Walks

The Quinta da Moenda is a great starting point for walks in the surroundings.A short walk to 'our' village Alvôco das Várzeas is an adventure in itself. Follow the river Alvôco through the meadows and along the vegetable gardens into the village. Cross the roman bridge and turn left. After a few hundred metres go left and follow a track through the meadows. You smell nature at its best! You see hard working people who live from what the earth gives them. You will be greeted by friendly farmers who will ask you where you are from. Along the 'levada's' (irrigation canals) you walk back into the village where you enjoy a cup of good Portuguese coffee. Then walk back to your appartment through the fields or alongside the road. We gladly give you information about other walking possibilities in the environment of the Quinta da Moenda during your stay with us. Look at some pictures to have an idea.

The Serra da Estrela is the only region in Portugal to boast a network of marked routes, which cover the whole of the Natural Park. There are three major trails and six alternative routes. Each of these trails takes between three to four days to complete; they are considered overall to be moderately difficult to difficult walking, as there are some steep climbs involved and long distances.But if you want to follow a trail for only one day, starting and ending at the same place, there are two routes for you. The Manteigas-walk starts at the pousada near Manteigas, by following a part of one of the main trails and than making a loop around the plateau by returning via another main trail, which leads you through the Vale do Rossim on the way back.

The Azinheira-walk is in a forgotten corner of the park on the bank of the Beijames River. This beautiful watershed is lined with traditional stone and wood houses, built in a loosely common architectural style that melds perfectly with its surroundings. There is a circular walk around the valley, which goes up to the waterfalls of Poço do Inferno and to the peak of Azinheira (1035m).