About Serra da Estrela

The Serra da Estrela — which translates as ‘Star Mountain Range’ — is a dazzling row of peaks and plateaus. Home to the highest point on mainland Portugal, the area is a popular winter sports destination — particularly appealing as it’s reachable by road. Outdoorsy explorers visiting in the spring or summer, however, can expect gorgeous natural landscapes, fantastic food and a warm welcome at the best places to stay in the Serra da Estrela.

Keen skiers will delight in zipping along snow-clad slopes during the winter months, when the craggy mountain peaks are pristine white and hugely picturesque. Various resorts offer well-maintained trails, equipment hire and lessons for beginners or those looking to further hone their skills. The same area is transformed into a walker's paradise during the warmer months, when verdant meadows frame clear streams, refreshing lakes and dramatic gorges. On cloudless days, the sea — more than 150 kilometres away — is visible.

For a sense of the Serra da Estrela’s cultural heritage, tour lovely Linhares, with its 13th-century castle, or tuck into delicious regional specialities. The Serra da Estrela’s soft cheese, made from a two thousand year old recipe, is not to be missed! Whether you’re dreaming of unwinding in a former monastery, hiding away on a farm or sharing a chic apartment with the whole family, the best places to stay in the Serra da Estrela certainly won’t disappoint.

The Best Places to Stay in the Serra da Estrela

For heritage charm

  • Convento de Belmonte occupies a former medieval monastery on the slopes of the Esperança Mountains in Belmonte. Named after brothers in the order, the guest rooms are simple and elegant, featuring terracotta tiled floors and earthy tones. Savour regional fare in the gourmet restaurant after days of walking in the mountains. A charming heritage choice. 

For families

  • Casas da Lapa has contemporary guest rooms as well as self-catering apartments with space for up to four guests. There's a great table d'hôte and a welcoming feel — as well as very reasonable rates. A wonderful choice for active families looking to discover the Serra da Estrela. 

For boutique chic

  • Madre de Água Hotel Rural is hidden on a beautiful farm outside Gouveia. Boasting ten smart, stylish guest rooms and suites, the hotel invites guests to sample the farm's delicious cheese, wine and olive oil and immerse themselves in a refreshing swimming pool after days of soaking up the region's natural wonders. An idyllic boutique base for keen foodies. 
  • TheVagar Country House has a contemporary feel, with whitewashed interiors and pale wooden furnishings. The atmosphere is peaceful and soothing, with an intimate eatery, sensory forest trails and outdoor tubs for long soaks under the stars. A rustic-chic escape for those seeking to reconnect to nature. 

For an apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Porto International Airport, and drive just under three hours into the mountains. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance. Alternatively, journey by train to various hill stations from hubs across Portugal or neighbouring Spain, before completing your journey by road. 
  • Portugal is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between December and March for great skiing, or between June and September for hiking holidays. Time your trip outside the school holidays if you can, as the region is much busier when Portuguese families also come to enjoy it!

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The best hotels in Serra da Estrela

Casas da Lapa

Serra da Estrela (Lapa dos Dinheiros )

A wonderful Portugese country house surrounded by stunning mountain landscape. Contemporary chic rooms and two apartments (sleep 4 each), wonderful pool and sun deck, good table d'hote, and plenty of outdoor activities and wildlife to discover. Perfect for families.

  • Active Holiday - The Serra de Estrela has a lot of wildlife and landscape to explore.
  • Value chic
  • Families
  • Sights nearby - The caves of Moura and Suma.
from $91 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Convento de Belmonte

Serra da Estrela

This hideaway hotel occupies a former medieval monastery on the slopes of the Esperança Mountains in Belmonte. The individually styled guestrooms - named after brothers in the order - are simple yet elegant. Dine al fresco at the hotel's gourmet restaurant after a day out walking.

  • Romantic Break - With charming suites, beautiful countryside views and a great restaurant, book this hotel for your next tranquil romantic break
  • Back to Nature - Set in the spectacular landscape of the Serra da Esperança, book this hotel for an authentic back-to-nature retreat
  • Hideaway - Hidden away in the mountains in a former medieval monastery, book this unique bolt-hole for an unplugged getaway
  • Sights nearby - Take a guided tour of the village of Belmonte, the Jewish Museum and the Old Jewish Quarter through the hotel
from $98 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Madre de Água Hotel Rural

Serra da Estrela

Madre de Água Hotel Rural is situated on a wine, cheese and olive oil producing farm outside Gouveia. It offers chic, modern accommodation, some rooms even feature their own fireplace. Be sure to eat at their excellent restaurant serving regional cuisine! A peaceful and rejuvenating spot.

  • Back to Nature - Madre de Água offers a variety of expediitons and trips for you to fully appreciate the area's natural beauty
  • Country Escape - Forget about all your worries at this tranquil rural spot outside Gouveia
  • Sights nearby - Head into the quaint and historic city of Gouveia, just a five minute drive away
  • Great walks - Go hiking up the Serra de Estrela and take in the fantastic surrounding views
from $126 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
TheVagar Country House

Serra da Estrela (Serra da Estrela)

Set in the serene heart of Central Portugal, this boutique hotel immerses you in the beauty of nature. The design blends rustic charm with modern touches, creating a peaceful escape. Enjoy an infinity pool, sensory trails, and intimate dining. A perfect place to reconnect with yourself.

  • Total relaxation - Unwind in cosy suites with fireplaces, indulge in sensory pathways, and let the infinity pool melt away stress
  • Back to Nature - Immerse yourself in the serene landscapes of Serra da Esperança, with endless nature trails and scenic views
  • Sights nearby - Explore Belmonte’s rich history with a visit to the medieval castle, a landmark offering panoramic vistas
  • Great walks - Reconnect with your senses on tranquil forest trails, with the soothing sounds of nature at every turn
from $151 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia