Valleys in the shape of horseshoes, ravines, polished rocks and lakes of glacial origin are just some of the formations that demonstrate the importance of the ice and snow in modelling the mountains.

In the valleys to the south west, decorated by terraces and surrounded by the Penha dos Abutres, are the villages of Loriga and Alvoco, which have developed on powerful rocky spurs.

The villages in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park area are mainly at the bottom of the mountains and date back to medieval times.

The craftsmanship of the region is expressed in basket work using chestnut and wicker, weaving, embroidered cotton and smoked produce.

As the population of the Natural Park ages, locals have turned to other means, such as tourism, to preserve their economy and cultural traditions.