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2 Available Tour Excursions in Manteigas
This Ebike tour is the best way to get to know the surroundings of Vila de Manteigas and the Zêzere Glacier Valley. During the tour you will be able to enjoy the best views over the Central Massif of Serra da Estrela and discover some of its most beautiful forests. A fun, sustainable way to experience this mountain!
Price: $108.13
Duration: 4 hours
Enjoy the village of Manteigas in the natural park of Serra da Estrela, a haven where nature and culture meet in perfect harmony. Explore the Glacier Valley of the Zêzere River, with stunning landscapes and ancient legends. Follow in the footsteps of the ancient shepherds and contemplate the valley surrounded by forests that transform with the seasons. Discover the Poço do Inferno, a magical waterfall of 10 meters in the Leandres River, and visit emblematic sites such as the Casa da Guarda-Florestal, the Vale do Buraco, the Carvalhal and the Viveiro das Moitas, full of biodiversity. Finish your experience with a handmade snack while breathing the pure mountain air. Return to the starting point of this track. At Manteigas, every track is an adventure and every stop is a unique moment of connection with nature. Come and experience this unforgettable experience! Total distance: 12.3 miles Accumulated positive de-level: 666 m Accumulated negative de-level: 666 m Moderate/High Difficulty (Level 2/3-5 MIDE)
Price: $62.47
Duration: 5 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: EUR
- Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish
- Climate: Mediterranean
- Timezone: Europe/Lisbon
- Population: Approximately 3,600 inhabitants
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn for hiking and outdoor activities, or winter for skiing.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter Portugal visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. Visa on arrival is generally not available. Citizens from countries requiring a visa must apply in advance at a Portuguese consulate or embassy. Electronic visas (e-visas) are not commonly used for Portugal. Passport validity of at least six months is recommended.
About Manteigas
Manteigas is a charming mountain town nestled in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, it offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventure and traditional Portuguese culture. The town is surrounded by rugged peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers. Manteigas is famous for its thermal springs and wellness centers, attracting those seeking relaxation and health benefits. The local architecture reflects a quaint mountain style with stone houses and narrow streets. Visitors can enjoy fresh mountain air, scenic trails, and the tranquility of a small town with rich cultural heritage. Its proximity to the Serra da Estrela ski resort also makes it a popular winter destination. Manteigas stands out for its authentic rural atmosphere combined with opportunities for adventure, making it a compelling choice for travelers looking to explore Portugal’s natural beauty beyond the coast.
Manteigas Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Portugal
- Duration Range: 2-8 hours
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: Mixed Difficulty
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn for hiking and outdoor activities, or winter for skiing. Pack layered clothing suitable for mountain weather, including waterproof gear. Respect local customs by greeting with a polite “Bom dia” and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. The area is generally safe, but standard precautions apply in remote areas. Euros are used for payments; credit cards are accepted in most places, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors.
Average Tour Price: $65
Lowest Price Tour: $45
Highest Price Tour: $250
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Serra da Estrela Natural Park – Portugal’s largest protected area, offering breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and numerous hiking trails. 2. Poço do Inferno Waterfall – A spectacular waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for nature photography and short walks. 3. Thermal Springs of Manteigas – Natural hot springs known for their therapeutic properties, with spa facilities for relaxation. 4. Torre – The highest point in mainland Portugal, accessible by road or hiking, offering panoramic views of the region. 5. Museu do Pão (Bread Museum) – A cultural museum showcasing traditional bread-making techniques and local culinary heritage.
Popular Activities
Visitors to Manteigas can enjoy hiking and trekking on marked trails through the Serra da Estrela mountains, wildlife watching, and photography. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular at nearby ski resorts. The thermal springs provide wellness and spa experiences. Cultural activities include visiting local museums, attending traditional festivals, and exploring the town’s historic architecture. Outdoor enthusiasts can also try mountain biking, fishing in mountain streams, and horseback riding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Manteigas offers traditional Portuguese mountain cuisine with hearty dishes. Signature specialties include "Queijo da Serra" (Serra cheese), a rich sheep’s milk cheese, and "Cabrito Assado" (roast kid goat). Other local favorites are stews made with wild game and chestnuts. Dining customs emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Noteworthy restaurants include rustic mountain inns and family-run taverns where visitors can enjoy authentic flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
Getting Around
Manteigas is accessible by car via regional roads from major cities like Coimbra and Guarda. The nearest train stations are in Guarda and Covilhã, with bus connections to Manteigas. Within the town, walking is the best way to explore due to its compact size. Local taxis are available but limited. Renting a car is recommended for greater flexibility, especially to explore surrounding natural areas. Transportation costs are moderate, with public buses being the most economical option.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn for hiking and outdoor activities, or winter for skiing. Pack layered clothing suitable for mountain weather, including waterproof gear. Respect local customs by greeting with a polite “Bom dia” and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. The area is generally safe, but standard precautions apply in remote areas. Euros are used for payments; credit cards are accepted in most places, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors.
Culture & Customs
Manteigas has a strong rural and mountain culture with traditions linked to agriculture and shepherding. Social customs include warm hospitality and a slower pace of life. Important festivals include the annual Festa da Serra, celebrating local culture with music, dance, and food. Visitors should be respectful of local traditions, avoid loud behavior, and show appreciation for the natural environment. It is customary to greet shopkeepers and locals politely and to try local products as a sign of respect.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..