The best MTB trails around Manteigas

Vila Galé Hotel Serra da Estrela.

Hiking in the Serra da Estrela is always pleasant, with stunning scenery and spectacular trails. 👍

This restaurant and bar is located right on the lake (there's nothing else in the area), and it's nice to sip a nice beer 🍺 and grab a bite to eat after a sunny day or a nice hike. Also... For those who want to stay longer, there's the Vale do Rossim Eco Resort: camping, equipped yurts, or wooden cabins, with the option of half-board at a reasonable price at this lakeside restaurant. Breakfast is good, dinner is very simple, but all drinks are included, including a bottle of wine 🍷 🤪.

Here you ride on a wide dirt path that winds its way through the thick vegetation of the forest. The scents are wonderful and the shade gives you a bit of relief even on the hottest days.

Lagoa Comprida is the largest glacial lake in Serra da Estrela, Portugal, and one of the most iconic spots in the Natural Park. Its name, meaning "Long Lake," perfectly describes its elongated shape, nestled between the surrounding peaks. Originally a glacial lake, it was artificially enlarged with the construction of a dam in the early 20th century for hydroelectric power generation, becoming an important reservoir. Its crystalline waters reflect the sky and the rugged surrounding mountains, creating breathtaking views. It is a popular starting point for hikes and treks to other lagoons and peaks, and offers a sense of grandeur and serenity typical of alpine environments.

Poço do Inferno is a wild and evocative waterfall located in the Serra da Estrela. The name, which means "Well of Hell", comes from the depth of the gorge and the impetuous force of the water that throws itself between the granite rocks, creating an almost mystical and primordial atmosphere. The waterfall is formed by the Leandres stream, a tributary of the Mondego River, and its waters fall for about 10 meters into a natural basin. Surrounded by dense vegetation and mossy rock formations, the area is particularly fascinating, especially after rains, when the flow of water is greater.

Covão da Ponte is an idyllic and picturesque place, a true hidden gem in the Serra da Estrela. Situated along the upper reaches of the Mondego River, it is renowned for its serene beauty and enchanting landscapes. Featuring wide grassy expanses, water-polished granite rocks and groves of trees, it is an ideal place for relaxation, picnics and quiet walks. The Mondego River flows here peacefully, forming small pools and waterfalls that contribute to the atmosphere of peace and harmony. It is especially appreciated for its fresh air and the feeling of isolation from the daily hustle and bustle, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

Caminho dos Poios with views of the Vale Glaciar do Zêzere The Caminho dos Poios, or the "Poios" (agricultural terraces) Trail, offers spectacular views of the vast and imposing Vale Glaciar do Zêzere, a masterpiece of nature sculpted by ancient glaciers. This trail winds along the sides of the mountain, offering panoramic views that embrace the entire "U" valley, highlighting its grandeur and the singularity of the landscape. The route allows you to appreciate not only the glacial morphology with its steep walls and moraine deposits, but also the human ingenuity in adapting the territory, as evidenced by the terraces that characterize the landscape in some areas. It is an immersion in the wild beauty of the Serra da Estrela, with the opportunity to contemplate one of its most significant geological treasures.