Embark on an unforgettable journey to Portugal’s highest mountain range, the Serra da Estrela. This 12-hour excursion from Lisbon offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration. Witness breathtaking landscapes, hike through the Zêzere Glacier Valley, and experience the thrill of snow activities. Along the way, you’ll discover the historic Belmonte Castle, enjoying the region’s rich heritage. With comfortable transportation, a specialized guide, and small group sizes, this exceptional day trip promises an unparalleled experience. Prepare to be mesmerized by the natural wonders that await.
Key Points

- A 12-hour excursion from Lisbon to explore Portugal’s highest mountain range, Serra da Estrela, including a hike through the Zêzere Glacier Valley.
- Visit the historic Belmonte Castle with included entrance and enjoy free time for snow activities or relaxation at the Torre viewpoint.
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and a specialized guide are provided, with the option for lunch at a typical restaurant in Serra da Estrela.
- The tour is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, with a flexible booking and generous cancellation policy, and a small group size for personalized attention.
- The meeting point is at HF Fênix Lisboa in Lisbon, and preparation for mountain climate with warm clothing is recommended for the full-day tour.
Tour Overview

This excursion from Lisbon takes travelers to explore the breathtaking Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest mountain range. Priced from $119.63 per person, the 12-hour tour includes transportation, a specialized guide, and entrance to Belmonte Castle.
Offered in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, the tour features flexible booking and a generous cancellation policy. Highlights include hiking in the Zêzere Glacier Valley, experiencing snow in winter, and admiring panoramic views from vantage points like Vale do Rossim and Torre.
With a small group size, travelers can expect personalized attention and comfort throughout the excursion.
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Highlights and Activities

The excursion offers the opportunity to explore Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest point.
Hike through the Zêzere Glacier Valley in Manteigas and marvel at the stunning landscapes.
Tour the historic Belmonte Castle, whose entrance is included.
Experience snow in winter or breathtaking vistas year-round from viewpoints like Vale do Rossim and Torre.
The small group size ensures personalized attention and comfort throughout the journey.
The small group size ensures personalized attention and comfort throughout the journey.
Whether seeking outdoor adventure or culture, this excursion delivers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Portugal’s natural wonder.
Itinerary Details

The excursion begins with a climb up Serra da Estrela, stopping at key viewpoints along the way to take in the breathtaking vistas. At Torre, guests have free time to enjoy snow activities or simply relax and admire the stunning landscapes. Lunch is at a typical restaurant in Serra da Estrela, not included in the tour price. A brief stop in Manteigas allows for scenic views of the Zêzere Glacier Valley. The tour concludes with a visit to historic Belmonte Castle, where entrance is included.
| Activity | Duration | Location |
|———-|———–|———–|
| Climb Serra da Estrela | Variable | Serra da Estrela |
| Snow Activities/Relaxation | Free Time | Torre |
| Lunch | 1 Hour | Serra da Estrela |
| Zêzere Glacier Valley Viewpoint | 30 Minutes | Manteigas |
| Visit Belmonte Castle | 1 Hour | Belmonte |
Inclusions

Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and a specialized guide are provided for the excursion.
Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and a specialized guide are provided for the excursion.
The tour includes:
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Entrance to the historic Belmonte Castle
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Free time to explore Serra da Estrela and the Zêzere Glacier Valley
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Brief stops in the charming towns of Manteigas and Belmonte
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Optional lunch in a local restaurant serving traditional cuisine
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Optional equipment for snow activities, perfect for winter visits
These inclusions ensure a comprehensive and enriching experience as you discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Portugal’s highest mountain range, Serra da Estrela.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point and Preparation
To join the excursion, travelers should meet in front of HF Fênix Lisboa, Praça Marquês de Pombal 8 in Lisbon.
The guide will be identified by a sign with the tour name near the hotel entrance. Guests should come prepared for the mountain climate, bringing warm clothing.
This full-day tour to Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest point, includes plenty of free time for hiking, snow activities, and sightseeing.
With small group sizes, travelers can expect personalized attention and comfort throughout the excursion’s 12-hour duration.
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Exploring Serra Da Estrela

While climbing to the highest point of Portugal, travelers explore the stunning natural landscapes of Serra da Estrela. Along the way, they:
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Marvel at the Zêzere Glacier Valley’s breathtaking vistas
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Admire the snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain
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Discover historic Belmonte Castle and its cultural significance
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Enjoy snow activities like snowshoeing or building snowmen
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Savor local cuisine in a traditional restaurant in the mountains
The journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and culture, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories of this majestic Portuguese destination.
Experiencing Snow and Landscapes

One of the highlights of the Serra da Estrela excursion is the opportunity to experience the region’s renowned snow and breathtaking landscapes.
Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy snow-filled activities like snowball fights or building snowmen.
Even in warmer months, the glacier-carved valleys and rugged peaks offer stunning panoramic views.
Key vantage points like Vale do Rossim and Torre provide a chance to take in the natural beauty.
Whether exploring on foot or simply relaxing, the tour allows travelers to fully enjoy Serra da Estrela’s remarkable visual splendor.
Visiting Belmonte Castle

After exploring the natural landscapes of Serra da Estrela, the tour visits the historic Belmonte Castle.
This medieval fortress offers a glimpse into Portugal’s past:
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Admire the well-preserved castle walls and towers.
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Discover the castle’s role in the Reconquista period.
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Explore the onsite museum showcasing archaeological artifacts.
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Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
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Learn about the life and legacy of the castle’s former inhabitants.
With entrance included, the Belmonte Castle stop provides a captivating cultural interlude amidst the scenic wonders of the Serra da Estrela excursion.
Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, an optional lunch at a local restaurant in Serra da Estrela is available for those who prefer not to pack their own.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?
There is no minimum number of participants required for this tour. The tour operates with small group sizes to provide personalized attention and comfort, regardless of the total number of bookings.
Can I Extend My Stay at Serra Da Estrela After the Tour?
Unfortunately, the tour does not offer the option to extend your stay at Serra da Estrela after the 12-hour excursion. The tour is a pre-planned and time-limited experience, so extending your visit would need to be arranged separately.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for participants of all ages, provided they can comfortably handle the moderate hiking and activities involved. Children are welcome to join the excursion.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
The tour allows for some flexibility to customize the itinerary to suit your interests. You can discuss options with the guide to optimize the experience based on your preferences within the overall tour structure.
The Sum Up
This excursion from Lisbon to Serra da Estrela offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Portugal’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From hiking through the Zêzere Glacier Valley to exploring the historic Belmonte Castle, this well-curated tour provides a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and fascinating insights, all at an affordable price point and with personalized attention guaranteed.
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