Upper Beira Attractions Beira Alta

Beira Alta takes in the wooded highlands, geologically the continuation of the cordilleras of central Spain, which extend from the highest peaks on the Portuguese mainland, the Serra da Estrêla (1,991m/6,532ft), to the valleys of the Douro and Mondego. The climate is hot and dry in summer and cold in winter, with a great deal of snow at the higher altitudes.

This is a region of extensive agriculture and pastoral farming (sheep).

The population is sparse, reflecting the low fertility of the soil and the limited area of land suitable for cultivation. The main town of Beira Alta is Guarda with a population of only 18,000, and its largest town is Viseu, with a population of 24,000.