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Check out these popular cities in Serra da Estrela

Covilhã

77 hotels

Guarda

57 hotels

Manteigas

58 hotels

Seia

113 hotels

Sabugueiro

47 hotels

Gouveia

34 hotels

Loriga

19 hotels

Stay in Serra da Estrela's best hotels!

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Vila Galé Collection Serra da Estrela

Hotel in Manteigas

Situated in Manteigas, 16 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Vila Galé Collection Serra da Estrela features accommodation with a garden, private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace.

P
PAUL
From
United Kingdom
STAFF WERE VERY FRIENDLY HOTEL WAS CLEAN, FOOD WAS VERY GOOD EXCELENT VALUE FOR MONEY
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,196 reviews
Price from
VND 4,874,652
1 night, 2 adults

H2otel Congress & Medical SPA

Hotel in Unhais da Serra

This hotel is located in Unhais da Serra, a village tucked away in Serra da Estrela Natural Park. It features a large landscaped pool, and specializes in spa and wellness treatments.

K
Krzysztof
From
Netherlands
We had a fantastic experience at the hotel, especially enjoying the thermal pool – it was amazing! What stood out to us was the exceptional service, both by the pool and at the bar. The staff was attentive and friendly, making our stay even more enjoyable. We also had a toast for dinner one evening, and it was delicious! The price was very reasonable for such great quality. Overall, we had a wonderful time and highly recommend this hotel for anyone looking for relaxation and great service.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,807 reviews
Price from
VND 6,499,536
1 night, 2 adults

Sport Hotel Gym + SPA

Hotel in Covilhã

Situated in the heart of Covilhã, Sport Hotel Gym + SPA offers air-conditioned rooms with a TV. Facilities include a mini market within the hotel. The Serra da Estrela National Park is only 6 km away....

G
Gokce
From
Turkey
The room was quite spacious and had an excellent view. The bathroom was clean, and the shower had warm water all the time. I didn't get to use the spa, so if you are coming here, do bring a swimsuit.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,457 reviews
Price from
VND 2,011,764
1 night, 2 adults

Vale do Zêzere Hotel

Hotel in Manteigas

Located in Manteigas, within 18 km of Parque Natural Serra da Estrela and less than 1 km of Manteigas Hot Springs, Vale do Zêzere Hotel provides accommodation with a bar and as well as free private...

K
Ksusha_ua
From
Ukraine
Nice hotel with a very beautiful view!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 807 reviews
Price from
VND 2,011,764
1 night, 2 adults

Quinta do Rio Noémi

Hotel in Guarda

Located in Guarda, 5.6 km from Guarda Castle, Quinta do Rio Noémi provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace.

K
Katherine
From
United Kingdom
Wonderful stay at this beautiful hotel .Host very hospitable and welcoming Definitely be back !
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.7
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 631 reviews
Price from
VND 3,868,771
1 night, 2 adults

Casa das Muralhas

Hotel in Covilhã

Casa das Muralhas features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge and restaurant in Covilhã. Offering a bar, the property is located within 17 km of Parque Natural Serra da Estrela....

L
Linden
From
Ireland
Beautiful restoration of an original large city residence. Breakfast was fantastic, real quality ingredients. Restaurant looked lovely too, although it was booked out for us. Swimming pool area very nice and modern. The building looked quite plain on the outside but had lovely interesting decor when inside. Parking for our 10 motorcycles right outside the door. A gem of a place.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
Superb - What previous guests thought, 509 reviews
Price from
VND 4,178,273
1 night, 2 adults

Casa de São Lourenço - Burel Panorama Hotel - member of Relais & Châteaux

Hotel in Manteigas

Set in Manteigas, 25 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Casa de São Lourenço - Burel Panorama Hotel - member of Relais & Châteaux offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a...

B
Barbara
From
Brazil
Amazing view, very relaxing atmosphere, great breakfast! The spa was also very good.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 336 reviews
Price from
VND 8,936,862
1 night, 2 adults

Madre de Água Hotel Rural de Charme

Hotel in Gouveia

Just a 5-minute drive away from the city of Gouveia, in the slopes of Serra da Estrela Mountain, Madre De Água Hotel Rural de Charme is located in a producing wine, cheese and olive oil farm.

P
Patrícia
From
Sweden
The place is lovely, the staff is outstanding! The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful, and the breakfast was superb. It was the second time I stayed here and will come again.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 241 reviews
Price from
VND 4,642,526
1 night, 2 adults

Casas Da Lapa, Nature & Spa Hotel

Hotel in Seia

Situated in Seia, 29 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Casas Da Lapa, Nature & Spa Hotel features accommodation with free bikes, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a...

A
Ari
From
Israel
The staff facility care food amenities were all exceptional It's such a pleasure to rate this extraordinary place where we stayed for 3 nights . The room itself was immaculate and super comfortable. The facilities is in great standard, very well equipped and pleasant I had a back injury and hence was stranded in the room , the owner Maria-Manuel has personally taken me to the hospital and took great care of me during the process including  helping me get medications, and the staff bringing food to the room and taking care of all our needs in a very gentle kind and friendly manner. Later when we looked for an easily  accessible shower the owner upgraded us to a suite that has an accessible shower. I couldn't  even dream of such a caring and compassionate service🏆 The staff was super accommodating and friendly and the rest of the amenities were gorgeous In spite of our circumstances we genuinely enjoyed this hotel's extraordinary hospitality and warmth. 🥂 Thank you !
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 660 reviews
Price from
VND 6,128,137
1 night, 2 adults

INATEL Linhares da Beira Hotel Rural

Hotel in Linhares

INATEL Linhares da Beira Hotel Rural features a garden, shared lounge, a terrace and bar in Linhares.

C
Claire
From
Ireland
The grounds of the hotel were nice and the village, although remote was beautiful and quaint. The room had direct access to the garden and was spotless.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 312 reviews
Price from
VND 2,757,660
1 night, 2 adults
See all 555 hotels in Serra da Estrela

Most booked hotels in Serra da Estrela in the past month

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Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.1
Very good - What previous guests thought, 6,381 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,807 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,248 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,278 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,145 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,457 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,674 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,196 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,346 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,323 reviews

Serra da Estrela's best hotels with breakfast

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 356 reviews

Situated in Serra da Estrela Nature Park’s mountains, this design hotel offers mountain-view rooms with amenities including an LCD TV. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,346 reviews

Located in Sabugueiro, within the natural landscape of Serra da Estrela Natural Park, this 4-star hotel features an à la carte restaurant and a bar.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,632 reviews

Offering an outdoor pool and an indoor pool, Pousada da Serra da Estrela is located in Covilhã. Featuring panoramic views of the surrounding landscape this hotel provides free WiFi access.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 2,427 reviews

Located in the historical centre of Guarda, this hotel is 150 metres from the city’s cathedral. The green areas of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park are a 10-minute drive from the Hotel Santos.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,323 reviews

Just a 10 km from the ski slopes of Serra da Estrela, Solneve offers relaxing accommodation in the centre of Covilhã. Guests can benefit from free Wi-Fi.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,243 reviews

Lusitânia Hotel offers rooms with private balconies, just 10 minutes by car from Guarda’s historic city centre. It offers indoor and outdoor swimming pools and an extensive spa area.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,145 reviews

Located on the outskirts of the historical city of Covilhã, the Hotel Covilhã Dona Maria Affiliated by Meliá, offers stunning views over the Cova da Beira valley and surrounding mountains.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,674 reviews

This hotel in Guarda’s centre is located at Portugal’s highest point, at 1000 metres altitude. It has a restaurant overlooking Serra da Estrela.

From VND 4,735,376 per night

Budget hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,278 reviews

Puralã - Wool Valley Hotel & SPA offers air-conditioned rooms and a buffet-style breakfast. It features Nature Club and Spa which offer various beauty treatments and massage therapies.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,619 reviews

Superbly located in the Serra da Estrela Mountains with panoramic views over Cova da Beira valley, this mountain resort features a unique architecture with modern décor and an outside pool.

From VND 8,047,044 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 983 reviews

Situated in Manteigas, 600 metres from Manteigas Hot Springs, Hotel da Vila features rooms with mountain views and free WiFi.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 967 reviews

Hotel Senhora do Espinheiro features a fitness centre, garden, a shared lounge and terrace in Seia.

From VND 3,652,120 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 376 reviews

Set in Celorico da Beira, 37 km from Mangualde Live Artificial Beach, Hotel Quinta dos Cedros offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar.

From VND 4,023,522 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 838 reviews

Only 5 km from the historic centre of Guarda, Hotel Pombeira is located just off the A25 and A23 Motorways. It offers great-value accommodation in spacious rooms and free private parking.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 607 reviews

Located in Gouveia’s city center, the Hotel Eurosol Gouveia Hotel gives its guests easy access to the surrounding areas of Serra da Estrela.

From VND 4,057,567 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 871 reviews

Hotel Eurosol Seia Camelo occupies a prime location in Seia’s city center, being a part of Serra da Estrela Nature Reserve.

Hotels in Serra da Estrela that you can book without a credit card

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
Superb - What previous guests thought, 13 reviews

Set within 43 km of Mangualde Live Artificial Beach and 24 km of Guarda Cathedral, Casas do Durão-Memories House offers rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in Lajeosa.

Hotel Berne

Hotel in Manteigas
No credit card needed
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,190 reviews

In the Serra da Estrela Mountains, this Manteigas hotel offers guest rooms with balconies overlooking forest landscapes of Serra da Estrela .

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.9
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 44 reviews

Set in Seia, 27 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Solar das Tilias - Historic House offers accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and barbecue...

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 86 reviews

Featuring a bar, Hotel Covilhã Jardim is set in Covilhã in the Centro region, 18 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela and 20 km from Belmonte Calvário Chapel.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,248 reviews

Santa Eufémia Covilhã Hotel, just recently renewed, offers neatly furnished rooms and free parking just a 5-minute drive from Covilhã centre.

FAQs about hotels in Serra da Estrela

A Place that Touches the Stars

An ideal destination throughout the year, the stunning mountain range of Serra da Estrela is located in central Portugal. This beautiful region is ideal for hiking and paragliding during the summer, and skiing during the winter months.

The protected Serra da Estela Natural Park features striking rivers, rolling hills, imposing mountains, water springs, green valleys and Portugal’s only ski resort. The highest pick of the Portuguese mainland is called Torre and is reachable by car.

Situated in the foothills of Serra de Estrela, the charming village of Linhares has cobbled streets, traditional stone houses and the majestic castle towers of Linhares da Beira. The town of Guarda is the highest in Portugal and home to a gorgeous 14th-century Gothic cathedral. Wander around the small streets, admire the picturesque granite houses and savour regional soft cheese.

Located in the centre of Portugal, the modern city of Covilhã has a variety of shops, restaurants and outdoor activities. The University of Beira Interior is one of the most important in Portugal.

Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the town of Manteigas has a variety of hotels, guest houses and apartments. Booking.com will help you find the right accommodation in the popular destination of Serra da Estrela.

See reviews by guests who stayed at hotels in Serra da Estrela

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Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 69 reviews
The little apartment is actually a house, on two levels, bedroom and bathroom with shower and WC being on the ground level (also having an entrance from outside), upstairs the large space consisting of kitchen, livingroom area with a foldable dinner table. The kitchen is fully equipped, you´ll miss nothing: olive oil, milk, local honey, etc. The washing machine was a great help for us and the house was really lovely. Rosa was lovely, helped us with anything we needed (although we didn´t speak the same language), the locally made breads she gave us were absolutely delicious! When we ran out of breadspread she gave us her own, that´s how nice the locals are there. At the upstairs entrance there´s a little terrace with a table and two chairs, it was also our space where the cats of the vecinity came for the daily food we gave them and kept us company for the breakfasts and dinners we had outdoors. Very polite cats, very beautiful and quiet sitting area. All citrus trees were full of ripe fruit around the house, the Magnolia blooming (15-19.03.24), a dream... There´s one bar close to the accomodation, inside the bar you´ll find the one and only local shop providing the basics (their coffee is very good and the people very friendly and open). It´s a small, quiet and beautiful village with only 90 inhabitants, go visit it and talk to the locals working at the bar in the evenings, they speak great English and will tell you a lot about the history and culture of the area. It´s close to the nature park so you can get anywhere you need by car.
Guest review by
Juha
Finland
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,278 reviews
The hotel was excellent, very clean. Bedroom and bathroom were great and a good size. The bed was comfortable, and breakfast was fantastic. The only option for dinner in the evening was a buffet, but it was very good. I really could not fault the place. The hotel team were also very friendly. I can’t speak a word of Portuguese, but the staff could not do enough to help out. The cost for one night also includes access to the pool area for free so make sure you remember your swimwear,  like I didn’t.
Guest review by
Stephen
United Kingdom
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,807 reviews
We had a fantastic experience at the hotel, especially enjoying the thermal pool – it was amazing! What stood out to us was the exceptional service, both by the pool and at the bar. The staff was attentive and friendly, making our stay even more enjoyable. We also had a toast for dinner one evening, and it was delicious! The price was very reasonable for such great quality. Overall, we had a wonderful time and highly recommend this hotel for anyone looking for relaxation and great service.
Guest review by
Krzysztof
Netherlands
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.1
Very good - What previous guests thought, 6,381 reviews
Specious hotel with lots of corners, small areas to sit, nice drawings and pictures. The staff engagement is exceptional in every place of the hotel. Excellent breakfast, specious room, comfy bed. Nice bar where you can enjoy the evening.
Guest review by
Radek
Poland
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 373 reviews
Breakfast was great, Location was great, Staff was great, Swimming Pool and Sauna excelent!!! They have a charger for electric cars in their parking lot... so, everything was great! :D
Guest review by
Fabiana
Portugal
From VND 8,047,044 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,619 reviews
The location and the views are absolutely incredible. The staff were very friendly and fun to deal with. The room was clean with the best view I have ever had from a hotel room!
Guest review by
Adrian
United Kingdom
From VND 6,128,134 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 241 reviews
The place is lovely, the staff is outstanding! The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful, and the breakfast was superb. It was the second time I stayed here and will come again.
Guest review by
Patrícia
Sweden
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,243 reviews
The room was spacious, clean, simple and very comfortable. The breakfast was also delicious and satisfying !! At night, the city lights were beautiful and lit up from the room.
Guest review by
MAKOTO
Japan
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 284 reviews
Nice little mountain village, our place was very cozy and had everything you needed. If you love dogs and cats you love it, the owner has several and all are friendly.
Guest review by
Jing
Luxembourg
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 312 reviews
The grounds of the hotel were nice and the village, although remote was beautiful and quaint. The room had direct access to the garden and was spotless.
Guest review by
Claire
Ireland
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,029 reviews
Loved all of it and would go back in a heart beat! Kind staff, and felt like home away from home. A slice of heaven in Seia, with nature all around.
Guest review by
Ann
United States
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,190 reviews
Expertly run hotel with a great restaurant. Off road parking for motorcycles. I'd happily stay there again.
Guest review by
john anthony
Ireland
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 46 reviews
location in centre of town, restaurants close to property, lovely town, environment pictures and nice
Guest review by
Dusan
United Kingdom
From VND 4,735,376 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,674 reviews
Immaculate, breakfast excellent, bed perfect, good choices for restaurant meals. Staff excellent.
Guest review by
Gary
New Zealand
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 336 reviews
Amazing view, very relaxing atmosphere, great breakfast! The spa was also very good.
Guest review by
Barbara
Brazil
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,632 reviews
The building maintains the original deco and details. Nice staff.
Guest review by
DulceMarques
Portugal
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 356 reviews
All is perfect. Nice, peaceful place, superkind staff.
Guest review by
JUAN IGNACIO
Spain
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.1
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,224 reviews
the place are so beautiful and the staff are so nice
Guest review by
Hector
Spain
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 871 reviews
Centre location plenty of cafe and restaurants
Guest review by
Joan
Ireland

Planning a trip? Get inspired by reviews of cities in Serra da Estrela

10

Fascinating history of wool and textile industry, with...

Fascinating history of wool and textile industry, with museums of the past, factories of the present to visit, and futuristic visions created by the New Hand Lab with its web of international artists and strong commitment to local schools and universities. Covilhã is a wonderful place to stay, the gateway to nature trails and stunning landscapes. Nature lovers should keep away from Torre Serra da Estrela and discover the raw beauty of this huge natural park! Very hospital, generous people. (NB: number 5 below "popular places of Covilhã" fails to include its special features)
Guest review by
Andrea
Portugal
10

Guarda is a beautiful city.

Guarda is a beautiful city. In 1 day I walked to all the major sites and enjoyed the food and atmosphere. Another day would have been ideal. Part of Guarda is exposed to the wind so if you go November December time be prepared with warm clothing.
Guest review by
Michael
Portugal
6.0

Not too much to do in the fall. Quiet city.

Not too much to do in the fall. Quiet city. Pretty city from far views in the mountain, very few places where you can try cheese selections with good wine. The wool factories are a key attraction like Burel. Finding great servings of the Serra da Estrela cheese should be easier.
Guest review by
Daniel
United States
10

Seia is a nice little city with plenty of cultural sites,...

Seia is a nice little city with plenty of cultural sites, restaurants, and shops. In general people are very nice and welcome visitors. Nature surrounding the city are beautiful and there are many short and long hiking trails around.
Guest review by
Nuno
Portugal
10

Beautiful Village with warm welcoming people.

Beautiful Village with warm welcoming people. There you have the Comfort of a small vilage but at the same time you can find a lot of options as for restaurants and grocery. Recommended for couples and families who wish to have a break from Big cities.
Guest review by
Matheus
Portugal
8.0

Unhais da Serra is a very small town.

Unhais da Serra is a very small town. It has one outstanding restaurant - As Thermas and another couple of ones that are good options as well. A couple of local shops that carry the delicious cheeses, charcuterie and liquors made in Serra da Estrela. We always stop to replenish or stock - we prefer the tiny mini-market, but the fancier shop has sweatshirts, slippers and interesting items as well. It's the perfect get-away for rest and relaxation. We park the car at the H2otel and do walking to everywhere we need to go over the weekend. I'd say a 3-4 night stay is ideal.
Guest review by
jennie0901
Portugal
10

Perfect Breakfast with fresh bread in a cloth bag on the...

Perfect Breakfast with fresh bread in a cloth bag on the door and fresh milk in a glass bottle in the fridge. Fresh figs and a bottle of good wine for the evening. Really good beds with high quality bedding. Very beautiful wooden floor and windows in a very beautiful blue. Very quiet residential area. Very nice an functional bathroom. Very attractive furniture. Free parking. The best apartment in three-week trip!!!
Guest review by
Claus
Austria
10

Loriga is such a characterful mountain village with...

Loriga is such a characterful mountain village with everything you need for a short stay. Its location in the Serra da Estrela is perfect for hiking, as well as swimming in its fabulous praia fluvial. It has plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars etc. It's very steep though and much of it is not easily accessible by car. Try O Solar restaurant and also O Vicente...both serve excellent food.
Guest review by
julie
Portugal
10

Covilhã is very interesting to visit. Lots to see.

Covilhã is very interesting to visit. Lots to see. Many restaurants and cafes. Taverna a Laranjinha is one of the best restaurants I have ever eaten in. Staff just fantastic and food excellent. Amazing interesting town.
Guest review by
Rose
Ireland
10

Guarda was our first entry point to Portugal as we drove to...

Guarda was our first entry point to Portugal as we drove to the Algarve. from Spain. Check in was very laid back and easy and we were quickly settled in our apartment at Hotel Santos, a family run establishment. The old and young staff provided a level of unintrusive efficient service that some major hotel groups should learn. This is the highest city in Portugal rising above 1200 metres in the Estrella mountains. The view from our window was breathtaking looking out across the valleys below and inhaling the clean cool evening mountain air. We were surprised to find a really vibrant population of around 39000 inhabitants, many shops, cafes and restaurants in such a small community. Guarda today is an important hub for the region where many roads and railway lines meet, providing excellent transport links in every direction. Guarda as its name suggests was a defense against the Moors in days gone by and has many wonderful sights that are well preserved to this day. We found a busy square very close to the hotel almost devoid of tourists where locals sat for hours just chatting and enjoying the restaurants in the summer heat, ensuring that their way of life wasn't taken over by loud music and the chaos of high density tourism. A small part of the square had become a mini water park where children played with hoses and an improvised slide. We joined the people watching the setting sun while enjoying a light snack and the mandatory beer to accompany it. A very comfortable night and excellent breakfast prepared us for the drive to the Algarve. You cant beat this lifestyle for sheer beauty and relaxation.
Guest review by
Timothy
Jersey