Who would have thought that it can snow in Portugal? In fact, the country even has a ski resort, an albeit modest one, located in the country’s highest mountain – Serra da Estrela, or star mountain to give it its English name equivalent. The area is as far away from the sunny south as one can get, but what it lacks in sandy beaches and sun, it makes up with stunning landscapes, raw nature and an authenticity untouched by mass tourism.

Now, the Casas da Lapa is located bang in the middle of this area, on the north-eastern slope of Serra da Estrela, inside the protected Natural Park and, given its positioning, wants for nothing in terms of nature and unique scenery. But it is also a refined accommodation in itself and charms guests with its ambience, thick stone walls, art and a cosy fireplace that’s perfect for a drink just before bedtime. Indeed, the 19th century house was rebuilt with much care and affection using local material such as granite and wood using time honoured building craft techniques, but it still includes all those little mod cons that even the most adventurous traveller likes a little treat, ergo air-conditioning, central heating, WI-FI, Tivoli audio with mp3 and i-phone connection and even hydro-massage.

Nur 300 m vom Haupthaus entfernt befinden sich die Casas do Soito, zwei Wohnungen, eine mit zwei und die andere mit drei Schlafzimmern, die als Selbstversorger mit Frühstück und täglicher Reinigung angeboten werden. Der Garten und der Pool mit herrlicher Aussicht werden von den beiden Wohnungen gemeinsam genutzt.

The latter is actually rather important in our opinion, for after perhaps a few treks or bike rides on the mountain range, one can do with a little luxury like that, as it were to sooth those aching muscles. It all makes for a great combination of tradition and modernity with the majestic “Star” Mountain as a backdrop. So, to sum up, if you’re looking to discover the rugged beauty of Portugal's highest peak, a place where nature is still master but also an authentic place to use as base, then Casas da Lapa is a great pick.