Portugal - Summer Wildlife of Serra da Estrela

Summary

The Serra da Estrela is continental Portugal’s highest mountain range, forming the western tip of the central system of mountains which run laterally across the north-central regions of the Iberian Peninsula. The area is also home to the country’s largest natural conservation area. This spectacular region supports a rich alpine flora, a wealth of butterflies and an enticing selection of birds. There are three distinct levels to the Serra da Estrela, determined by altitude. At lower regions, Oak and Beech woodlands dominate. Here, Honey Buzzard, Goshawk, Western Bonelli’s Warbler, Firecrest, Pied Flycatcher, Crested Tit and Crossbill are all possible. The Juniper-covered slopes and beautiful mountain lakes above begin to show signs of more specialist alpine flora and fauna, with breeding Crag Martins, Rock and Ortolan Buntings present, alongside the impressive Marbled Newt. Higher still, habitats transition into open pasture, granite-strewn plateau and jagged peaks rising up to 2,000 metres. Here, the really special plants and flowers may be found, alongside a plethora of attendant butterfly and insect-life. The region supports many scarce and endemic plant species, amongst them Marsh Gentian, the endemic Teucrium salviastrum, Campanula herminii, Silene foetida and, in the wetter areas, St. Patrick’s Cabbage and the sundew, Drosera rotundifolia. Sooty Copper, Large Tortoiseshell, Spotted Fritillary and Black-eyed Blue are just a few of the special butterfly species to be found here.

• Enjoy the rugged peaks of mainland Portugal's highest alpine region 
• Possible butterflies include Spanish Purple Hairstreak, Iberian Chestnut Heath, Black-eyed Blue 
• Range of local and regional endemic flora such as Teucrium salviastrum, Silene foetida and Campanula herminii
• Stay in a boutique eco-hotel boasting spectacular views across the surrounding landscape 
• Led by an expert naturalist guide