Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Covilhã, Portugal

This mountain town is located only a few kilometers from the highest point in mainland Portugal. Visitors flock here in winter for one of Portugal’s exclusive ski resorts, and in summer to admire the granite peaks, lakes, and hiking in the forest.

In Covilhã, it is intriguing to observe how the town has evolved to accommodate its challenging topography, featuring a panoramic elevator, funicular trains, and the remarkable Ponte da Ribeira da Carpinteira pedestrian bridge for convenient movement. The town is deeply rooted in tradition, as evidenced by a prominent museum that chronicles its wool industry, which sustained Covilhã for nearly 300 years until the 1900s.

Let us explore the most remarkable attractions in Covilhã:

1. Museu de Lanifícios

Covilhã has engaged in wool spinning and weaving since the 1680s, a legacy proudly exhibited in two former factories in the town: Fábrica de Panos da Covilhã and Fábrica Real Veiga.

The first site addresses the industry’s history in the 18th century, while the latter showcases developments from the 19th and 20th centuries.

The visit to Fábrica de Panos begins with an informative video detailing the intricacies of Covilhã’s wool trade.

Exhibits in both locations include antique looms, both manual and mechanical, tools from various periods, and a diverse collection of textile products manufactured in the town such as yarn, garments, and samples of fabric.

2. Funicular de Santo André

Prior to the introduction of this funicular train in 2013, traversing the incline in the southern part of Covilhã was rather cumbersome.

The sole access route to the town center was via winding streets by vehicle.

In recent years, the town has invested in a lift and two funiculars to promote foot traffic to the town center rather than reliance on automobiles.

This complimentary funicular ascends 90 meters along the slope, and a parallel stairway, the Escada de Santo André, comprises 162 steps.

3. Elevador do Parque da Goldra

Introduced in September 2013 as part of Covilhã’s mobility initiative, this elevator is another delightful attraction worth visiting for its panoramic views.

The lift connects Parque da Goldra with Rua Avila and Bulama, simplifying access to the university on foot.

The run is only 40 meters long but features an incline of 32 degrees, accommodating 11 passengers at a time.

A viewpoint at the upper platform includes benches to enjoy the scenic mountain landscape.

4. Ponte da Ribeira da Carpinteira

This stunning bridge links the town center to the eastern Penedos Altos area.

Construction began in 2003 and was completed six years later at a cost of €3 million.

Designed by Lisbon-based minimalist João Luis Carrilho da Graça, the bridge spirals elegantly 50 meters over the Carpinteira Valley, extending over 200 meters in total.

A daytime walk offers stunning views of Covilhã, Serra da Estrela, and Cova da Beira, while at night the bridge illuminates with two long strips of light along the walkway.

5. Igreja de Santa Maria

It appears as though all roads in Covilhã converge at this significant 16th-century church.

This church rivals some of the most beautiful in Portugal, despite much of its current appearance being relatively recent.

In the 19th century, the church underwent renovations in a historical Baroque style, resulting in the alcove housing the Virgin Mary and the grand pediments above its windows.

The most recent alteration, which makes the church particularly distinctive, involves the addition of blue azulejo panels that narrate the life of the Virgin, installed no more than 20 years ago.

6. Museu de Arte Sacra

Covilhã’s newest museum, inaugurated in 2011, is located in a historic mansion at the town’s heart.

In collaboration, the Guarda Diocese and the Covilhã municipality have assembled over 600 religious artifacts sourced from dissolved monasteries and churches within the region.

The collection features ecclesiastical vestments, crucifixes, statues, books, rare manuscripts, altars, furniture, and paintings, spanning from the 12th to the 20th century.

For those curious about the symbolism found in Catholic churches, there is a replica of a church on the top floor, with explanatory panels clarifying the intricate symbols displayed therein.

7. Museu do Queijo

In the village of Pêraboa, just a few kilometers from Covilhã, visitors can discover everything they need to know about Serra da Estrela cheese.

Every aspect is covered, from the breed of sheep to how it was brought to the region from Spain and Portugal, alongside the shepherds and Estrela mountain dogs that have herded them for centuries.

Notably, Serra da Estrela cheese is unique as it is made with sheep’s milk that is curdled using a specific local thistle instead of traditional rennet. After learning about the production process, visitors will have the opportunity to taste a sample or two.

8. Portas do Sol

Until the 18th century, Covilhã was protected by a grand castle constructed in the 11th century, which faced attacks from Moorish and Spanish forces across the ensuing centuries.

The castle walls were partially dismantled during construction projects and virtually destroyed by the earthquake of 1755.

Nevertheless, remnants can still be seen in the scenic Portas do Sol area located in the western part of the town.

In this charming old neighborhood, visitors can observe the buttresses supporting buildings constructed directly on the bare rock of the hillside.

There are numerous viewpoints to admire the mountain scenery, while several newer structures display striking murals commissioned by the town, complete with informative plaques.

9. Praça do Município

The central square of the town is the perfect spot to learn about Pêro da Covilhã.

This renowned 15th and 16th century explorer, diplomat, and spy of the Age of Discovery made historical voyages to India (before Vasco da Gama) and Ethiopia.

A statue honoring Pêro stands prominently before the town hall, accompanied by a large polished granite panel detailing his travels.

The older structures surrounding the square feature arcades, making it an inviting area to explore the neighboring streets, which were once part of Covilhã’s Jewish quarter, adorned with more innovative street art.

10. Igreja da Misericórdia

This 17th-century church warrants a moment of your attention when passing by.

Constructed in a Mannerist style, it appears slightly more reserved than the Church of Santa Maria but has also undergone significant restorations in the 19th century.

Notable features on the façade include sculptures of the Three Virtues: Faith, Hope, and Charity.

Interior decoration is relatively understated, showcasing beautifully patterned tiles at the lower wall levels and a spectacular fresco that dominates the barrel vault ceiling.

11. Senhora da Boa Estrela

If the traditional cheese and wool industries have piqued your interest, you may find inspiration in this shrine located at an altitude of 1,850 meters, near the highest point in Serra da Estrela.

This statue of Mary, hewn from a massive granite boulder, represents Senhora da Boa Estrela, the patron saint of the region’s shepherds.

The relief measures eight meters in height and was sculpted in 1946. It can be accessed via the breathtaking N339 road, which winds into the natural park west of Covilhã.

12. Centro Interpretativo da Cereja

Having explored Covilhã’s wool and cheese traditions, there exists an additional local industry to discover.

During a springtime stroll around the town’s outskirts, one can witness the stunning cherry blossoms that dominate the area.

This small museum located southeast of the town is dedicated to cherries and features multimedia displays and interactive activities illustrating the fruit’s history and local uses.

Visitors can also sample local products such as cherry liqueur, cherry wine, cherry jam, and candies, with an opportunity to purchase items that appeal to their palate.

13. Torre

The N339 will also guide you to the highest point in mainland Portugal, located 20 kilometers west of Covilhã at just below 2,000 meters above sea level.

The remarkable feature of this elevated site is that one does not need to leave their vehicle to reach the summit, as the road leads directly there.

On a clear summer day, visibility allows you to see as far as the Atlantic Ocean and the resort town of Figueira da Foz.

The highest point is denoted by the Torre, a triangulation pillar, alongside a weather station and a ski lift.

14. Vila do Paul

An essential day trip from Covilhã involves visiting this quaint town situated about 20 kilometers to the southwest, which has much to captivate visitors.

The vistas of Serra da Estrela are simply breathtaking, especially during winter and early spring when snow caps the mountains.

In summer, numerous picturesque spots abound near the town, such as a natural waterfall cascading into a clear pool just five minutes from the center.

The town’s architecture is also charming, featuring a beautifully elaborate Baroque church and traditional granite houses. Interestingly, many houses lack chimneys, as the attics served as smokehouses for cured sausages.

15. Winter Sport

Portugal may not be the first country that comes to mind for winter sports; however, the high altitude of Estância de Ski Serra da Estrela ensures substantial snow coverage for four to five months of the year, extending until mid-April.

Nine marked ski runs are available, primarily suitable for experienced skiers, along with a few green and blue trails.

Adventurous visitors can enjoy off-piste options, with eight challenging red runs available.

All standard amenities are offered, including a ski and snowboard school, three snow parks, and equipment rentals for activities such as tubing and snowshoeing.