This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Penhas da Saúde.
Penhas da Saúde, Portugal, is a mountain village in the centre of the country, around forty-eight kilometres from the Spanish border. The village is situated at an altitude of around one thousand five hundred meters. The only ski resort in Portugal, Serra da Estrela, is around ten kilometres west -- for many locals and domestic tourists, it is the only option to try out skiing without spending too much money. Besides skiing, you can do many other outdoor activities in Serra da Estrela Natural Park.
Serra da Estrela Natural Park offers the largest mountain range in the country and occupies an area of more than one thousand square kilometres. The highest peak of Continental Portugal, at almost two thousand metres, is located in the natural park as well and is a popular tourist destination not only for winter sports but also in summer for hiking or just enjoying the unspoilt mountainous nature. Do not forget to visit Senhora da Boa Estrela, a beautiful rock sculpture in Covão do Boi. It is around eight kilometres from the village and also a scenic walk.
Tourism and agriculture are important factors in the local economy. Viseu Airport is the closest regional airport, around eighty-five kilometres north if the region. However, if you travel from abroad, the nearest international airport is situated in Porto, and numerous airlines offer frequent flights to Porto all year round. From the airport, it takes around three hours to get to Penhas da Saúde by car.
The small village offers a couple of hotels in which to stay; you can choose from bigger fancy resorts as well as small cosy guesthouses. Backpackers with a smaller budget can stay at a local hostel in Penhas da Saúde, Portugal. Consider that your Penhas da Saúde, Portugal hostel can be booked out quickly during the holiday seasons such as Christmas. The architectural style includes a lot of wood and stone, typical for an alpine vibe. Furthermore, your Penhas da Saúde, Portugal hostel offers free Wi-Fi in common rooms.
Written by local enthusiast for Penhas da Saúde hostels
Flo