Covilha is a fantastic base for exploring Portugal’s Norte Region, especially if you love nature, outdoor adventures, and authentic local culture. Its proximity to Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest mountain range, makes it an ideal starting point for scenic tours that showcase breathtaking vistas and traditional villages. We especially like the tour that visits the Serra da Estrela and Aldeia de Xisto Piodão because it combines nature, history, and local flavor in one unforgettable day. Think of it as a full immersion into Portugal’s highlands and rural heritage, with plenty of chances to taste regional cheeses and enjoy panoramic views. For more details, check out the Covilhã: Serra da Estrela and Aldeia de Xisto Piodão Tour.
Beyond that, Covilha offers a variety of tours—whether you’re after mountain scenery, cultural insights, or culinary delights—each with its own unique appeal. This guide highlights three top options to help you decide which one fits your interests and schedule best.
1. Covilhã: Serra da Estrela and Aldeia de Xisto Piodão Tour
This full-day experience is a favorite for its rich combination of nature, history, and local culture. Priced at $153 per person for about 7 hours, it offers a comprehensive look at the Serra da Estrela mountain range and the picturesque village of Piódão, which looks like it stepped right out of a nativity scene. The tour kicks off with a short drive from Covilha, leading you to scenic viewpoints like Miradouro Varanda dos Carqueijais, where panoramic views of the mountains unfold.
The itinerary includes multiple photo stops, such as Covão d’Ametade and Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela, along with a guided tour of the highest point in Portugal—the Torre. Here, you’ll enjoy scenery, cheese tasting, and a relaxed coffee break. The highlight is reaching Torre, where the views stretch miles across the mountain peaks. The villages and viewpoints are ideal for photography, and the guided insights bring the area’s history and culture to life.
What makes this tour stand out? It balances active sightseeing—like reaching the Torre—with cultural highlights such as cheese tasting and exploring the schist houses of Piódão. It’s perfect for those who want a deep dive into Serra da Estrela’s natural beauty and traditional villages.
Bottom line: If you want a well-rounded day combining mountain vistas, village charm, and regional food, this is a top pick.
2. Serra da Estrela: Tour of Natural Highlights
For those who simply want to experience the awe-inspiring landscapes of Serra da Estrela without a lengthy schedule, this 3.5-hour van tour offers a fantastic snapshot. Starting from Covilha, it visits key scenic spots like Penhas de São Domingos and Manteigas, along with the mountain’s main attractions. With departure options from seven pickup points, the tour is flexible for different schedules.
This tour is a great choice if you’re interested in breathtaking viewpoints and natural scenery. You’ll explore the region’s most impressive vistas—including the famous Serra da Estrela—and hear about the area’s geology, flora, and fauna from a knowledgeable guide. The itinerary includes stops at Penhas de São Domingos, known for its stunning views, and Manteigas, a charming mountain village with character and history.
One of the biggest advantages? The tour’s shorter duration makes it more manageable if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a less intensive experience. Plus, with multiple pickup options, it’s convenient to fit into your day.
What makes this trip special? It’s all about mountain landscapes in a condensed format, perfect for travelers who want to see the region’s highlights without committing to a full day. The reviews are strong, with a 4.7/5 rating, signaling solid value and enjoyable experiences.
Bottom line: This tour offers a quick yet comprehensive peek at Serra da Estrela’s most impressive natural sights, ideal for travelers wanting a scenic escape.
3. Dão-Lafões: Wine Food & OffRoad Tour
If your idea of a perfect day includes sipping local wines, sampling regional cuisine, and exploring rugged terrain, this small-group tour is just the ticket. With a price of $493 for up to six people and lasting about 4 hours, it’s a more intimate way to experience Portugal’s Dão-Lafões region.
This tour combines visits to local wine producers, where you can learn about the region’s winemaking traditions, with stops at restaurants and old Moorish towers. The highlight is the off-road adventure, which takes you through the wild landscapes and offers a chance to see Portugal’s rural side from a different perspective. The tour emphasizes gastronomy and authentic regional flavors, making it perfect for food and wine lovers eager for a personalized experience.
Expect to taste regional wines, enjoy hearty local dishes, and explore the stunning scenery on off-road tracks. The tour is well-suited for travelers who want a cultural and culinary immersion combined with a touch of adventure.
What makes it stand out? It’s the only tour on this list that combines wine, food, and off-road exploration, making it a well-rounded experience for those seeking both edible and scenic delights. Its small group size ensures a more personal, less hurried day.
Bottom line: At roughly $80 per person, this tour provides a unique blend of gastronomy and landscape, ideal for adventurous foodies and wine enthusiasts.
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and what kind of experience you’re after. If mountain panoramas and traditional villages are your priority, the Covilhã: Serra da Estrela and Aldeia de Xisto Piodão Tour offers a full day of scenic exploration with cultural highlights. For a quick scenic view, the Serra da Estrela: Tour of Natural Highlights is perfect if you’re tight on time but want to see the region’s best vistas. Meanwhile, if you love wine, food, and off-road adventures, the Dão-Lafões: Wine Food & OffRoad Tour caters to those craving a more personalized, culinary, and rugged experience.
Consider your budget and how much time you want to dedicate to Serra da Estrela. The full-day tour immerses you in the mountains and villages, while the shorter options focus on specific highlights. Booking early is advisable, especially for the popular full-day tour, as spots can fill quickly during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Covilha’s diverse tour options make it a prime choice for outdoor lovers, culture seekers, and foodies alike. The Covilhã: Serra da Estrela and Aldeia de Xisto Piodão Tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive experience soaking in mountain views, traditional villages, and regional flavors. For those with limited time, the Serra da Estrela: Tour of Natural Highlights offers a quick but impactful taste of Portugal’s highest peaks. And if culinary adventures and off-road exploration call to you, the Dão-Lafões wine and food tour delivers a memorable day of tasting and rugged scenery.
Whatever option you choose, early booking is your best bet to secure a spot in these popular tours. Each experience provides a different way to enjoy Covilha’s stunning landscapes and cultural richness—so pick the one that fits your interests and schedule, and prepare for a memorable adventure in Portugal’s north.