Location Information

Dramatic gorges, deep scenic valleys, beautiful forests, mountain lakes and crystal clear mountain streams are the backdrop to this dramatic and picturesque region.

The area is dominated by the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal, the Quinta da Estrela. Stretching for 100km the highest point is 1,993 metres above sea level and is the home of Portugal's only ski resort.

The Quinta da Estrela became a "Natural Park" in 1976 and very strict rules concerning future development are in place to protect its heritage and its natural beauty.

Large areas are covered with oak, pine and eucalyptus forests. The mountain streams are wonderfully clean and feed, amongst others, the river valleys of the Zezere, the Alva and the mighty Mondego, the longest river in Portugal.

The valleys are fertile and dotted with villages, whose local economies are still based on the fruits of their labours. Communities form cooperatives to produce wine, cheese, and olive oil which are traded at local markets. Vineyards, fruit and vegetable farms, almond and olive plantations are plentiful and there are still a small number of working watermills grinding corn and wheat.

The larger cities in the area such as Coimbra, once the capital city of Portugal, Guarda, the provincial capital and Viseu, a historic trading centre, are vibrant with lively social scenes and they boast a large number of examples of fabulous Manueline architecture. Major towns such as Seia, Gouveia and Celorico da Beira are steeped in tradition but have all the modern amenities you would expect to find. The well tended public parks, local museums and leisure areas are a testament to the civic pride, evident throughout.

History, particularly the territorial skirmishes with Spain, has left its mark and there are many fine examples of fortified towns, villages and ancient castles that can be visited throughout the region.

The area is being developed into Portugal's centre for outdoor activities. The mountains are a popular destination for sightseers and sports enthusiasts alike and the area features a number of annual national and world sporting events.

Rock climbing, hiking, paragliding, mountain biking motor-cross and skiing are amongst the most popular activities. The mountain streams and rivers offer some of the best trout fishing in Portugal and the many reservoirs are popular for coarse fishing. Horse riding, pony trekking, canoeing, kayaking and sailing add to the growing number of organised club-based outdoor activities.

There has been significant investment in infrastructure throughout the region most notably the A25 motorway which runs from the west coast city of Aveiro to Guarda on the border with Spain. The Quinta da Estrela can now be reached in around 1hour 40 minutes from the new airport at Porto.

The recent announcement that a large dam will be constructed across the river Mondego at Girabolhos will provide an additional boost to the local economy and will provide more opportunities for outdoor activities.

The area has a growing number of good hotels and a wide selection of restaurants, ranging from those serving traditional local recipes to those producing international cuisine.

Future development projects include an 18 hole golf course close to the town of Seia and a large snow dome in Gouveia.