The route begins in the picturesque village of Manteigas, located in the heart of the Serra da Estrela. We start by following the signs for the PR2 MTG – Rota do Javali trail, with an important note: the first 3.5 km, although technically easy, have an average incline of 15%, which requires moderate effort.
After this section, we leave the Rota do Javali and continue along the Zêzere Valley, keeping it always on our right. Along the way, we pass through an area affected by the August 2022 wildfire. It’s sad to see the marks left by the fire, but also hopeful to witness how nature is slowly recovering.
We reach the highest point of the route at 1,527 meters above sea level, right at a curve on the ER338 road. From there, we descend gently along the road, enjoying several spectacular viewpoints of the glacier valley until we reach the sharp bend at Covão da Ametade. This spot offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Zêzere Glacier Valley, considered one of the finest examples of glacial landform in the Iberian Peninsula. Its formation dates back to the last glaciation, when massive ice sheets carved the landscape with power and depth.
From Covão da Ametade, we take the PR6 MTG trail, which leads us back to Manteigas over a distance of about 10 km. The initial stretch follows a footpath, and later we join a forest track that gradually brings us closer to the village.
An impressive route, with significant elevation gain and distance, that rewards hikers with unforgettable views of the majestic Zêzere Glacier Valley.
Video
Map
Max elevation: 1526 m
Total climbing: 1109 m
Total time: 06:03:28
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