Serra da Estrela Biosphere Reserve: mountain nature and pastoral life

Serra da Estrela Biosphere Reserve, designated in 2026, brings together a mountain territory associated with six municipalities: Celorico da Beira, Covilhã, Gouveia, Guarda, Manteigas and Seia. The Man and the Biosphere programme connects conservation, research and sustainable development with the communities living in the mountains.

One mountain, different recognitions

Glacial valleys, granite landforms and upland environments reveal a landscape changed by natural processes and human work. Water and varied terrain explain different environments, while pastures and settlements show an inhabited mountain region.

Biosphere designation, announced on 5 June 2026, is separate from the Estrela Geopark, recognised in 2020. The geopark covers nine municipalities, while municipal biosphere sources identify six. The Natural Park also has its own protection instrument: their boundaries should not be presumed identical.

Pastoral life, wool and memory

Grazing and transhumance connect mountain journeys with the needs of flocks and communities. Burel, a fulled woollen fabric, adds the transformation of raw materials to this story. Fields, workshops and settlements reveal relationships between natural resources and local skills.

Discovery need not focus only on the summit or winter. Choosing a village, an interpretation centre and a cultural theme can offer a fuller experience of the territory.

Planning your discovery

Seia municipality and the intermunicipal community document designation. For local information, the separate Geopark gateway network includes CISE in Seia.

Confirm opening arrangements, weather, road status and trail conditions with those responsible. Territorial designation does not guarantee access everywhere. Continue with our Portuguese reserve index.