Covilhã (Conceição)

We continued our journey down the eastern side of the country with a visit to Lamego. We viewed the 660 monastery access steps from the bottom, but didn't climb them this time.

Morning tea was in Trancoso before walking through the walled city and along some sections of the 13th century walls. Being a Sunday, most of the shops were closed and the streets were eerily deserted.

The journey to Seia took us across Stella da Estrella, the highest mountain in mainland Portugal - an unusual summit as it is accessible by a paved road. The highest point is not a distinctive mountain summit, but rather the highest point on a plateau, and is known as Torre ("Tower" in English). In winter the area is Portugal's only ski resort, but today was crisp and clear with good views in all directions.

In Saia we toured the National Bread Museum, unsurprisingly, the largest of its type in the world!

Our accommodation tonight is on the outskirts of Covilha, with views over the entire city... and we're the only guests staying in the hotel tonight.Read more