Search hotels in Serra da Estrela, Portugal

Enter your dates and choose from 553 hotels and other places to stay

Check out these popular cities in Serra da Estrela

Covilhã

79 hotels

Guarda

56 hotels

Manteigas

58 hotels

Seia

113 hotels

Sabugueiro

47 hotels

Gouveia

35 hotels

Linhares

8 hotels

Stay in Serra da Estrela's best hotels!

Filter by:

Star rating
Review score

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.

J
Jernej
From
Slovenia
Amazing surroundings around the hotel, with beautiful views from the room as well. The breakfast was delicious, offering plenty of options to choose from—buffet-style on the weekend, while on Monday they took orders for eggs and pancakes. The beds were very comfortable, and we were offered free parking in the garage. The outdoor jacuzzi and indoor saunas were great. The staff at the reception were very welcoming, and the sangria at the hotel bar was delicious.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,182 reviews
Price from
US$164.61
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.

Z
Zeev
From
Israel
mice and facility in the nature. very good base for hiking
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,793 reviews
Price from
US$243.87
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 .

S
Shevchenko
From
Portugal
It was a small and quiet place. we love the restaurant ant the fireplace . The room was ok, it was clean, comfy not big of course but fine. It was very warm even hot at night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,191 reviews
Price from
US$92.90
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, 2,473 reviews
Price from
US$75.48
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.

N
Nina
From
Denmark
Great host, beautiful surroundings and a very relaxing experience
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.7
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 643 reviews
Price from
US$137.03
1 night, 2 adults

Pena D'Água Boutique Hotel & Villas

Hotel in Covilhã

Pena D'Água Boutique Hotel & Villas features a fitness centre, a garden and a sun terrace with swimming pool and buffet breakfast in Covilhã.

B
Bianca
From
Australia
We spent 3 days over Christmas at Pena D’Água and the experience was magical! It was our 2nd time staying and this time we brought our family & puppy to spend Christmas at this lovely hotel. On the first night, my husband couldn’t sleep because of noise from a leak in the bathroom, and the next day we were promptly upgraded to a better room. We had Christmas Eve dinner at the hotel’s restaurant Açafrão, which in our opinion, was better than some Michelin Star meals we have had. The attention to detail, the quality of the food, the service… everything was incredible. The coziness of the hotel and friendliness of the staff is unmatched. The team went above and beyond to ensure our stay was super special. A special thank you to Francisco and Nuno for making our stay so incredibly pleasant. Their professionalism and kindness made all the difference! Also, if you want a relaxing massage during your stay, we highly recommend Margarida, she’s amazing! We will be back to enjoy another stay at this lovely hotel which feels like a home away from home! Thanks so much, Bianca, Cameron & Buddy
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 715 reviews
Price from
US$140.53
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....

f
fernando
From
Portugal
Staff was super friendly, hotel was really well located, room got nice views from town, restaurant got amazing food! If it was warm, the hotel also got a great pool / patio area
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
Superb - What previous guests thought, 508 reviews
Price from
US$156.78
1 night, 2 adults

Casa de São Lourenço - Burel Panorama Hotel - member of Design Hotels

Hotel in Manteigas

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

L
Luz
From
Sweden
The kindness of the staff. They make you feel welcome and well taken care of. The amenities were great and the food delicious. The interior is fabulous. We love the place.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 335 reviews
Price from
US$335.33
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.

P
Patrícia
From
Sweden
The place is lovely, the staff is outstanding! The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful, and the breakfast was superb. It was the second time I stayed here and will come again.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 240 reviews
Price from
US$153.29
1 night, 2 adults

Casas Da Lapa, Nature & Spa Hotel

Hotel in Seia

Situated in Seia, 29 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Casas Da Lapa, Nature & Spa Hotel features accommodation with free bikes, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a...

D
Danielle
From
United Kingdom
We had a wonderful time and feel really lucky to have been able to come here. It was a fantastic location for relaxing, walking and enjoying the facilities. The food is INCREDIBLE, the staff went above and beyond to make our stay special and Beatriz was so kind and helpful!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 667 reviews
Price from
US$261.87
1 night, 2 adults
See all 553 hotels in Serra da Estrela

Most booked hotels in Serra da Estrela in the past month

See all

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 6,377 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,293 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,793 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,193 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,473 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,260 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,181 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,241 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,335 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 864 reviews

Serra da Estrela's best hotels with breakfast

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 667 reviews

Situated in Seia, 29 km from Parque Natural Serra da Estrela, Casas Da Lapa, Nature & Spa Hotel features accommodation with free bikes, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a...

From US$261.87 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 327 reviews

INATEL Linhares da Beira Hotel Rural features a garden, shared lounge, a terrace and bar in Linhares.

From US$91.97 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 354 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.

From US$243.87 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,000 reviews

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

From US$73.16 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,661 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.

From US$173.03 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 2,449 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.

From US$81.29 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,308 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.

From US$84.77 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,241 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.

From US$90.58 per night

Budget hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 85 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.

From US$78.97 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,193 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.

From US$106.84 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,293 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$93.77 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,651 reviews

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.

From US$102.19 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,260 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.

From US$113.81 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 949 reviews

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

From US$81.29 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 532 reviews

Situated in Celorico da Beira, 37 km from Mangualde Live Artificial Beach, Lavanda Hotel Mira Serra features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace.

From US$69.49 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 375 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$87.10 per night

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

See all
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 70 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
From US$174.19 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 6,377 reviews
The ambience and decoration was really beautiful and the staff was exceptionally nice. The food in the restaurant was divine and breakfast had a good variety of food for all tastes. The overall prices outside of the package are adequate too. Everywhere we went in the facilities, it was super cozy and warm even though it was freezing outside.
Guest review by
Ricardo
Portugal
From US$90.58 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,241 reviews
A unique and very luxurious hotel, I must say that they pay attention to the smallest details so that the stay will be perfect. The breakfast was pleasant and rich. The facilities of the hotel, the staff, the atmosphere, the location - are incomparable. Value for money - excellent.
Guest review by
URI
Israel
From US$160.26 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
From US$209.03 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 240 reviews
The place is lovely, the staff is outstanding! The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful, and the breakfast was superb. It was the second time I stayed here and will come again.
Guest review by
Patrícia
Sweden
From US$92.90 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,191 reviews
It was a small and quiet place. we love the restaurant ant the fireplace . The room was ok, it was clean, comfy not big of course but fine. It was very warm even hot at night
Guest review by
Shevchenko
Portugal
From US$335.33 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 335 reviews
The kindness of the staff. They make you feel welcome and well taken care of. The amenities were great and the food delicious. The interior is fabulous. We love the place.
Guest review by
Luz
Sweden
From US$135.83 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,008 reviews
Loved all of it and would go back in a heart beat! Kind staff, and felt like home away from home. A slice of heaven in Seia, with nature all around.
Guest review by
Ann
United States
From US$91.97 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 327 reviews
I really like this place. Unpretentious, good value, caring, authentic staff. Lovely grounds. I like the Chesterfields in the lounge.
Guest review by
George
Portugal
From US$102.19 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,651 reviews
The breakfast was more than adequate. Even the coffee machine. The fresh fruit should be peeled. The location is “car friendly”
Guest review by
Pierre
South Africa
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 45 reviews
location in centre of town, restaurants close to property, lovely town, environment pictures and nice
Guest review by
Dusan
United Kingdom
From US$113.81 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,260 reviews
Location, friendly staff, the breakfast is very good, the pool
Guest review by
Andreia
Luxembourg
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 283 reviews
Nice and elegant place, in a great location in the mountains.
Guest review by
Yonatan Katz
Israel
From US$348.39 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,793 reviews
mice and facility in the nature. very good base for hiking
Guest review by
Zeev
Israel
From US$173.03 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,661 reviews
The view and breakfast are fabulous Relaxing atmosphere
Guest review by
Geoffrey
Ireland
From US$301.94 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.1
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,235 reviews
the place are so beautiful and the staff are so nice
Guest review by
Hector
Spain
From US$82.45 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 864 reviews
Centre location plenty of cafe and restaurants
Guest review by
Joan
Ireland
From US$243.87 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 354 reviews
the location an the style( scandinavian)
Guest review by
Alain
Luxembourg

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 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
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

The town of Linhares is made up almost entirely of old stone...

The town of Linhares is made up almost entirely of old stone houses. Many have been modernised, but they have all kept the lines and façades of the old stone houses, so as to preserve the character of the town. It is a maze of tiny alleys, steps and twists and turns. Every new turn provides a photo op. The Passadiços do Mondego (a 12 km walk along the valley of the River Mondego) is a 30 minute drive away. It is fairly demanding, as at both the beginning and end have long, steep stretches of steps, which are quite challenging and not for those with knee problems. As well as all the little villages in the hills, the town of Gouveia is wrth a visit. And from there you can have a wonderful drive up into the Serra da Estrela. If you want to eat out, be prepared for a drive, as the only restaurant in Linhares is rather on the pricey side.
Guest review by
Richard
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 is a city where history and hospitality intertwine...

Guarda is a city where history and hospitality intertwine beneath the vast Portuguese sky. From the moment of arrival, the warmth and kindness of its people shine, making each encounter memorable. The city’s compact layout is perfect for wandering, though the hills reward every step with breathtaking views. The cathedral stands at Guarda’s heart, with its towers offering sweeping vistas over red rooftops and winding alleys. Nearby, the castle and medieval tower are silent keepers of centuries gone by, each providing a unique perspective of the land below. If time permitted, the wild peaks of Serra da Estrela would beckon nature lovers and hikers with their rugged beauty and scenic trails—a promise for another day. Evenings bring culinary delight: Simple.Guarda offers outstanding Italian cuisine, while charming cafes invite guests to linger over coffee and pastries. Shops and markets bustle with life, from tempting kitchen stores to fragrant flowers and perfectly ripe fruit. The ancient, winding streets—paved with time-worn stones—invite exploration, each turn revealing new surprises like parks, a chocolatier, and inviting squares. Our visit felt all too brief. As we left, Guarda remained with us—a city to savor, to wander, and to remember fondly for its gentle magic and the warmth of its people.
Guest review by
Phyllis