêzere Valley.
This place manages to feel wild, raw, and grounding at the same time. There’s still space here to breathe, to wander, and to feel like you’ve discovered something that most people rushing through Portugal never see.
Serra da Estrela may not be a polished resort destination. Even many hotels are super basic! And that’s exactly why we love it. Whether you’re coming for the snow, the trails, the food, or simply a different kind of Portuguese experience, prepare to be surprised!
Discover more nature in Portugal!
- Things to do at Serra da Arrábida Natural Park near Lisbon
- Stunning nature at the Berlengas Islands near Peniche
- Snow in Portugal; Visit Serra da Estrela for skiing
- 8 Irresistible beaches in Sintra to visit during your holiday
- Discover the Sado River and Estuary for a day of bird and dolphin watching
- See the Nazaré big waves in action this winter!
- Beautiful paradise of Ria Formosa Natural Park in the Algarve
- How to visit the Benagil Cave, Algarve + Best Tours
- Beautiful views at Praia da Marinha beach, Algarve
- Beautiful Vereda do Pico Ruivo hike to Madeira’s highest peak
- Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço coastal hike in Madeira
- PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A Madeira must-do
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