4.0
(3)
169
runners
12
runs
Jogging routes around Sazes da Beira traverse a diverse landscape within the Serra da Estrela mountain range, characterized by granite plateaus, deep U-shaped glacial valleys, and pristine rivers. The region offers varied terrain, including paths alongside ancient irrigation channels and routes through pine forests and terraced agricultural fields. These running routes provide access to dramatic mountain scenery and historical sites, catering to different fitness levels.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
8
runners
57.0km
08:32
2,990m
3,050m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
46
runners
25.3km
04:00
1,470m
1,470m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

7
runners
8.50km
00:55
120m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
21.4km
02:41
470m
470m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
9.42km
01:01
170m
170m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
The way is arduous, but the destination is worth it.
0
0
Covão dos Conchos is an artificial lagoon located in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Portugal, near the mountain village of Sabugueiro. Covão dos Conchos became famous for its bell-mouth spillway[1]. The spillway was built in 1955 to allow water to be transferred from the Ribeira das Naves River to Lagoa Comprida. It is part of the Serra da Estrela Hydroelectric System. This science fiction-style spillway became famous when photographs of the hole went viral on social media in 2016. Over the past 60 years, the growth of vegetation at the funnel's mouth has created extraordinary biodiversity and increased its ethereal allure. It is 4.6 meters high and 48 meters in circumference. The tunnel that collects the water is 1,519 meters long.
2
0
Covão dos Conchos is an artificial lagoon located in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Portugal, near the mountain village of Sabugueiro. Covão dos Conchos became famous for its bell-mouth spillway[1]. The spillway was built in 1955 to allow water to be transferred from the Ribeira das Naves River to Lagoa Comprida. It is part of the Serra da Estrela Hydroelectric System. This science fiction-style spillway became famous when photographs of the hole went viral on social media in 2016. Over the past 60 years, the growth of vegetation at the funnel's mouth has created extraordinary biodiversity and increased its ethereal allure. It is 4.6 meters high and 48 meters in circumference. The tunnel that collects the water is 1,519 meters long.
1
0
A beautiful nature trail, about 9 km round trip to Covão dos Conchos. Unfortunately, on August 15th, the water couldn't reach the hole and thus reveal the waterfalls. It's a reservoir, part of the Serra da Estrela hydroelectric system. A funnel-shaped drainage structure that allows water to flow from this body of water to Lagoa Comprida. The spillway was built in 1955 to divert water from Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida. Over the past 60 years, moss and foliage have grown over the mouth of the funnel, creating a captivating spectacle. It is 4.6 meters high and 4.8 meters in circumference. The tunnel that collects the water is 1,519 meters long. It's a stunning place to visit, not only for the combination of human intervention and nature, but also for the surrounding landscape.
2
1
This reservoir, part of the Serra da Estrela hydroelectric system, is a popular tourist destination. Part of this attraction comes from a funnel-shaped drainage structure that allows water to flow from this body of water to Lagoa Comprida. The spillway was built in 1955 to divert water from Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida. The conical spillway was little known until photos of the hole went viral in 2016. Over the past 60 years, moss and foliage have grown over the mouth of the funnel, creating a captivating spectacle. It is 4.6 meters high and 4.8 meters in circumference. The tunnel that collects the water is 1,519 meters long. It is a stunning place to visit, not only for the combination of human intervention on nature, but also for the surrounding landscape. The trail from Lagoa Comprida leads here is truly beautiful in any season. Bring windbreaker and water.
2
0
Located at an altitude of approximately 1,600 meters, Lagoa Comprida is the largest water reservoir in the Serra da Estrela, intended for hydroelectric generation. This natural lake lies in a wide depression of glacial origin, approximately one kilometer long, which fed the Covão Grande glacier. Numerous glacial scars are visible along its banks, making this lake one of the most interesting geomorphological sites in the Serra da Estrela. Construction on this lake began in 1911, and by 1914, it was already six meters high. Later, in 1965, it underwent heightening work that increased its height to 28 meters, currently boasting a storage capacity of approximately 14 cubic hectometers, flooding an area of approximately 80 hectares. Small streams of water flow into this lagoon, as well as water retained in the Covões dos Conchos and Covões do Meio and carried to this lagoon through underground tunnels.
7
1
The Serra da Estrela Natural Park is something truly special. This 1,000-square-kilometer park, spread across six municipalities, was the first and currently the largest protected natural park in Portugal. It is home to the highest point on the Portuguese mainland, the country's only ski slope, the source of two important rivers, and a fascinating, alpine-like landscape formed by glaciers.
5
1
At exactly 1993 meters above sea level, Torre is the highest point in mainland Portugal, where the only ski resort is located. The landscape on the upper plateau of the Serra da Estrela is like a sprinkling of granite rocks over low scrub and patches of snow and ice, which the sun threatens to melt soon in the summer and which always returns the following winter. In winter, it sometimes becomes inaccessible.
6
0
The running routes in Sazes Da Beira, nestled within the Serra da Estrela mountain range, offer a diverse range of terrains. You'll encounter granite plateaus, deep U-shaped glacial valleys, and paths alongside pristine rivers and ancient irrigation channels (levadas). Many trails also wind through pine forests and terraced agricultural fields, providing varied surfaces and scenic views.
While many routes in the region are rated as difficult, there are moderate options available. For instance, the area offers paths that follow ancient levadas or trace rivers, which tend to be flatter or gently undulating. These can be a good starting point for those looking for a less strenuous run. You can find several moderate routes listed in the guide.
Yes, Sazes Da Beira is an excellent destination for long-distance running. For example, the Oh Meu Deus 50k Trail is a challenging 35.4 miles (57.0 km) route, offering significant elevation gain and a comprehensive experience of the mountainous landscape. Another option is the Pico da Serra da Estrela loop from Loriga, which spans 15.9 miles (25.7 km) with panoramic views.
Yes, several running routes in the Sazes Da Beira area are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A notable example is the Cornos do Diabo – Aqueduct of the Caniça Route loop from Lapa dos Dinheiros, a 7.0 miles (11.2 km) trail that takes you through historical aqueduct areas.
The running routes around Sazes Da Beira are rich with natural beauty and historical sites. You might encounter stunning glacial valleys, impressive rock formations, and picturesque rivers. Specific highlights include the unique Covão dos Conchos Trail, the serene Long Lake, and the dramatic Cornos do Diabo. You can also discover traces of old wolfram mines and charming villages like Sazes da Beira itself, known for its imposing fountain.
Absolutely. The region is known for its pristine rivers and water features. You can find routes that lead to beautiful lakes such as Long Lake and Covão do Ferro Lake. For a waterfall experience, consider exploring trails near Poço da Broca de Serapitel.
Sazes Da Beira offers a compelling environment for running throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer can be warm but is ideal for higher altitude routes. Winter running is possible, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations within the Serra da Estrela.
While many routes are challenging, the diverse terrain includes gentler paths suitable for families. Trails following ancient levadas or river paths often provide scenic and relatively flat options. These can be great for a family outing, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural beauty at a more relaxed pace.
Many outdoor trails in Portugal, especially in natural parks like Serra da Estrela, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, ideally on a leash, and owners clean up after them. It's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations or local signage, but generally, you should be able to enjoy the natural paths with your canine companion.
There are over a dozen dedicated running routes around Sazes Da Beira documented on komoot, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels. This includes 5 moderate routes and 9 difficult routes, ensuring options for different fitness levels and preferences.
The running experience in Sazes Da Beira is unique due to its location within the majestic Serra da Estrela mountain range. You'll find a blend of dramatic glacial landscapes, historical elements like old wolfram mines and ancient terraced fields, and charming mountain villages. The combination of varied terrain, panoramic views, and cultural points of interest creates a distinctive and rewarding running environment.
Yes, Sazes Da Beira is well-suited for experienced runners seeking a challenge. Many routes feature significant elevation gains and technical terrain. For example, the Oh Meu Deus 50k Trail and the Covão dos Conchos loop from Albufeira de Lagoa Comprida are both rated as difficult and offer substantial distances and climbs.


Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.