Covilha is a fantastic base for exploring Portugal’s Serra da Estrela, offering a variety of tours that showcase its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and local flavors. What makes Covilha particularly appealing is its proximity to the mountain range, allowing visitors to experience everything from panoramic viewpoints to adrenaline-pumping activities. We especially appreciate the From Covilhã: Tour Serra da Estrela e Covão d’metade, which combines breathtaking scenery with a taste of regional products—like Serra da Estrela cheese. And for those seeking a more adventurous night, the Night walk in the Serra da Estrela with many surprises offers a magical experience under the stars.
Whether you’re into scenic drives, active outdoor pursuits, or cultural excursions, Covilha has a diverse selection of tours. The options range from half-day off-road adventures to full-day private explorations, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler. Below, we’ve detailed each tour to help you decide which one suits your interests and schedule.
1. From Covilhã: Tour Serra da Estrela e Covão d’metade
At number 1 on our list, this comprehensive 4-hour tour offers a thorough exploration of the Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest mountain range. The trip includes visits to several key viewpoints such as Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais and Miradouro dos Piornos, with plenty of time for photos and soaking in the scenery. The tour also features stops at the Covão d’metade, Europe’s largest glacial valley, and the Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela chapel.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced itinerary, combining natural wonders with local culinary delights, especially the famous Serra da Estrela cheese. The guide’s storytelling adds depth, making the landscape come alive. With a 4.9/5 rating from 17 reviews, travelers rave about the breathtaking views and the guide’s passion. It’s perfect for those wanting an immersive experience without a full-day commitment.
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded, scenic adventure with a focus on regional specialties—ideal if you want a taste of Serra da Estrela’s natural and cultural highlights.
2. Night walk in the Serra da Estrela with many surprises
For around $30, this 3.5-hour evening excursion ranks at the top for its magic and uniqueness. You’ll walk through moonlit trails lit by lanterns, experiencing the tranquility of the mountains after dark. The highlight is stargazing under a clear sky, complemented by a tasting of homemade cookies and warm drinks like tea or coffee.
What makes this experience special is the intimate ambiance and the chance to discover little-known corners with fascinating stories of the mountains. The small group size ensures an authentic, personal experience, and included photos let you remember the night. With a perfect 5-star rating from 8 reviews, travelers find it unforgettable for its peacefulness and stunning night views.
Bottom line: This is a superb choice for night owls and those seeking a peaceful, starry dimension to their Serra da Estrela visit.
3. Serra da Estrela: Private E-Bike Tour with Observatory
At number 3, this 4-hour private e-bike tour offers a relaxed way to explore the mountain’s dense forests and scenic viewpoints. The e-bike makes it accessible even on steeper inclines, and the guide shares stories and traditions of the region along the way. On hot days, you can cool off in the Mondego River, which adds a refreshing element.
What makes this tour stand out is the blend of active exploration with cultural insights, making it suitable for those who want a bit of everything. Reviewers mention the guide’s kindness and the “beautiful landscapes full of contrasts,” with some noting it’s their first mountain biking experience. The inclusion of a visit to the Observatory adds a unique perspective on the region’s astronomy.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want a personalized, scenic ride without the fatigue of a full-day adventure.
4. From Covilhã: Serra da Estrela Guided Tour with Lunch
This 4-hour guided tour takes you deep into Serra da Estrela, including visits to iconic sites like Torre, the highest point in Portugal. The itinerary features a delicious local lunch and stops at key viewpoints such as Piornos and Nave Santo António. The tour also includes visits to the Barragem Covão do Ferro and Poio do Judeu.
What makes this tour appealing is the combination of natural beauty, cultural sites, and regional cuisine, offering great value at $131 per person. The guide’s expertise and the opportunity to enjoy a traditional restaurant meal make it a well-rounded experience. Reviewers appreciate the stunning views and the relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, culture-rich day with good food and spectacular scenery.
5. Serra da Estrela – Half-day off-road tour with cheese tasting
Ranking at number 5, this half-day adventure uses a 4×4 jeep to explore off the beaten paths of Serra da Estrela. You’ll ride across snowy peaks and scenic mountain trails, with stops to appreciate the landscape’s grandeur. The highlight is sampling regional cheese, renowned for its quality and flavor.
The tour’s strength lies in its off-road element, appealing to travelers craving a more rugged, authentic experience. The local guide ensures safe navigation and shares stories of the area’s natural and cultural richness. It’s especially good for those interested in nature and gastronomy.
Bottom line: A fantastic choice for adventure seekers wanting a guided off-road ride paired with regional cheese.
6. Serra da Estrela: An emblematic walk with breathtaking scenery
This full-day experience offers a scenic walk through Portugal’s most remarkable landscapes. Led by multilingual guides, it combines visits to Miradouro da Varanda dos Carqueijais and Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela, with free time in Serra da Estrela to explore on your own.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and the focus on a family-friendly atmosphere. Travelers mention the guides’ passion and the opportunity to appreciate the region’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for those who want a deeper connection with the landscape without strenuous activity.
Bottom line: Ideal for families or travelers seeking a leisurely, scenic route with local insights.
7. Serra da Estrela Canyoning
Number 7 on our list, this 4-hour canyoning trip offers a splashy, adrenaline-filled way to experience the mountain’s crystal-clear waters and rugged terrain. Suitable for beginners or those with some experience, this activity includes abseiling, jumping, sliding, and walking in nature’s own water park.
The breathtaking landscapes and low to medium difficulty make it accessible yet exciting. Tour guides emphasize safety and fun, making it a popular choice for active travelers who want to add some adventure to their trip.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure lovers eager to try canyoning in a scenic, safe environment.
8. From Covilhã: Torre Serra da Estrela / Manteigas e Belmonte
For around $305, this 7-hour guided tour covers the highest point in Portugal at Torre and visits historic towns like Manteigas and Belmonte. You’ll enjoy panoramic views, explore Manteigas’ charming streets, and learn about Belmonte’s historical heritage, including Pedro Álvares Cabral’s birthplace.
The tour’s highlight is the incredible viewpoints from the top of the tower and its cultural stops. Reviewers praise the extensive itinerary and the guide’s knowledge, making it suitable for those interested in both natural scenery and history.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a full-day, culturally rich exploration with impressive vistas.
9. Tour Privado 3 Aldeias 1 dia Belmonte Sortelha e Sabugal
This 6-8 hour private tour takes you to Belmonte, famous for its historical sites, and the well-preserved Sortelha, a village that looks like a real-life postcard. The tour also includes a visit to Sabugal, with its medieval castle and scenic views.
The personalized approach allows for a flexible itinerary, and reviews note how the guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience. It’s suitable for those wanting to see hidden historic villages and authentic rural landscapes at their own pace.
Bottom line: Ideal for history enthusiasts or travelers seeking an intimate, customized exploration of Portugal’s interior.
10. Serra da Estrela – Excursão com degustação de queijo da serra
For about $56, this 3-4 hour tour offers a quick immersion into the mountain’s natural beauty and cheese tasting. The trip includes visits to key sites and plenty of opportunities to enjoy regional flavors.
What makes it appealing is its short duration, making it perfect for travelers with limited time. The tasting is a highlight, giving a delicious taste of Serra da Estrela’s culinary fame.
Bottom line: Great for a concise, tasty introduction to the region’s landscape and local food.
11. From Covilhã: Serra da Estrela and Covão d’mede Tour
This 2-3 hour tour offers a quick overview of Serra da Estrela’s most iconic spots, including Penhas da Saúde and the Covão d’Mede valley. It’s suited for travelers short on time but eager to see key viewpoints and experience the mountain’s atmosphere.
The itinerary emphasizes scenic drives and photo opportunities, with reviews noting the spectacular views and friendly guide. It’s perfect for those wanting a snapshot of the region without a full-day commitment.
Bottom line: An efficient option for a quick but memorable Serra experience.
12. Covilhã: Serra da Estrela and Aldeia de Xisto Piodã
This 7-hour tour combines the natural beauty of Serra da Estrela with a visit to the historic village of Piódão, famous for its schist houses. The trip includes scenic viewpoints like Miradouro Varanda dos Carqueijais and a visit to the highest point in Portugal.
It’s especially suited for those interested in historic architecture and panoramic views. The guided visit enhances understanding of the region’s heritage, and reviews highlight the authenticity and beauty of Piódão.
Bottom line: Excellent for history and architecture lovers who want a full-day experience.
$153 per person
13. Dão-Lafões: Wine Food & OffRoad Tour
This private 4-hour group tour explores Dão-Lafões, known for its excellent wines and gastronomy. The trip includes visits to local wineries, restaurants, and old Moorish towers, with a focus on off-road adventures.
While pricier at around $493 per group, the tour offers an immersive taste of regional culture and natural beauty. It’s perfect for wine lovers and those wanting a more luxurious, personalized experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for connoisseurs and travelers seeking a deep dive into local food and wine with a hint of adventure.
$493 per group up to 6
14. Serra da Estrela: Tour of Natural Highlights
Finally, this 3.5-hour van tour covers the main natural highlights, including Penhas de Sao Domingos, Manteigas, and Serra da Estrela viewpoints. It’s scheduled flexibly from various pickup points, making it convenient.
Reviewers mention the breathtaking landscapes and well-organized itinerary, making it a reliable way to see the region’s top spots comfortably.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting an overview of Serra’s natural beauty without strenuous activity.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Covilha
Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you love scenery and local food, the From Covilhã: Tour Serra da Estrela e Covão d’metade offers a complete day of highlights. For adventure lovers, the Canyoning or off-road jeep tours are exciting options. If you prefer cultural exploration, the Private 3 Aldeias Tour provides a deep dive into Portugal’s historic villages.
Consider your fitness level and time constraints—a short night walk is perfect if you want a relaxed yet memorable experience. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons or on weekends, to secure your spot in these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Covilha offers a broad array of tours that cater to different preferences, whether you’re after adrenaline, culture, or simply panoramic views. The scenic drives, combined with opportunities for gastronomy and outdoor fun, create a compelling reason to explore the Serra da Estrela. For a full-day adventure, the Serra da Estrela Guided Tour with Lunch is a fantastic choice. If you’re craving something more active, the canyoning or e-bike tours could be just what you need. Meanwhile, the night walk offers an enchanting way to see the mountains from a completely different perspective.
Whatever your travel style, Covilha’s tours promise an authentic taste of Portugal’s natural beauty and warm local culture. Don’t wait—book your preferred experience early to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable adventures.