Attractions and Places To See in the Serra da Estrela Mountains - Top 20

Cântaro Magro is one of the "commonplaces" of the Serra da Estrela mountain range, whose summit rises to 1928 m altitude, deserving a visit at any time of year. Viewed from west to east, its silhouette resembles a pitcher. In summer, its rocky face is interrupted by small terraces of soil, where some of the rarest botanical jewels of the mountain range grow. In winter, it is covered in snow and ice which, as they melt, form ephemeral waterfalls. These recall the overflowing liquid from the pitchers carried on the heads of women when, in the past, they went to the fountains. #CISE #VisitSeia #ParqueNaturaldaSerradaEstrela

Covão dos Conchos is an artificial lagoon located in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Portugal, near the mountain village of Sabugueiro. Covão dos Conchos became famous for its bell-mouth spillway[1]. The spillway was built in 1955 to allow water to be transferred from the Ribeira das Naves River to Lagoa Comprida. It is part of the Serra da Estrela Hydroelectric System. This science fiction-style spillway became famous when photographs of the hole went viral on social media in 2016. Over the past 60 years, the growth of vegetation at the funnel's mouth has created extraordinary biodiversity and increased its ethereal allure. It is 4.6 meters high and 48 meters in circumference. The tunnel that collects the water is 1,519 meters long.

The Lapa dos Dinheiros river beach is in perfect harmony with nature. Located in the parish of Lapa dos Dinheiros, on the Caniça River, a right-bank tributary of the Alva River, this bathing area is nestled in a mountainous landscape dominated by the Lapa Souto (south of Lapa) and imposing granite outcrops. With clear water, very appealing for swimming, the beach boasts the award for accessible beach and has lifeguards and a bar available to visitors. The rugged terrain of the valley causes the river to form a succession of small waterfalls nearby. The Lapa Souto, in addition to its valuable collection of centuries-old chestnut trees, is also home to a high level of biodiversity. From the bridge, a pedestrian path leads to the Moura Hole and a viewpoint over the Caniça Waterfalls. The Buraco da Moura is a natural cave system created by the sliding and accumulation of large granite blocks, which formed a complex system of rooms and galleries. How to get there? Once in Seia, follow the EN231 to S. Romão. From there, continue uphill for about 5 km, toward Loriga/Lapa, until you find the sign for Lapa dos Dinheiros on the left. Once inside the town, simply follow the beach signs. Coordinates: 40º 23′ 07.0″ N / 7º 41′ 50.1″ W

Located within the Planalto Superior biogenetic reserve, the Rossim Valley is a unique location of great scientific, environmental, and scenic value that deserves to be protected and enhanced. Although it is an artificial lake, over time, conditions have been created that have transformed this area into an excellent leisure and recreation area that attracts countless tourists. The Vale do Rossim recreation center is located at an average altitude of 1,437 meters. Before the dam was built, it was one of the best high-altitude pastures in the municipality of Gouveia. The area has almost always been frequented by transhumance herds, flocks that gathered here from São João to the Sr. do Calvário festivities in August.

Both Piódão and Foz d'Égua are accessible by car. But it's worth hiking the trail that connects them. It takes about 45 minutes, downhill from Piódão to Foz d'Égua (remember that the return is a slight climb). It's worth crossing the restored suspension bridge in Foz d'Égua before returning to Piódão. The Foz d'Égua pool is a popular spot for a dip in its very cold waters. Dipping your feet in the icy water of the stream is always very pleasant after a hike, immersing yourself in nature. I did it and recommend it. 👍🥾

Piódão belongs to the network of Historic Villages of Portugal. The town (village) of Piódão, the urban center and the parish headquarters, has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1978.[3] Pedestrian trails of extraordinary beauty.👍🥾🦯

This area has been hit by a serious forest fire in recent weeks.

At over 1,400 meters above sea level, the Rossim Valley Reservoir is a haven of granite, pine trees, and crystal-clear waters in the heart of the Serra da Estrela Mountains. It's the perfect setting for strolls, summer swims, and admiring nature in all its splendor, one of Portugal's highest jewels.