Covão d'Ametade
A breathtaking glacial valley in Serra da Estrela, home to the Zêzere River's source, offering stunning landscapes and hiking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy views
Covão d'Ametade
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking glacial valley in Serra da Estrela, home to the Zêzere River's source, offering stunning landscapes and hiking.
"Wonderful place! Go during the week. The road from Manteigas takes you more than half an hour because of the waiting in traffic stops."
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road from Manteigas has traffic stops; allow extra time. :car:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Terrain can be uneven; not ideal for those with mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Glacial Valley
The main amphitheater
A breathtaking ancient glacial lake, now a unique ecosystem surrounded by majestic mountains.
Zêzere River Source
Near the picnic area
Witness the origin of the Zêzere River emerging from the rocks, a truly natural spectacle.
Autumn Colors
Throughout the valley
Experience a magical transformation with vibrant fall foliage painting the landscape in warm hues.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road from Manteigas has traffic stops; allow extra time. :car:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Terrain can be uneven; not ideal for those with mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal in the lovely park with picnic tables. :sandwich:
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during daylight for the best light and stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road from Manteigas has traffic stops; allow extra time. :car:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Terrain can be uneven; not ideal for those with mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal in the lovely park with picnic tables. :sandwich:
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during daylight for the best light and stunning photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Trails
Start your hike on the PR5 - Rota do Maciço Central.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Covão d'Ametade for its stunning natural beauty, describing it as a peaceful and wonderful place to visit. The glacial valley, river source, and scenic hiking trails are major highlights. Some note that the road can be congested and the area can be neglected, but the overall experience is highly recommended for its picturesque charm. +2
"Please keep it clean! Worth the visit, nice and peaceful place to stop. Do recommend it! Super nice."
Victor Lopes
"Wonderful place! Go during the week. The road from Manteigas takes you more than half an hour because of the waiting in traffic stops. At least you have a beautiful view and can leave the car as you wait about 10 minutes between each stop. Go with sunlight. Early morning, until 4 in the afternoon..."
Helena Silva
"Great natural camping area althouth neglected and not looked after. The source of the Zêzere river, awesome to see water coming from the rocks onto a stream. Lots of natural trees, green areas with great views and the mountanous landscape with boulders dotted throughout. For those adventurous enough, a challenging climb up the rocks. Not suitable for those with mobility difficulty. Amazing picture"
Cristina Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive from Manteigas to Covão d'Ametade takes over half an hour due to traffic stops for managing vehicle flow. It's recommended to go during daylight hours and be patient with the waiting times.
The road is generally accessible, but it can be narrow and winding. During peak seasons, traffic management might cause delays.
Driving is the most common method, offering flexibility. Public transport options to Serra da Estrela are limited, so a car is highly recommended for reaching Covão d'Ametade.
Yes, there are parking areas available, but they can fill up quickly during busy periods. Arriving early or on a weekday is advisable.
Public transport to the immediate vicinity of Covão d'Ametade is very limited. It's best to plan your trip with a private vehicle or consider organized tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Covão d'Ametade is a natural area within Serra da Estrela Natural Park and does not typically have an entrance fee. Access to the natural beauty is free.
As a natural park area, Covão d'Ametade is accessible year-round during daylight hours. Access might be restricted during severe weather conditions.
No, advance booking is not required as it's a natural attraction. However, during peak seasons, arriving early is recommended to secure parking.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment. Camping might be restricted to designated areas, and littering is prohibited.
Yes, winter visits can be magical, especially with snow, offering a romantic and mysterious atmosphere. However, check road conditions as snow can make access difficult.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy picnics, short hikes, photography, and simply relax amidst the stunning glacial valley scenery. It's also the starting point for several hiking trails.
Yes, it's a great spot for families. There are picnic areas and open spaces for children to play, but supervise them closely due to the natural terrain.
Expect a unique glacial valley in an amphitheater shape, surrounded by mountains, with the source of the Zêzere River and scattered boulders.
Facilities are minimal, reflecting its natural state. There are picnic tables, but restrooms and shops are not readily available on-site.
A leisurely walk around the valley floor, exploring the river source, and enjoying the panoramic views is ideal. For the more adventurous, consider the hiking trails.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic glacial valley, the emerging Zêzere River, the surrounding mountain peaks, and the vibrant autumn foliage. Drone shots offer unique perspectives.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone photography is popular here, offering stunning aerial views of the valley. Ensure you are aware of and comply with any local drone regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive valley. A telephoto lens can be useful for mountain details. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
The entire valley offers picturesque views. The area around the river source and the higher points overlooking the amphitheater are particularly scenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are designated picnic spots, making it an ideal location for a family lunch amidst stunning scenery. While the main area is relatively accessible, it's important to note that the terrain can be uneven, so keep a close eye on younger children. The short, easy walks around the river source are perfect for little legs. It's a wonderful opportunity to introduce kids to the beauty of the Serra da Estrela and its unique glacial landscapes.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
You'll encounter unique geological formations, diverse plant life, and breathtaking panoramic views. Nature lovers will be captivated by the unique glacial valley and the source of the Zêzere River. The area is perfect for photography, birdwatching, and simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of the mountains. Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and appropriate gear for your trek.
📸 Photographers
The source of the Zêzere River offers a unique point of interest, and the scattered boulders add texture to the scene. Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Autumn brings a spectacular display of colors, making it a prime time for landscape photographers.
Drone photography is also highly recommended here to capture the vastness and unique topography of the valley from above. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Glacial Legacy
The unique ecosystem that thrives here is a direct result of this geological history. The surrounding mountains and the valley's formation are a stunning visual representation of glacial processes. Visitors can truly appreciate the scale and beauty of this natural phenomenon. The landscape is dotted with boulders, remnants of glacial activity, and the valley floor is a lush green expanse, especially vibrant during spring and autumn.
Hiking and Exploration
These routes allow you to explore the 'covões' (coves) and 'cântaros' (large rock formations) that characterize the region. These trails vary in difficulty, offering options for casual walkers and more seasoned trekkers. The scenery along the paths is consistently breathtaking, featuring panoramic mountain views, diverse flora, and the unique geological formations of the Serra da Estrela.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, carry water, and check weather conditions before setting out, as mountain weather can change rapidly. The Romantic and Mysterious Aura
The ethereal mist that can sometimes shroud the valley, combined with the dramatic mountain backdrop, creates a sense of enchantment. This is particularly true during autumn, when the changing leaves cast a warm, magical glow over the landscape. In winter, when snow blankets the area, the romantic allure intensifies, transforming the valley into a serene, almost otherworldly scene.
This mystical quality makes it a popular spot for photographers and those seeking a tranquil escape. The feeling of being in a secluded, ancient place adds to its charm, inviting visitors to slow down and soak in the natural beauty. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit