iCliGo: Serra da Estrela

Serra da Estrela Portugal

Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain range in continental Portugal. Along with the Serra da Lousã, it forms the westernmost part of the Sistema Central and is also one of the highest ranges in that system. It includes mainland Portugal’s highest point at 1,993 metres (6,539 feet) above mean sea level, although the summit of Mount Pico in the Azores is higher. This point is not a distinct mountain peak but rather the highest point of a plateau, known as Torre (meaning “Tower” in English). Torre is unusual as a summit because it is accessible by a paved road. The peak has a topographic prominence of 1,204 metres (3,950 feet) and its parent peak is Pico Almanzor in Spain. The mountain range, located between the municipalities of Seia, Manteigas, Gouveia, Guarda and Covilhã, is about 100 kilometres (60 miles) long and up to 30 kilometres (19 miles) wide at its broadest point. It is formed from a massive granite ridge that once marked the southern frontier of the country. Today, the mountain range is part of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park and offers skiing opportunities at the ski resort of Loriga, in the municipality of Seia.

Recommended airport

Vila Real (VRL)

Nearby destinations

Serra da Estrela, Portugal

Serra da Estrela Portugal