Quick Details
Come and discover how Serra da Estrela cheese is made at a cheese factory in Penalva do Castelo, 40 minutes from Viseu. With more than eight centuries of history, this traditional cheese is an unavoidable landmark in Portuguese gastronomy. Starting between 9:30 and 10:00 am, depending on the evolution of the sheep’s milk curd, learn about the history of farm cheeses and enter the cheese production line. At 11:00 am, the practical workshop ends and the visit continues to the three cheese conservation and maturation chambers, finishing with a visit to the sheepfold and thistle field next to the factory. Ages 10+, with a reduced rate for children 4–9. Minimum party of 4 required to book. Available in Portuguese and English.
Adult
(10+ years)
€ 26
Child
(04-09 years)
€ 13
Come and discover how Serra da Estrela Cheese is made!
With more than eight centuries of history, Serra da Estrela cheese is an unavoidable landmark in Portuguese gastronomy, whose production remains traditional. In this experience, taking place at the cheese factory, learn about the history and the farm cheeses and enter the cheese production line, starting between 9:30 am and 10:00 am, depending on the evolution of the sheep’s milk curd. At 11:00 am, the practical activity of the workshop ends, and the visit continues in the three cheese conservation and maturation chambers. Also visit the sheepfold and the thistle field next to the cheese factory.
What is included
- Arrival at the farm and welcome by the producer
- Cheese experience cheese
- Visit to the 3 cheese conservation and maturation chambers
- Visit the sheepfold and the thistle field
What’s Not Included
- Transportation to the farm
- Gratuities for the producer
Itinerary
- Welcome – Arrival at the cheese factory and welcome by the producer
- Production Line – Learn the history and join the cheese production process (9:30–10:00 am start)
- Practical Workshop – Ends around 11:00 am
- Maturation Chambers – Visit the three cheese conservation and maturation chambers
- Sheepfold & Thistle Field – See the sheep and the thistle traditionally used in cheesemaking
Highlights
More than eight centuries of tradition. Few culinary experiences offer this depth of unbroken history, tied to one of Portugal’s most iconic cheeses.
Timed to the real production process. Starting between 9:30 and 10:00 am depending on the milk curd’s evolution reflects a genuinely authentic, unstaged process.
The thistle field, explained. Seeing the thistle used traditionally in the cheesemaking process reveals a detail most cheese lovers never learn.
Three maturation chambers, up close. Visiting where the cheese ages offers real insight into how flavor and texture develop over time.
Meeting point
- After booking we will send all the details of the farm, location (meeting point) and contact.
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What time does the experience start?
Between 9:30 and 10:00 am, depending on the evolution of the sheep’s milk curd that day.Will I see the sheep?
Yes, the visit includes the sheepfold and the thistle field next to the cheese factory.How old is this cheesemaking tradition?
Serra da Estrela cheese has more than eight centuries of history, and this factory maintains traditional production methods.Is this suitable for children?
Yes, this is a family-friendly experience — children aged 4–9 have a reduced rate.Is transportation included?
Transportation is not included, but private transfer can be arranged on request.What languages is the tour offered in?
The tour is available in Portuguese and English.What is the minimum and maximum group size?
A minimum party of 4 is required to book. Groups of up to 20 are welcome.Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for our policy.
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