Varanda da Estrela

Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela


This warming restaurant, decked out in wood and stone in classic chalet style, is an inviting spot to feast on authentic mountain food. That means Serra de Estrela's trademark cheese, locally-sourced javali (wild boar) and earthenware bowls of delicious juniper-spiked rice. The restaurant is just off the N339 road through Penhas.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela attractions

1. Ponte Pedonal Penedos Altos

3.15 MILES

This striking footbridge spans the valley east of the old town, connecting the centre with the town's outer suburbs. Zigzagging over the valley floor, the…

2. Jardim Público

3.16 MILES

Commanding fabulous views, the leafy Jardim Público, north of Praça do Município, is a popular local haunt and a pleasant spot for a sunset drink at the…

3. Igreja de Santa Maria

3.23 MILES

In the heart of Covilhã's gritty historic centre, the 16th-century Igreja de Santa Maria is a startling sight. Its facade is entirely clad in blue and…

4. Museu de Lanifícios

3.23 MILES

Covilhã used to be the centre of one of Europe’s biggest wool-producing regions, but stray outside the centre and you’ll see the town’s ghostly mills…

5. Poço do Inferno

4.76 MILES

This waterfall, which descends the steep gorge of Ribeira de Lenadres, is a magnificent spectacle, particularly in spring. To get there from Manteigas,…

6. Burel Factory

5.83 MILES

The burel factory originally opened in 1960 and employed 1000 people at its height (burel is a wool fabric similar to felt). After a decline in the…

7. Museu do Pão

10.63 MILES

This popular museum, set in a huge complex with mill wheels, a restaurant and rustic buildings, celebrates the history of traditional bread making. The…

8. Museu do Brinquedo

10.9 MILES

This museum, housed in a lovely converted mansion, traces the history of Portuguese toys, from the Victorian to the contemporary, providing an interesting…