Search hotels in Serra da Estrela, Portugal

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Check out these popular cities in Serra da Estrela

Covilhã

77 hotels

Guarda

57 hotels

Manteigas

58 hotels

Seia

114 hotels

Sabugueiro

47 hotels

Loriga

19 hotels

Gouveia

34 hotels

Stay in Serra da Estrela's best hotels!

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Vila Galé Collection Serra da Estrela

Hotel in Manteigas

Situated in Manteigas, 16 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Vila Galé Collection Serra da Estrela features accommodation with a garden, private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace.

C
Cardoso
From
Netherlands
Amazing location, very peaceful romantic place
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,200 reviews
Price from
US$166.84
1 night, 2 adults

H2otel Congress & Medical SPA

Hotel in Unhais da Serra

This hotel is located in Unhais da Serra, a village tucked away in Serra da Estrela Natural Park. It features a large landscaped pool, and specializes in spa and wellness treatments.

T
Tatiana
From
Ukraine
well this was a great vacation.spa is perfect. treatments are very good! location is amazing! breakfast was perfect! stuff is very kind and nice! definitely will come again and thank you
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,805 reviews
Price from
US$247.17
1 night, 2 adults

Hotel Berne

Hotel in Manteigas

In the Serra da Estrela Mountains, this Manteigas hotel offers guest rooms with balconies overlooking forest landscapes of Serra da Estrela .

A
Alessandra
From
Belgium
The staff is very friendly and helpful. The breakfast is really good and the restaurant of the hotel has good food with affordable prices. The hotel is very well located in the Serra da Estrela, you can reach many different attractions from there. The city fo Manteigas is also very nice. I really recomend it.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,184 reviews
Price from
US$94.16
1 night, 2 adults

Hotel Versatile

Hotel in Guarda

This hotel in Guarda’s centre is located at Portugal’s highest point, at 1000 metres altitude. It has a restaurant overlooking Serra da Estrela.

P
Pedro
From
Portugal
Great Staff, Facilities, Breakfast, Location
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,671 reviews
Price from
US$103.58
1 night, 2 adults

Sport Hotel Gym + SPA

Hotel in Covilhã

Situated in the heart of Covilhã, Sport Hotel Gym + SPA offers air-conditioned rooms with a TV. Facilities include a mini market within the hotel. The Serra da Estrela National Park is only 6 km away....

E
Elisa
From
Italy
The hotel is very clean, comfortable and has everything that one may need. Great position, service and breakfast. Totally recommended.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,443 reviews
Price from
US$76.51
1 night, 2 adults

Vale do Zêzere Hotel

Hotel in Manteigas

Located in Manteigas, within 18 km of Parque Natural Serra da Estrela and less than 1 km of Manteigas Hot Springs, Vale do Zêzere Hotel provides accommodation with a bar and as well as free private...

C
Carmel25
From
Israel
Comfortable and spacious room with a tiny nice balcony. The breakfast buffet was rich and delicious. But the best part was the staff, always helpful and friendly, they really made our visit relaxing and delightful. Thanks for everything!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 807 reviews
Price from
US$76.51
1 night, 2 adults

Quinta do Rio Noémi

Hotel in Guarda

Located in Guarda, 5.6 km from Guarda Castle, Quinta do Rio Noémi provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace.

K
Katherine
From
United Kingdom
Wonderful stay at this beautiful hotel .Host very hospitable and welcoming Definitely be back !
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.7
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 629 reviews
Price from
US$138.89
1 night, 2 adults

Casa das Muralhas

Hotel in Covilhã

Casa das Muralhas features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge and restaurant in Covilhã. Offering a bar, the property is located within 17 km of Parque Natural Serra da Estrela....

I
Irina
From
Romania
Very comfortable, clean and private accomodation in old modernized house. The area is peaceful and quiet. I recommend the place. The staff was welcoming and the breakfast was delicious.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
Superb - What previous guests thought, 508 reviews
Price from
US$158.90
1 night, 2 adults

Casa de São Lourenço - Burel Panorama Hotel - member of Relais & Châteaux

Hotel in Manteigas

Set in Manteigas, 25 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Casa de São Lourenço - Burel Panorama Hotel - member of Relais & Châteaux offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a...

I
Irina
From
Latvia
Marvelous place - the air, the view, the staff, stylish room, full privacy, excellent service!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 338 reviews
Price from
US$339.86
1 night, 2 adults

Madre de Água Hotel Rural de Charme

Hotel in Gouveia

Just a 5-minute drive away from the city of Gouveia, in the slopes of Serra da Estrela Mountain, Madre De Água Hotel Rural de Charme is located in a producing wine, cheese and olive oil farm.

D
Dana
From
Hong Kong
This place is super special. It is in a very rural area and I would recommend having a car. If you need endless entertainment, this is not the place for you. If you like to watch horses roam in an open field, eat delicious local food, enjoy great hospitality and wine...then this might be your jam.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 242 reviews
Price from
US$155.36
1 night, 2 adults
See all 556 hotels in Serra da Estrela

Most booked hotels in Serra da Estrela in the past month

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Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 6,380 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,805 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,121 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,229 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,272 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,443 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,671 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,200 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,356 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,315 reviews

Serra da Estrela's best hotels with breakfast

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 355 reviews

Situated in Serra da Estrela Nature Park’s mountains, this design hotel offers mountain-view rooms with amenities including an LCD TV. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,356 reviews

Located in Sabugueiro, within the natural landscape of Serra da Estrela Natural Park, this 4-star hotel features an à la carte restaurant and a bar.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,626 reviews

Offering an outdoor pool and an indoor pool, Pousada da Serra da Estrela is located in Covilhã. Featuring panoramic views of the surrounding landscape this hotel provides free WiFi access.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 2,424 reviews

Located in the historical centre of Guarda, this hotel is 150 metres from the city’s cathedral. The green areas of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park are a 10-minute drive from the Hotel Santos.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,315 reviews

Just a 10 km from the ski slopes of Serra da Estrela, Solneve offers relaxing accommodation in the centre of Covilhã. Guests can benefit from free Wi-Fi.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,236 reviews

Lusitânia Hotel offers rooms with private balconies, just 10 minutes by car from Guarda’s historic city centre. It offers indoor and outdoor swimming pools and an extensive spa area.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,121 reviews

Located on the outskirts of the historical city of Covilhã, the Hotel Covilhã Dona Maria Affiliated by Meliá, offers stunning views over the Cova da Beira valley and surrounding mountains.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,229 reviews

Santa Eufémia Covilhã Hotel, just recently renewed, offers neatly furnished rooms and free parking just a 5-minute drive from Covilhã centre.

From US$289.54 per night

Budget hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 84 reviews

Featuring a bar, Hotel Covilhã Jardim is set in Covilhã in the Centro region, 18 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela and 20 km from Belmonte Calvário Chapel.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,272 reviews

Puralã - Wool Valley Hotel & SPA offers air-conditioned rooms and a buffet-style breakfast. It features Nature Club and Spa which offer various beauty treatments and massage therapies.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,627 reviews

Superbly located in the Serra da Estrela Mountains with panoramic views over Cova da Beira valley, this mountain resort features a unique architecture with modern décor and an outside pool.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 982 reviews

Situated in Manteigas, 600 metres from Manteigas Hot Springs, Hotel da Vila features rooms with mountain views and free WiFi.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 968 reviews

Hotel Senhora do Espinheiro features a fitness centre, garden, a shared lounge and terrace in Seia.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 376 reviews

Set in Celorico da Beira, 37 km from Mangualde Live Artificial Beach, Hotel Quinta dos Cedros offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar.

From US$153.01 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 838 reviews

Only 5 km from the historic centre of Guarda, Hotel Pombeira is located just off the A25 and A23 Motorways. It offers great-value accommodation in spacious rooms and free private parking.

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 612 reviews

Located in Gouveia’s city center, the Hotel Eurosol Gouveia Hotel gives its guests easy access to the surrounding areas of Serra da Estrela.

Hotels in Serra da Estrela that you can book without a credit card

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
Superb - What previous guests thought, 13 reviews

Set within 43 km of Mangualde Live Artificial Beach and 24 km of Guarda Cathedral, Casas do Durão-Memories House offers rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in Lajeosa.

Hotel Berne

Hotel in Manteigas
No credit card needed
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,184 reviews

In the Serra da Estrela Mountains, this Manteigas hotel offers guest rooms with balconies overlooking forest landscapes of Serra da Estrela .

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 338 reviews

Set in Manteigas, 25 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Casa de São Lourenço - Burel Panorama Hotel - member of Relais & Châteaux offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a...

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.9
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 44 reviews

Set in Seia, 27 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Solar das Tilias - Historic House offers accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and barbecue...

FAQs about hotels in Serra da Estrela

A Place that Touches the Stars

An ideal destination throughout the year, the stunning mountain range of Serra da Estrela is located in central Portugal. This beautiful region is ideal for hiking and paragliding during the summer, and skiing during the winter months.

The protected Serra da Estela Natural Park features striking rivers, rolling hills, imposing mountains, water springs, green valleys and Portugal’s only ski resort. The highest pick of the Portuguese mainland is called Torre and is reachable by car.

Situated in the foothills of Serra de Estrela, the charming village of Linhares has cobbled streets, traditional stone houses and the majestic castle towers of Linhares da Beira. The town of Guarda is the highest in Portugal and home to a gorgeous 14th-century Gothic cathedral. Wander around the small streets, admire the picturesque granite houses and savour regional soft cheese.

Located in the centre of Portugal, the modern city of Covilhã has a variety of shops, restaurants and outdoor activities. The University of Beira Interior is one of the most important in Portugal.

Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the town of Manteigas has a variety of hotels, guest houses and apartments. Booking.com will help you find the right accommodation in the popular destination of Serra da Estrela.

See reviews by guests who stayed at hotels in Serra da Estrela

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Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 69 reviews
The little apartment is actually a house, on two levels, bedroom and bathroom with shower and WC being on the ground level (also having an entrance from outside), upstairs the large space consisting of kitchen, livingroom area with a foldable dinner table. The kitchen is fully equipped, you´ll miss nothing: olive oil, milk, local honey, etc. The washing machine was a great help for us and the house was really lovely. Rosa was lovely, helped us with anything we needed (although we didn´t speak the same language), the locally made breads she gave us were absolutely delicious! When we ran out of breadspread she gave us her own, that´s how nice the locals are there. At the upstairs entrance there´s a little terrace with a table and two chairs, it was also our space where the cats of the vecinity came for the daily food we gave them and kept us company for the breakfasts and dinners we had outdoors. Very polite cats, very beautiful and quiet sitting area. All citrus trees were full of ripe fruit around the house, the Magnolia blooming (15-19.03.24), a dream... There´s one bar close to the accomodation, inside the bar you´ll find the one and only local shop providing the basics (their coffee is very good and the people very friendly and open). It´s a small, quiet and beautiful village with only 90 inhabitants, go visit it and talk to the locals working at the bar in the evenings, they speak great English and will tell you a lot about the history and culture of the area. It´s close to the nature park so you can get anywhere you need by car.
Guest review by
Juha
Finland
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 311 reviews
This rural hotel looks like it has recently been totally renovated, so it adds an old palace charm to high standard modern amenities, like a design passage way between the main building/reception area and the building where the rooms are. The gardens are beautiful and very well kept - there is a rose garden, a hortensia's garden, a wall-garden and the gardens around the open air swimming pool. There is also a tennis court by the swimming pool, all very nicely done. The situation is very peaceful and quiet, overlooking the mountains and farms. The rooms are very spacious and some of them have a nice terrace with access to the gardens. The breakfast was really good, all with freshly made products from the region - cheese, ham, marmelade - and home made bread. We stayed happily for two nights and could have stayed longer to unwind! Bonus: the Mondego river walkways are a half hour drive away, a nice walking trail of 16kms.
Guest review by
Claudia
Netherlands
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,030 reviews
The ambience is relaxed, perfect to recover from work stress. It has a really good family feel. The room was above my expectations as I didn't expect a little kitchen, a little table and chairs to eat at, or the additional bedroom for my daughter. The breakfast is excellent with a lot of choices and variety. The grounds are great for taking a walk, horse riding and swimming. There are adventure activities up in the trees for older kids and young adults. All the staff were exceptionally kind and nice. I particularly appreciated the kindness of the man in charge of horseriding towards my family on the horse rides. I hope to have the opportunity to return.
Guest review by
Elizabeth
Portugal
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 355 reviews
The hotel is very cozy and beautiful, nice spa, rooms are spacious enough and with all comforts. The hotel staff was helpful and attentive to detail, we got a welcome afternoon coffe and snacks which included different types of delicious handmade food and beverages, then welcome drinks before dinner where we were offered Porto wine. The hotel staff took great care of all guests. Amazing hotel, I'd love to go back, very much recommended!
Guest review by
Erica
Sweden
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,184 reviews
The staff is very friendly and helpful. The breakfast is really good and the restaurant of the hotel has good food with affordable prices. The hotel is very well located in the Serra da Estrela, you can reach many different attractions from there. The city fo Manteigas is also very nice. I really recomend it.
Guest review by
Alessandra
Belgium
From US$233.05 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 242 reviews
This place is super special. It is in a very rural area and I would recommend having a car. If you need endless entertainment, this is not the place for you. If you like to watch horses roam in an open field, eat delicious local food, enjoy great hospitality and wine...then this might be your jam.
Guest review by
Dana
Hong Kong
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 873 reviews
Lovely hotel, loved the decor. Helpful, friendly staff. The food at the restaurant was excellent. The buffet breakfast had a good spread, with a good coffee choice. From the room I could see the Serra de Estrela. The hotel is right in center of the town, easy to walk to shops, bars etc.
Guest review by
Michelle
Portugal
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
Good - What previous guests thought, 249 reviews
Stayed with friends riding through Spain, Portugal and France on our motorbikes. Very pleasant overnight stay. Splendid rural location, clean and tidy rooms, friendly and engaging staff, cold beer and decent food too, from a buffet.. would happily return and recommend.
Guest review by
Martin
United Kingdom
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,236 reviews
We loved everything. The size of the room, the service, the amenities. Excellent personell as well. I would only suggest if possible to add vegetables for breakfast. Everything else was perfect.
Guest review by
Dina Moldovan
Portugal
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,805 reviews
well this was a great vacation.spa is perfect. treatments are very good! location is amazing! breakfast was perfect! stuff is very kind and nice! definitely will come again and thank you
Guest review by
Tatiana
Ukraine
From US$182.73 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 370 reviews
Breakfast was great, Location was great, Staff was great, Swimming Pool and Sauna excelent!!! They have a charger for electric cars in their parking lot... so, everything was great! :D
Guest review by
Fabiana
Portugal
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 283 reviews
The entire environment, staff, neighbours, animals, surroundings and it was a very cozy house. The freedom and friendliness and an amazing place to bring your pets.
Guest review by
Daniel_1401
Portugal
From US$1,294.70 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.1
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,222 reviews
If you want to visit the Serra de Estrella this is the best place to stay. Very nice spacious bungalow with good beds, and good cooking facilities.
Guest review by
siep
Netherlands
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
Very good - What previous guests thought, 46 reviews
location in centre of town, restaurants close to property, lovely town, environment pictures and nice
Guest review by
Dusan
United Kingdom
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,627 reviews
Spectacular location friendly staff and excellent food in the restaurant that was not expensive.
Guest review by
Scott
Australia
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 338 reviews
Marvelous place - the air, the view, the staff, stylish room, full privacy, excellent service!
Guest review by
Irina
Latvia
From US$859.21 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 6,380 reviews
The breakfast was very good and the service was great from everyone
Guest review by
peter
United States
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,272 reviews
Location, friendly staff, the breakfast is very good, the pool
Guest review by
Andreia
Luxembourg
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,626 reviews
The view and breakfast are fabulous Relaxing atmosphere
Guest review by
Geoffrey
Ireland
From US$191.85 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,671 reviews
Great Staff, Facilities, Breakfast, Location
Guest review by
Pedro
Portugal

Planning a trip? Get inspired by reviews of cities in Serra da Estrela

10

Fascinating history of wool and textile industry, with...

Fascinating history of wool and textile industry, with museums of the past, factories of the present to visit, and futuristic visions created by the New Hand Lab with its web of international artists and strong commitment to local schools and universities. Covilhã is a wonderful place to stay, the gateway to nature trails and stunning landscapes. Nature lovers should keep away from Torre Serra da Estrela and discover the raw beauty of this huge natural park! Very hospital, generous people. (NB: number 5 below "popular places of Covilhã" fails to include its special features)
Guest review by
Andrea
Portugal
10

Guarda is a beautiful city.

Guarda is a beautiful city. In 1 day I walked to all the major sites and enjoyed the food and atmosphere. Another day would have been ideal. Part of Guarda is exposed to the wind so if you go November December time be prepared with warm clothing.
Guest review by
Michael
Portugal
6.0

Not too much to do in the fall. Quiet city.

Not too much to do in the fall. Quiet city. Pretty city from far views in the mountain, very few places where you can try cheese selections with good wine. The wool factories are a key attraction like Burel. Finding great servings of the Serra da Estrela cheese should be easier.
Guest review by
Daniel
United States
10

Seia is a nice little city with plenty of cultural sites,...

Seia is a nice little city with plenty of cultural sites, restaurants, and shops. In general people are very nice and welcome visitors. Nature surrounding the city are beautiful and there are many short and long hiking trails around.
Guest review by
Nuno
Portugal
8.0

Unhais da Serra is a very small town.

Unhais da Serra is a very small town. It has one outstanding restaurant - As Thermas and another couple of ones that are good options as well. A couple of local shops that carry the delicious cheeses, charcuterie and liquors made in Serra da Estrela. We always stop to replenish or stock - we prefer the tiny mini-market, but the fancier shop has sweatshirts, slippers and interesting items as well. It's the perfect get-away for rest and relaxation. We park the car at the H2otel and do walking to everywhere we need to go over the weekend. I'd say a 3-4 night stay is ideal.
Guest review by
jennie0901
Portugal
10

Beautiful Village with warm welcoming people.

Beautiful Village with warm welcoming people. There you have the Comfort of a small vilage but at the same time you can find a lot of options as for restaurants and grocery. Recommended for couples and families who wish to have a break from Big cities.
Guest review by
Matheus
Portugal
10

Perfect Breakfast with fresh bread in a cloth bag on the...

Perfect Breakfast with fresh bread in a cloth bag on the door and fresh milk in a glass bottle in the fridge. Fresh figs and a bottle of good wine for the evening. Really good beds with high quality bedding. Very beautiful wooden floor and windows in a very beautiful blue. Very quiet residential area. Very nice an functional bathroom. Very attractive furniture. Free parking. The best apartment in three-week trip!!!
Guest review by
Claus
Austria
10

Loriga is such a characterful mountain village with...

Loriga is such a characterful mountain village with everything you need for a short stay. Its location in the Serra da Estrela is perfect for hiking, as well as swimming in its fabulous praia fluvial. It has plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars etc. It's very steep though and much of it is not easily accessible by car. Try O Solar restaurant and also O Vicente...both serve excellent food.
Guest review by
julie
Portugal
10

Covilhã is very interesting to visit. Lots to see.

Covilhã is very interesting to visit. Lots to see. Many restaurants and cafes. Taverna a Laranjinha is one of the best restaurants I have ever eaten in. Staff just fantastic and food excellent. Amazing interesting town.
Guest review by
Rose
Ireland
10

Guarda was our first entry point to Portugal as we drove to...

Guarda was our first entry point to Portugal as we drove to the Algarve. from Spain. Check in was very laid back and easy and we were quickly settled in our apartment at Hotel Santos, a family run establishment. The old and young staff provided a level of unintrusive efficient service that some major hotel groups should learn. This is the highest city in Portugal rising above 1200 metres in the Estrella mountains. The view from our window was breathtaking looking out across the valleys below and inhaling the clean cool evening mountain air. We were surprised to find a really vibrant population of around 39000 inhabitants, many shops, cafes and restaurants in such a small community. Guarda today is an important hub for the region where many roads and railway lines meet, providing excellent transport links in every direction. Guarda as its name suggests was a defense against the Moors in days gone by and has many wonderful sights that are well preserved to this day. We found a busy square very close to the hotel almost devoid of tourists where locals sat for hours just chatting and enjoying the restaurants in the summer heat, ensuring that their way of life wasn't taken over by loud music and the chaos of high density tourism. A small part of the square had become a mini water park where children played with hoses and an improvised slide. We joined the people watching the setting sun while enjoying a light snack and the mandatory beer to accompany it. A very comfortable night and excellent breakfast prepared us for the drive to the Algarve. You cant beat this lifestyle for sheer beauty and relaxation.
Guest review by
Timothy
Jersey