Covilha might not be as famous as Lisbon or Porto, but this mountain town offers a wealth of unforgettable tours and experiences. Its proximity to the Serra da Estrela makes it a perfect base for adventures like night walks under the stars or scenic drives with panoramic views. What makes Covilha especially appealing is its combination of natural beauty, local culture, and active pursuits. Whether you’re into hiking, canyoning, or tasting regional cheese, there’s something here that will suit your style.
For travelers craving the thrill of outdoor activities, the Serra da Estrela Canyon and off-road tours offer adrenaline-pumping fun. And if cultural exploration is more your speed, the trips that include visits to PiÃdão or Belmonte reveal the area’s historical charm. The variety of options ensures you’ll find a memorable experience, whether you’re visiting in summer, winter, or shoulder season.
Quick Overview
Covilha’s best tours include nature excursions like breathtaking mountain walks, adventure activities such as canyoning and off-road drives, and cultural trips exploring historic villages and tasting local foods. There’s also a tempting wine, cheese, and food tour for those wanting to indulge in regional flavors. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each experience to help you choose the perfect one.
1. Night walk in the Serra da Estrela with many surprises
Imagine walking through the Serra da Estrela at night, lanterns casting a soft glow on hidden trails, the sky sparkling with stars. This 3.5-hour guided walk offers an unforgettable peek into the mountain’s quiet, mysterious side. The experience is perfect if you love stargazing and want a peaceful escape from the daytime crowds. As you wander, you’ll discover little-known corners and listen to fascinating stories about the mountains’ past.
The tour includes a tasting of homemade cookies with tea or coffee, adding a cozy touch. Participants also receive a free nighttime photo to remember the adventure. Rated 5 out of 5 by eight reviewers, this walk is praised for its magnificent views and the surprises along the trail. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a magical, serene experience with a dash of local flavor and storytelling.
Bottom line: Perfect for night owls and nature lovers who want a peaceful, star-filled adventure with memorable photos and tasty treats.
2. Serra da Estrela: An emblematic walk with breathtaking scenery
For around a full day, this guided walk takes you deep into the heart of Portugal’s highest mountain range. The experience features stops at key viewpoints such as Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais and Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela, where you can snap photos and absorb the stunning vistas. The itinerary includes free time to explore or enjoy the scenery, plus opportunities to taste regional regional food at a local restaurant.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and the expertise of the guides—many are fluent in several languages and passionate about sharing the region’s natural wonders. The breathtaking landscapes and “off-the-beaten-path” viewpoints will appeal to travelers who want an immersive experience. The reviews highlight the breathtaking views, with one visitor noting, “The views were truly stunning, and it was a fantastic way to see the mountains up close.”
Bottom line: Ideal for nature enthusiasts who want a flexible, scenic day out with expert guidance and plenty of photo opportunities.
3. Serra da Estrela Canyoning
If adventure is your thing, canyoning in Serra da Estrela is hard to beat. With this 4-hour tour, you’ll explore crystal-clear waters, rugged landscapes, and lush surroundings. Suitable for beginners and experienced alike, the canyoning route includes abseiling, jumping, sliding, and walking through natural water corridors. The landscapes are truly breathtaking, and the waters are refreshingly cool, especially in summer.
What makes this activity stand out is its emphasis on fun and safety. The low to medium difficulty level means most fit travelers can participate, and the guides are experienced professionals. Many reviews mention the adrenaline rush and how this tour offers a unique way to connect with nature. At just $83 per person, it’s a great value for a full adventure packed with excitement.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking adrenaline, stunning scenery, and a low-stress intro to canyoning.
4. From Covilhã: Torre Serra da Estrela / Manteigas e Belmonte
This 7-hour guided tour is an excellent way to see the highlights of Serra da Estrela and beyond. Starting from Covilha, you’ll visit iconic spots like the Torre, the highest point in Portugal, with panoramic views that stretch for miles. The itinerary includes stops at Manteigas, known for its authentic charm, and Belmonte, a town rich with history.
The tour emphasizes flexibility and local insights, with guides explaining the region’s cultural and natural significance. It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive sightseeing experience with stops for photos, light walks, and cultural visits. Many reviews praise the stunning vistas and the informative guides. Visitors particularly enjoy the visit to Lagoa Comprida and the chance to explore small villages.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a full-day, well-rounded trip that combines natural scenery with cultural highlights.
5. Serra da Estrela – Excursão com degustação de queijo da serra
This 3 to 4-hour tour offers an immersive taste of Serra da Estrela’s natural beauty and local cheese. The highlight is the cheese tasting, which is a treat for food lovers eager to sample the renowned Queijo da Serra. The tour also includes visits to hidden nooks of the mountain, with plenty of scenic views and photo stops.
Excellent value at just over $56 per person, this experience blends nature with culinary delights. It’s perfect if you want to combine a light outdoor adventure with tasting regional specialties. The tour’s focus on local secrets and natural beauty makes it stand out, and it’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Bottom line: A delicious way to explore Serra da Estrela’s landscapes while indulging in regional cheese and local culture.
6. Covilhã: Serra da Estrela and Aldeia de Xisto Piódão Tour
This 7-hour tour takes you from Covilha into the historic village of Piódão, famous for its schist houses and picturesque streets. The journey also covers scenic viewpoints like Miradouro dos Piornos and the highest point in Portugal at the Torre. The trip combines natural scenery, cultural heritage, and gastronomic stops like cheese tasting.
The tour is ideal for history and architecture lovers who want to see traditional schist houses and enjoy authentic local food. It provides a rundown of Serra da Estrela’s cultural landscape with several photo stops and guided insights. Many reviewers mention the charm of Piódão and the stunning views from the viewpoints.
Bottom line: Best suited for those interested in traditional villages, scenic drives, and cultural exploration.
7. From Coimbra: Serra da Estrela Natural Park Day Trip
For those staying in Coimbra, this 6.5-hour day trip offers a chance to visit Serra da Estrela Natural Park. It includes stops at the Tower, where you can see the snow in winter and enjoy panoramic views, plus visits to river beaches like Praia Fluvial de Loriga, famous for its crystal-clear waters. The tour features local commentary on the region’s geography and culture.
Rated for its convenience and comprehensive nature, this trip suits travelers who want to maximize their time and see diverse landscapes. The highlights include the highest mountain in Portugal and beautiful river beaches, perfect for cooling off or taking photos. With a focus on natural beauty and accessibility, it’s ideal for those limited on time but eager to explore.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers in Coimbra seeking a full but manageable day exploring Serra da Estrela’s natural riches.
8. Serra da Estrela: Tour of Natural Highlights
This 3.5-hour van tour from Covilha offers a highlight reel of Serra da Estrela’s most impressive natural sights. The tour visits seven pickup points, making it flexible for various accommodations. Highlights include stops at Penhas de Saúde and Manteigas, along with visits to Serra da Estrela itself.
While the detailed reviews are not provided, this tour is designed for those who want a short, scenic overview of the region’s key viewpoints. The focus is on breathtaking landscapes and easy access to viewpoints, perfect for travelers short on time or with limited mobility.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting a quick, scenic escape with minimal hassle.
9. Dão-Lafões: Wine Food & OffRoad Tour
For a culinary adventure, this 4-hour group tour combines wine tasting, local food, and off-road exploring of the Dão-Lafões region. Up to six people enjoy visiting wine producers and old Moor towers, experiencing the flavors and history of Portugal’s best wine country. The off-road part adds a dash of excitement, perfect for those who love exploring less-traveled paths in a breathtaking landscape.
Rated for its focus on gourmet experiences and adventure, it’s ideal for foodies and outdoor lovers alike. The price reflects the group size, offering good value for a specialized experience that combines gastronomy with active exploration.
Bottom line: Perfect for small groups wanting a luxurious taste of Dão-Lafões’ wine, food, and wild scenery.
How to Choose Your Perfect Covilha Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and energy level. Want a peaceful night under the stars? The Night walk might be best. Looking for a full-day adventure? The Serra da Estrela: An emblematic walk covers everything from viewpoints to local cuisine. For thrill-seekers, the canyoning offers adrenaline and stunning landscapes, while those interested in history and culture will enjoy the Piódão and Belmonte tour.
Budget is also a key factor. The cheese tasting tour offers great value at around $56, whereas the Manteigas and Belmonte tour is more comprehensive but also more expensive. Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Final thoughts
Covilha offers a well-rounded palette of outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and culinary experiences. For lovers of mountain scenery and outdoor activities, the canyoning and Serra da Estrela scenic drives deliver unforgettable sights. If you’re more into local culture and food, the cheese tasting or historic village visits will satisfy your curiosity.
No matter your style, these tours are designed to make your time in Covilha memorable. Be sure to plan and book early—these experiences are popular and fill up quickly, especially in high season. Now, prepare to enjoy a unique blend of natural beauty, tasty treats, and exciting adventures in this charming mountain town.