Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
also catch a glimpse of miniature high- altitude frogs, mountain geckos or rare birds such
as the peregrine falcon, eagle owl and black-shouldered kite.
The flora, too, is interesting. Several of the park's plants have been put in the list of en-
dangered or vulnerable species due to their popularity as medicinal remedies, including
mountain thrift
(Armeria transmontana),
great yellow gentian
(Gentiana lutea)
and juni-
per
(Juniperus communis)
.
Walking
Crisp air and immense vistas make this a trekking paradise. In part because of limited in-
frastructure, surprisingly few people get off the main roads. Even in summer, walkers will
generally feel they have the park to themselves.
While still very chilly and possibly damp, late April has the hillsides bright with wild-
flowers. The weather is finest from May to October. Winter is harsh, with snow at the
higher elevations from November or December to April or May.
Whenever you come, be prepared for extremes: scorching summer days give way to
freezing nights, and chilling rainstorms blow through with little warning. Mist is a big
hazard not only because it obscures walking routes and landmarks, but because it can also
stealthily chill you to the point of hypothermia.
There are three main 'official' routes through the park, as well as branches and alternat-
ive trails. The TSE1 runs the length of the park (about 90km) and is the easiest to follow,
taking in every kind of terrain, including the summit of Torre. TSE2 and TSE3 (both
around 80km) run respectively along the western and eastern slopes. All of the trails pass
through towns and villages, each of which offers some accommodation. Many of the
finest walks start around Manteigas. Other good routes head off the N339 south of
Sabugueiro - the day walks along Lagoa Comprida or to Covão do Lagoacho are worth-
while at any time of year.
By far the best resource is Centro de Interpretaçaõ da Serra da Estrela in Seia. Multilin-
gual staff here are experts on hiking in the Serra and are goldmines of route information.
They'll give you personalised advice and can also organise guided hikes.
Within a zone of special protection, camping and fires are strictly prohibited except at
designated sites, all of which are on the main trails.
Skiing
The ski season typically runs from January to March, with best conditions in February.
