Serra da Estrela

The Serra da Estrela contains the highest mountains of mainland Portugal, rising to the summit known as Torre. Part of the wider Central System, the range sends streams in several directions from its heights. The Mondego, Zêzere, Alva and Alvôco all have their sources here: the Mondego and its tributaries run west, while the Zêzere joins the Tagus farther south. Snow and rugged slopes distinguish the high country from the valleys and settlements that surround it.