Covão dos Conchos Trail: The Magical Gateway to Serra da Estrela

Euro Tours Covilhã
1 day ago
4 min read

Have you ever imagined finding a "portal to another dimension" in the heart of Serra da Estrela? No, we're not talking about science fiction, but rather one of the most surprising and photogenic places in Portugal: the incredible Covão dos Conchos!

If you’re planning to spend the summer in the Serra da Estrela region, you can’t miss this extraordinary place that looks like it’s straight out of a fantasy film. And the best part: the hike to get there is just as spectacular as the destination!

What is the Covão dos Conchos?

Although it may seem like the work of magic or aliens (just kidding!), Covão dos Conchos is actually a work of engineering built in the 1950s. It is a tunnel approximately 1.5 km long, designed to carry the waters of Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida, the largest water reservoir in Serra da Estrela.

What makes this place so special is its unique appearance: a perfectly circular “hole” in the middle of a lagoon, creating a stunning visual effect that resembles a portal to another world. When water falls through this “funnel”, the spectacle is even more incredible!

How to get to Covão dos Conchos

To appreciate this extraordinary place in person, be prepared to walk! There is no other way to get there than on foot, but believe me: every step is worth it.

The trail starts at Lagoa Comprida, where there is a convenient free parking lot. Look for the dirt path to the left of the souvenir shop. From there, it is approximately a 5km (one way) moderate walk to Covão dos Conchos.

Euro Tours Tip: If you prefer not to venture out alone, we offer guided tours to Covão dos Conchos with experienced guides who know all the secrets of the route!

What to expect from the trail

The total route is about 10km (round trip) and, although it is not technically difficult, it requires a moderate level of fitness and determination. The trail is not signposted, but it is relatively easy to follow on days with good visibility.

During the hike, you will be treated to some of the most stunning landscapes in Serra da Estrela. At over 1500 meters above sea level, the views are breathtaking! You will see impressive rock formations, typical vegetation of the mountains and, if you are lucky, even some wild animals.

Best time to visit

Although the trail can be walked all year round, each season offers a different experience:

Summer (now!) : Long, mostly sunny days, perfect for hiking. The lack of snow makes the trail easier, but remember that it can be hot and there isn't much shade along the way.
Spring : An explosion of colors with wildflowers, lots of water in the streams due to the melting of the snow and pleasant temperatures.
Autumn : Golden colors in the landscape and fewer visitors, but the days are shorter.
Winter : Snow-covered landscape, extremely photogenic, but the trail becomes more challenging and potentially dangerous without proper equipment.

What to take in your backpack

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, don't forget to bring:

Plenty of water (there are no springs along the way)
Energy snacks or a complete picnic
Sunscreen (altitude increases UV exposure)
Hat or cap
Comfortable footwear suitable for walking
Layered clothing (even in summer, the weather can change quickly in the mountains)
Camera (trust me, you'll want to record every moment!)
A bag to bring your trash back

Fun facts you need to know

Covão dos Conchos gained worldwide fame on social media a few years ago, when photos of the "hole" went viral online.
The structure is technically known as a "bottom discharge" or "gloryhole".
Lagoa Comprida, the starting point of the trail, was originally a small natural lake that was enlarged with the construction of a dam.
The water that reaches Lagoa Comprida comes through two tunnels: Covão dos Conchos and Covão do Meio, which is more than 2km long.

Tips for Brazilians

If you came from Brazil to visit Portugal, you should know that Serra da Estrela offers completely different landscapes to those found in Brazilian territory. Covão dos Conchos is a unique opportunity to get to know a mountain ecosystem with very particular characteristics.

The altitude can be surprising to those who are not used to it, so take it easy on the hike, take breaks when necessary and stay hydrated.

Combine with other experiences

After conquering the Covão dos Conchos Trail, how about cooling off on one of the region’s wonderful river beaches? Or perhaps enjoy a night of stargazing? Serra da Estrela is one of the best places in Portugal to admire the night sky!

Come and discover this natural treasure with Euro Tours Covilhã! We have personalized itineraries for all tastes and levels of adventure. Contact us and plan your unforgettable experience in Serra da Estrela!

Have you ever visited Covão dos Conchos? Tell us about your experience in the comments! And don't forget to share your photos using the hashtag #EuroToursCovilha