Portugal · 3 days
A typical day starts with breakfast and a look at the trail map. The Serra da Estrela has 375 km of marked routes. Some are gentle valley walks past streams and old villages, and others climb up toward the granite peaks. Hikers, trail runners and cyclists all have plenty to choose from, and the area is good for road, g…
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Portugal · 3 days
A typical day starts with breakfast and a look at the trail map. The Serra da Estrela has 375 km of marked routes. Some are gentle valley walks past streams and old villages, and others climb up toward the granite peaks. Hikers, trail runners and cyclists all have plenty to choose from, and the area is good for road, gravel and mountain biking.
Back at the hotel, the Serenity spa is built from water, stone and wood. There's an outdoor pool, a hammam, a sauna and a massage menu. The fitness centre is there if you'd rather train indoors or keep up a routine while you're away. Most people split their time between the trails in the morning and the spa in the afternoon.
What sets Estrela Serenity apart is the setting and how flexible it is. You aren't signing up for a group schedule. You're staying in a proper mountain hotel with sports and spa facilities on site, inside a protected natural park. The hotel also hosts organised retreats and group events in its own event spaces, including a contemplative hall, so groups can bring their own teacher or programme.
Food is a big part of the stay. Restaurante Terra Verde cooks with fresh, seasonal produce from the region. The Serra da Estrela is known for its cheese, cured meats and hearty mountain cooking. Bar Regadas has a fireplace, a terrace, regional wines and creative cocktails, and both are open to hotel guests and visitors.
There are a few practical extras. All rooms are pet-friendly (a fee applies and you need approval in advance), and some rooms are adapted for pets. There are six EV chargers on site, and charging is free for overnight guests.
In autumn (9 October to 27 November) the hotel runs a long-stay offer. Book 3 or more nights with breakfast and get up to 20% off. It's a good time to see the chestnut and oak forests turn colour and to hike in cooler weather.
- Accommodation in your chosen room type - Breakfast (on the long-stay offer) - Free EV charging for overnight guests - Pet-friendly rooms (fee applies) - Access to the outdoor pool
- Travel to and from Folgosinho - Lunch and dinner unless booked as part of a package - Massages and spa treatments - Drinks at Bar Regadas - Pet fee - Bike hire and guided activities - Travel insurance - Personal expenses