A Mountain Retreat in the Serra da Estrela
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Viseu is the ideal spot to begin your holiday break to mainland Portugal’s highest mountain.
Wander through the gardens in Rossio and kindle your spiritual energies in the Grão Vasco Museum. Then do a bit of shopping in the Rua Direita. For lunch, try out some of the regional specialities such as Lafões-style veal or egg chestnuts for dessert, accompanied by a glass of Dão wine - you’re right in the heart of the Dão demarcated wine region. Round off the day in Caldas da Felgueira, next to Mondego, strolling through the tranquil atmosphere of the thermal spas.
Next morning, head to Seia to visit the “Museu do Pão” (Bread Museum). You can also buy Serra da Estrela cheese – the region’s biggest gastronomical specialty. In order to see mainland Portugal’s highest mountain, choose the itinerary that passes through Loriga and Alvoco da Serra, or a more mountainous route from Sabugueiro to Torre, the highest peak in mainland Portugal. Both offer fabulous views of the glacial mountain range.
Take advantage of the mid-afternoon sunlight to wind your way around the mountain slopes to Covilhã and visit the Wool Museum. At the end of the day, stay in the Hotel Príncipe da Beira, in Fundão, or in a Rural Tourism house in a village nestled within the fantastic natural landscape of the Serra da Gardunha.
On the last day of your trip, visit the enchanting town of Alpedrinha, and the historic villages of Castelo Novo, Idanha-a-Velha and Monsanto. The latter has been classified as the most genuine village in Portugal. Ascending the narrow streets to the castle, you will be able to savour views that typify the peace and enchantment of the Centre region. Another well-preserved village is Penha Garcia, facing Monsanto.
Round off your 3-day trip in the Monfortinho Thermal Spas, where you can prolong your visit on a relaxation programme.
Suggestions/
Journey through two traditional wine routes in central Portugal, where the River Dão runs between mountains to coastal lagoons and sandy shores.
Lose yourself among the clouds on a stimulating walk through the Serra da Estrela mountains.
Centro de Portugal is home to some of the best-loved specialities in Portuguese cuisine.
Castelo Novo lies in the superb natural amphitheatre of the Serra da Gardunha. The region is characterised by fine manor houses belonging to local noble ...
On a high cliff lies a village known as the most Portuguese village in Portugal. As well as preserving the nation’s oldest traditions, the village’s climate ...
Leisure and a sense of well-being - a healthy proposal at one of the many spas in Centro de Portugal.