Chão do Rio

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.

Chão do Rio Logo

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.

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

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