Search hotels in Serra da Estrela, Portugal

Enter your dates and choose from 555 hotels and other places to stay

Check out these popular cities in Serra da Estrela

Covilhã

78 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!

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.

T
Toms
From
Latvia
Very kind staff Very nice place Restaurant was great
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,207 reviews
Price from
US$166.23
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 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,795 reviews
Price from
US$246.27
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 .

B
Beverly
From
United Kingdom
My husband and I had a 3 night stay at the Hotel Berne.whilst on a motorbike tour of the area. We found the hotel spotlessly clean with exceptionally hardworking friendly staff, excellent restaurant, and 5 star swimming pool I would definitely recommend .
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,186 reviews
Price from
US$93.82
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
Phiraksa
From
Switzerland
I had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The staff were super friendly and welcoming, always ready to help with a smile. Every request I had was handled quickly and efficiently, which made my experience even more enjoyable. I will definitely be coming back on my next trip, highly recommended 😊
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,676 reviews
Price from
US$103.20
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....

A
Anette
From
Sweden
Very nice hotel. Nice view over the city. Good price. Superb breakfast. We always come back to this hotel when we travel to Algarve. Perfect stop after a long days travel through France and Spain
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,442 reviews
Price from
US$76.23
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, 809 reviews
Price from
US$76.23
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.

A
Andrea Zeno
From
Portugal
Hospitality, comfort and attention to details, simplicity, sophistication, quality.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.7
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 629 reviews
Price from
US$138.38
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....

A
Adriënne
From
Netherlands
Lovely staff and a great room! We did some hikes and on the days that it rained the free Netflix was good to have. The town itself is cosy and has a relaxed atmosphere.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
Superb - What previous guests thought, 507 reviews
Price from
US$158.31
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$338.62
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, 242 reviews
Price from
US$175.90
1 night, 2 adults
See all 555 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, 6,383 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,801 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,123 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,231 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,276 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,442 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,676 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 2,207 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,358 reviews

Popular with guests booking hotels in Serra da Estrela

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

Serra da Estrela's best hotels with breakfast

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,234 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$91.47 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,123 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$110.23 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 5,231 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$94.70 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,676 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$103.20 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,635 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.

From US$109.06 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 6,383 reviews

Located just a 10-minute drive from Serra da Estrela Ski Resort, the Luna Hotel Serra da Estrela provides a ski school and year-round outdoor sporting activities.

From US$164.18 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 718 reviews

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

From US$186.67 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 980 reviews

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

From US$76.23 per night

Budget hotels in Serra da Estrela

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 971 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$105.54 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 840 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.

From US$97.37 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 613 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.

From US$79.10 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 874 reviews

Hotel Eurosol Seia Camelo occupies a prime location in Seia’s city center, being a part of Serra da Estrela Nature Reserve.

From US$85.61 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
Good - What previous guests thought, 536 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$66.05 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,801 reviews

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.

From US$340.08 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,186 reviews

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

From US$93.82 per night

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

Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 809 reviews

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...

From US$70.36 per night
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...

From US$421.12 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 657 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$264.44 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 358 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$258.58 per night
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...

Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,358 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.

From US$105.54 per night
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.

From US$151.28 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,276 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$103.20 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, 284 reviews
Communications and guidance was excellent, and in English, the staff were amazing and super friendly. We were in a studio but upon arrival we were upgraded to the house as it was available, and they said because it has more room for you. House was spotless, modern and immaculately kept, we had one of the two bedrooms available. The house was called Ti Manel and had a lovely view over the rest of the guest houses and the hill. We went for a 3 hour hike straight out of the front door along a rabble road and through the hills. The views from the top of the hills was amazing, and as it was spring, flowers were in bloom and the air was lovely scented and fresh. Each morning we were provided fresh bread rolls hanging at the door. We used the typical Portuguese grill to cook steaks. It felt very idyllic! An exceptional place to stay. Seia is only a 9 minute drive away for shopping and dining or strolling and enjoying an icecream.
Guest review by
Leon
Australia
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.5
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 68 reviews
Lovely location with a charming little house that has everything you need, and the bed was very comfortable. The sunset is truly something special. Check-in was straightforward and the owner was wonderfully kind, even though she did not speak any English. There is a small car park next to the church about five minutes’ walk from the house, though I would recommend arriving in a small car as the space is rather tight. The owner’s cousin runs a fantastic restaurant called Guarda-Rios, definitely worth a visit!
Guest review by
Mariam
Austria
From US$304.90 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.1
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,223 reviews
A fantastic place to stay for a night or two on top of the mountains to get away from it all. The chalet was great, clean, slept really well, and had everything we needed, aircon was a welcomed relief in the 40 degree heat. Particularly enjoyed the buffet restaurant, with a fantastic selection of food and the service was really nice.
Guest review by
Martin Cropper
United Kingdom
From US$103.20 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,676 reviews
I had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The staff were super friendly and welcoming, always ready to help with a smile. Every request I had was handled quickly and efficiently, which made my experience even more enjoyable. I will definitely be coming back on my next trip, highly recommended 😊
Guest review by
Phiraksa
Switzerland
From US$93.82 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,186 reviews
My husband and I had a 3 night stay at the Hotel Berne.whilst on a motorbike tour of the area. We found the hotel spotlessly clean with exceptionally hardworking friendly staff, excellent restaurant, and 5 star swimming pool I would definitely recommend .
Guest review by
Beverly
United Kingdom
From US$164.18 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 6,383 reviews
Specious hotel with lots of corners, small areas to sit, nice drawings and pictures. The staff engagement is exceptional in every place of the hotel. Excellent breakfast, specious room, comfy bed. Nice bar where you can enjoy the evening.
Guest review by
Radek
Poland
From US$91.47 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,234 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
From US$92.88 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 313 reviews
This is one of the most beautiful places we ever stayed in, a true masterpiece of renovation. The rooms, the public areas and the gardens are amazing. The staff was very friendly and helpful.
Guest review by
Prath
Israel
From US$187.63 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 242 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$103.20 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 2,276 reviews
Ambience, thoughtfulness, environment. Staff goes extra mile to ensure they do what we needed / want, including restaurant staff.
Guest review by
Gold
Singapore
From US$100.75 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,030 reviews
I like the surrounding, the peace and tranquility. Amazing breakfast and the staff are so friendly, nothing is too much.
Guest review by
MARIA
United Kingdom
From US$258.58 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
Superb - What previous guests thought, 358 reviews
Staff very friendly, and made all kinds of arrangement (late check out, etc). Design of the hotel is very beautiful.
Guest review by
Pierre-Victor
France
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
From US$109.06 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.0
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,635 reviews
Spectacular location friendly staff and excellent food in the restaurant that was not expensive.
Guest review by
Scott
Australia
From US$421.12 per night
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$340.08 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,801 reviews
mice and facility in the nature. very good base for hiking
Guest review by
Zeev
Israel
From US$151.04 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 370 reviews
It is wonderful hotel, everything is excellent.
Guest review by
Dorit
Israel
From US$85.61 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 874 reviews
Everything. Location, room, breakfast
Guest review by
Mordehai
Israel
From US$151.28 per night
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,626 reviews
Beautiful building. Lovely staff .
Guest review by
Vivienne
United Kingdom

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
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
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

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