Chão do Rio
★★★★☆
Country Hotel
Serra da Estrela, Portugal
Hidden among forests and granite boulders, Chão do Rio blends traditional village living, sustainable hospitality, and nature immersion in Serra da Estrela.
About the hotel
Nestled in the peaceful village of Travancinha at the foothills of Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Chão do Rio occupies a nineteen-acre farm surrounded by ancient oak trees, granite outcrops, wildflowers, and open pastures. Just a short drive from Seia and Oliveira do Hospital, it offers an authentic countryside retreat immersed in one of Portugal’s most beautiful mountain landscapes.
Built around the concept of genuine village tourism, Chão do Rio recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Portuguese hamlet through beautifully restored stone cottages with green roofs inspired by the region’s historic shepherd shelters. Sustainability, simplicity, and a deep respect for nature shape every aspect of the guest experience, encouraging visitors to slow down and reconnect with the surrounding landscape.
The estate features individually designed stone cottages centred around a crystal-clear biological swimming pool, complemented by vegetable gardens, farm animals, picnic areas, outdoor fireplaces, wood-fired ovens, and extensive green spaces. Daily breakfast baskets filled with regional products and freshly baked bread delivered each afternoon add to the property’s distinctive rural character.
What distinguishes Chão do Rio is its immersive farm experience. Guests are encouraged to collect eggs, feed the animals, harvest vegetables, cycle through the surrounding countryside, and simply enjoy the peaceful rhythms of village life while exploring Serra da Estrela throughout every season.
Today, Chão do Rio is best suited to families, couples, nature lovers, hikers, and travellers seeking an authentic rural escape centred around sustainability, tranquillity, and the natural beauty of Portugal’s highest mountain range.
Rustic stone cottages overlooking the natural swimming pond at Chão do Rio in Serra da Estrela
Aerial view of Chão do Rio with traditional stone cottages, natural swimming pond, and green countryside in Serra da Estrela
Traditional granite cottage with thatched roof, private terrace, and hammock at Chão do Rio
Cozy living room with wood-burning fireplace inside a traditional stone cottage at Chão do Rio
Minimalist bathroom with soaking bathtub and handcrafted wooden bath shelf at Chão do Rio
Sunset over the natural swimming pond reflecting a traditional stone cottage at Chão do Rio
Peaceful countryside view with chapel, gardens, and natural landscapes surrounding Chão do Rio
Friendly donkey at the small farm, one of the authentic rural experiences at Chão do Rio
Organic vegetable garden with rustic entrance surrounded by the peaceful countryside of Chão do Rio
Historic stone bridge crossing a mountain stream in Serra da Estrela Natural Park near Chão do Rio
Creator experience
“I can’t remember the last time a place encouraged me to disconnect so naturally. Collecting fresh eggs, lighting my own fireplace, and receiving breakfast in a basket made every day feel beautifully simple. Surrounded by nature and a crystal-clear biological pond, I found myself slowing down without even trying. It wasn’t just peaceful, it reminded me how rewarding a slower way of living can be.”
captured by Gonçalo Graça
Know before you go
Features
Number of Houses: 6 Stone Cottages
Country Hotel
19-Acre Farm
Biological Swimming Pool
Traditional Stone Cottages
Vegetable Garden
Farm Animals
Outdoor Barbecue & Wood Oven
Good To Know
Check-In / Check-Out: 4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Adults Only: No
Pet Friendly: Yes (Upon Request)
Dining: Breakfast Basket & Self-Catering Kitchens
Parking: Complimentary Private Parking
WiFi: Complimentary Throughout The Property
Accessibility: Limited Due To The Rural Terrain
Weddings / Events: No
Best For: Families, Nature Escapes, Couples, Hiking Holidays, Serra da Estrela Exploration
Experiences
Biological Swimming Pool
Farm Animal Feeding
Vegetable Garden
Free Bicycle Rental
Hiking Trails
Picnics In Nature
Outdoor Barbecues
Wood-Fired Oven Cooking
Birdwatching
Serra da Estrela Exploration
Low Season: From €140/$160
High Season: *From €240/$275
Getting there
Located in the village of Travancinha, Chão do Rio offers an ideal base for exploring Serra da Estrela Natural Park, historic mountain villages, hiking trails, river beaches, and Portugal’s highest peaks while enjoying the tranquillity of the surrounding countryside.
Address
R. da Calçada Romana, 6270-601 Travancinha
How to get there
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
2 hours by car, depending on traffic.
Public Transport
The nearest train station is Nelas, approximately 35 minutes away by car. A rental car is highly recommended for exploring the Serra da Estrela region.
Nearby
Bread Museum (Seia) - 15 minutes by car
Loriga River Beach - 25 minutes by car
Torre (Serra da Estrela) - 45 minutes by car
Covão dos Conchos - 50 minutes by car
Piódão Historic Village - 45 minutes by car