Covilhã Spring

## Overview Covilhã Spring is a public drinking spring located along the ER339 road near the city of Covilhã in central Portugal's Castelo Branco district. Situated at an elevation in the foothills of the Serra da Estrela — Portugal's highest mountain range on the mainland — this spring draws from the granite-rich geology that characterizes the region. Covilhã itself is historically known as the "City of Wool" due to its centuries-old textile industry, and the surrounding mountains have long been valued for their abundant natural water sources that feed streams, fountains, and springs throughout the area. The spring sits at approximately 40.2913°N, 7.5275°W, along the ER339 regional road just outside the Covilhã urban area (postal code 6200-073). Public roadside springs like this one are a common and cherished feature of Portuguese mountain communities, where locals and travelers have historically relied on natural water sources. Many such springs in the Serra da Estrela region are fed by snowmelt and rainfall filtering through ancient granite formations, which can give the water a notably clean and fresh character. Visitors have traditionally used springs like this one as drinking water sources, though water quality can vary with seasonal conditions. ## Directions 1. From the center of Covilhã, head toward the ER339 regional road (Estrada Regional 339). 2. Follow the ER339 as it leads out of the city. 3. The spring is located roadside along the ER339, near the 6200-073 postal area. 4. Look for a traditional stone fountain or spout structure typical of Portuguese public springs along the road. 5. **GPS coordinates:** 40.291333, -7.527528 — use these for precise navigation, as the spring may be easy to pass if you're unfamiliar with the area. ## What to Expect As a roadside public spring along a regional road, Covilhã Spring is easily accessible by car. Springs of this type in the Serra da Estrela foothills are typically simple stone-built fountains with one or more spouts delivering a continuous flow of water. The surrounding landscape features the rugged, green terrain characteristic of central Portugal's mountain country, with views of terraced hillsides and granite outcrops. The Serra da Estrela region experiences cold, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Water flow at mountain springs in this area tends to be strongest in late winter and spring following snowmelt and seasonal rains, and may diminish during the drier summer months. The area around Covilhã offers numerous hiking trails, natural pools, and other springs worth exploring, making this a worthwhile stop as part of a broader visit to the region. Parking is typically available along the roadside near the spring. There are no entrance fees — public springs in Portugal are freely accessible to all.