Serra da Estrela
Ride an E-bike in the heart of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. Challenge yourself and reach the highest point of mainland Portugal (2000m), be dazzled by the Glacier Valley of the Zêzere River, and live an unforgettable experience.
The meeting point will be in Lisbon and the trip will be in a comfortable and sanitized Van, or by the intercity train according to your preference and the group choice.
In the historical city of Covilhã, we will stay at a marvelous hotel/accomodation. After a sound night of sleep and a tasty breakfast, we will hit the road.
On our electric bikes, we will cycle up to the mountains 20 km away, where the air is pure and the colors of autumn are stunning. Our E-bikes are top of the range and in perfect working conditions which makes the climb much easier. Our first stop will be at Penhas da Saúde (1500m) for a break, coffee, and bathroom.
We will enjoy the deep silence of the mountain, with breathtaking views over Covão d’Ametade, a hollow of glacial origin, with paradisiac crystal clear water, where the river Zêzere gushes. Serra da Estrela was recently classified as a Global Geopark by UNESCO, thanks to three steep rocks called ‘Pitchers’ overlooking Covão d’Ametade: south is Cântaro Raso; Cântaro Magro in the center and Cântaro Gordo north. We will picnic in a green space of birch trees.
Always surrounded by magnificent views, we will reach the Tower (1993m). A gorgeous location, even without snow. On days without fog, you can even see the sea. We assure you, that day will be twice unforgettable, for the beauty of the landscape and for surpassing yourself.
We will continue cycling to Lagoa Comprida, the largest lake in Serra da Estrela, with crystal clear water surrounded by huge granite blocks.
The last stop will be in the highest village in Portugal, Sabugueiro (1200 m), a break to enjoy the granite houses, the communal oven, drinking spring water directly from the fountain. A land of shepherds and the famous Serra cheese.
Then it will be time to return, stopping from time to time when the view demands it, and enjoy the descent to Covilhã.
At night when lying down with your eyes closed, you will remember this day full of good memories.
The second day will be dedicated to cycling through the impressive Zêzere Glacier Valley, one of the largest in Europe.
Stopover in Manteigas, a village with a long history. A chance to stroll between its churches and houses, nestled in a stunning natural heritage. Possibility to visit the Interpretation Center of the Zêzere Glacier Valley.
The picnic will take place at the Poço do Inferno “Pit of Hell”, a 10-meter high waterfall in a mesmerizing setting.
Then, the ride will continue downhill till Covilhã.
In the evening, you will enjoy our complimentary dinner in a traditional restaurant to try out the local specialties.
Return to Lisbon.
Day 1 – Departure from Lisbon at 18h – Covilhã
Day 2 – Covilhã – Torre – Covão d´Ametade – Lagoa Comprida – Sabugueiro (E-Bike)
Day 3 – Covilhã – Manteigas – Poço do Inferno (E-Bike) – Group dinner (local specialities)
Day 4 – Return to Lisbon
When
Meeting Point
Duration
Included
Helmet
Guide
Water
Accompanying vehicle
Breakfast
3 nights in twin room hotel (accommodation with Clean & Safe stamp)
Lunch / Picnic of Day 3 and 4 (including the tasty Serra cheese, rye bread, heather or rosemary honey, sweet rice or milk cream and the local sausages - alheiras, morcelas, chorizos)
Dinner on Day 4 (regional specialties)
Liability and personal accident insurance
Transfer in a comfortable Van (labelled Clean & Safe)
Price
Observations
Please Indicate specific diets or allergies
We will send you pictures of the electric bikes so you can choose the perfect one for you
Please indicate your weight and height to choose the most comfortable bicycle for your physical structure
Possibility of taking the tour as a private group
MINIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS - 4
Possibility to take the Intercity train - Travel along the Beira Baixa line along the Tagus
Not included:
Dinner on the first night
Lunch on the last day
Drinks during the dinner on the third day