Serra da Estrela is the name given to the mountain range and range with the highest altitudes in mainland Portugal, constituting the second highest mountain in Portugal (only Pico Mountain in the Azores surpasses it). It is part of the larger mountain range known as the Central System, in the subsystem known as the Montejunto-Estrela mountain range, which runs southwest-northeast from the Montejunto mountain range. The Serra da Estrela is a landscape area integrated into the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, which, after its establishment on July 16, 1976, became the largest protected area on Portuguese soil.

In addition to the snow and extraordinary flora and fauna, travelers are also attracted by the colossal terrain, particularly the Cântaro Magro, as well as the region's rich human, cultural, historical, and gastronomic heritage.

The Serra da Estrela reaches its highest point—1,993m—near Torre. This point forms the border between four parishes: Unhais da Serra (Covilhã), São Pedro (Manteigas), Loriga (Seia), and Alvoco da Serra (Seia). For this reason, the highest point in mainland Portugal is shared by the three municipalities to which these parishes belong: Covilhã, Manteigas, and Seia.

The correct orthometric altitude of Serra da Estrela, at this point and rounded to the nearest meter, is 1,993 meters, according to corrections introduced by measurements taken by the Army Geographic Institute. To complete the 2,000 meters, a 7-meter tower was built.

Snow

While Portugal is typically a country of sun, heat, and beaches, in winter it can also be a country of snow and seasonal sports. Why not make the most of the cold? Both amateurs and professionals, the Central Massif fills this time of year with snow lovers, who invent ways to make it a source of fun. Enjoying a vast blanket of snow is simply magical, especially for those who can't go a winter without experiencing the adrenaline rush of descending the most varied mountains.

In Portugal, the Serra da Estrela is ideal for those looking to start skiing or snowboarding, or for those who want to "relive" the feeling of skiing so close by, as this mountain range is the only place in the country where it's possible to ski, sled, snowboard, or engage in other snow-related activities. There are several slopes with support facilities and even synthetic snow slopes, allowing skiing at any time of year. It's a good idea to say "go outside, come inside!"

The entrance to the Serra da Estrela Natural Park can be reached in about 30 minutes by car from Quinta da Palmeira – Country House Retreat & Spa.