Perched on the hills in the heart of Serra da Estrela National Park and facing the majestic Zezere Glacier Valley, Casa de São Lourenço, the only five-star mountain hotel in Portugal, is a hidden gem.
.
The hotel combines top-notch services, immaculate design as well as astounding vistas to offer holidaymakers an unforgettable getaway.
The original building was built in 1948. Photo credit: Casa de São Lourenço.
The hotel is set atop the Serra da Estrela Mountains – a scenic three and a half hours drive from Lisbon. Yet, it’s easily accessible by either a car or a train ride. For the ones who opt for the train, you’ll stop at the Covilhã train station which is just a few miles from the hotel.
A mixture of contemporary design and the views of the hills. Photo credit: Casa de São Lourenço.
Serra da Estrela located in the center of Portugal. Photo credit: Casa de São Lourenço.
The former Pousada de São Lourenço was built in 1948 by architect Rogério de Azevedo and designed by Maria Keil in a contemporary way, still contemporary nowadays. In 2018 it became Casa de São Lourenço with a distinct touch of luxury and a design that perfectly fits the mountain settings.
.
In essence, most of the hotel is furnished with local “Burel” wool and local stones. The common areas and most rooms are decorated with rustic yet fashionable furnishing with floor-to-ceiling glass windows to offer undisrupted views of the hills. All the rooms are well-appointed and some with private balconies from where you can enjoy magical sunsets.
Minimalism and the contemporary decor of the rooms. Photo credit: Casa de São Lourenço.
The balconies have a splendid view of Serra da Estrela. Photo credit: Casa de São Lourenço.
Casa de São Lourenço boasts two indoor lounges complete with fireplaces offering warmth and coziness during the coldest months. There is also a huge outdoor terrace that overlooks the mountains and the charming village of Mantiegas. If you fancy a stay full of pampering, their indoor heated pool is a sure way to rejuvenate where you’ll also find a wellness center with a sauna and a Turkish bath.
The contemporary lines of the indoor pool. Photo credit: Casa de São Lourenço.
Even the indoor pool has the most amazing views. Photo credit: Casa de São Lourenço.
Besides that there are lots of options for the most adventure ones. While you can venture out solo to explore the many walking and biking trails, you can also take advantage of picnics organized by the hotel to some of the most breathtaking surrounding areas.
.
Additionally, you can go for cheese and wine tasting or enjoy the well-put-together itinerary that includes visits to the historic villages which offer a glimpse into the authentic heritage.
.
Finally, the hotel restaurant is an excellent spot to try out the local culinary delights while enjoying the peaceful views of the Serra da Estrela landscape. Definitely a unique experience not to be missed !!
In the restaurant you can enjoy delicious gastronomical delights. Photo credit: Casa de São Lourenço.
The hotel restaurant with a very modern design contrasting the warm local stones on the walls. Photo credit: Casa de São Lourenço.
.WHERE: in Serra da Estrela in the center of Portugal
WHEN: in winter it is a popular destination for skiing but the national park can be enjoyed throughout the year
WHY: to relax and appreciate the stillness of the mountains as well as the architecture and contemporary design of the hotel
.
The link here
Featured image credit: Casa de São Lourenço
.
