Mountain Houses for Sale in Portugal: Your Ultimate Guide

What are mountain houses?

Mountain houses in Portugal, or casas de montanha, are residential properties built in the mountain regions. They are often located near wild landscapes, such as forests, hills, and rivers. This type of Portugal real estate is best for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle, a cozy holiday home, or an investment in rural tourism.

Mountain homes come in different types, from traditional stone cottages to modern villas and equestrian property in Portugal, designed for comfort and stunning views. One of the biggest advantages of purchasing a mountain home is the outdoor lifestyle.

Portugal boasts stunning mountain ranges like Serra da Estrela and Serra da Arrábida. Mountain properties offer proximity to outdoor activities, mainly hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The Gerês mountains feature historic Roman ruins, while the islands of Madeira and the Azores provide a booming tourism industry.

Are mountain homes a good investment?

Portugal has no restrictions on foreign property ownership, whether you are looking to buy residential or commercial real estate. House prices in Portugal are often lower than in many Western European countries, which makes mountain homes a smart investment.

Luxury mountain houses for sale in Portugal are known for their traditional stone construction, large terraces with panoramic views, and proximity to natural parks. The lower cost of living, paired with the high quality of life, safety, and universal healthcare, makes mountain homes even more attractive.

According to Statistics Portugal (INE), in October 2025, the tourism sector hosted 3.1 million guests and recorded 7.7 million overnight stays, generating a total revenue of €691.2 million. Therefore, buyers interested in using mountain homes as holiday rentals can enjoy a lucrative investment opportunity. However, the yields vary based on where the home is located.

What are the best regions to buy a mountain house in Portugal?

The central and northern regions are among the best places to find mountain houses for sale in Portugal. The Serra da Estrela mountains, located near the city of Guarda, are home to the highest peak on continental Portugal, Torre. The peak is 1,993 meters (6,537 feet) high and offers stunning landscapes and hiking trails.

Further north, Peneda-Gerês National Park offers lush forests, waterfalls, and rustic mountain villages, making it perfect for nature lovers. Here, the market provides diverse choices, from renovation projects to premium mountain property for sale in Portugal.

Mainland Portugal balances mountains with coastal beauty, from the cliffs of the Algarve to the highlands of the Silver Coast. Although they don’t offer standard mountain houses, you can find country homes for sale in Portugal’s inland areas, further from the coast. They are elevated, rural properties on the rolling countryside or forested hillsides.

Beyond the mainland, the Azores and Madeira archipelagos feature dramatic volcanic landscapes. For example, Pico Island in the Azores is home to the Pico mountain, a volcanic peak rising to 2,351 meters (7,713 feet) and offering breathtaking panoramic views. Overall, the best places to buy real estate in Portugal depend on your lifestyle, budget, and investment goals.

What do I need to know before buying a mountain house in Portugal?

Before buying a mountain house in Portugal, consider the property’s condition. Many mountain homes are older, stone-built houses that you may need to renovate. Since repairs can be expensive, you can inspect the property for plumbing, electrical systems, and roof integrity.

If you are interested in a luxury mountain home in Portugal, they can come with additional amenities, such as a large garden, swimming pool, wine cellar, or under-floor heating. Whether you want exclusive amenities or affordable properties, there are Portugal real estate investments available for every budget.

Here are some more things to check before you buy your new mountain home:

• How far is the property from roads, public transport, local shops, and medical facilities?
• Do you need to add sewage systems, water, or insulation?
• Does the property need building or renovation permits?
• How is the investment potential? This is particularly useful if you rent out the mountain house as a holiday home or for eco-tourism.
• Do you need to pay extra for maintenance or property insurance?

Once you figure out the type of real estate and features you prefer, you can search local property portals. However, because mountain real estate is often tucked away in remote villages or passed down through families, many investors prefer to work with a buyer’s agent. A buyer’s agent, like Goldcrest, can find off-market properties and mountain houses in Portugal.

A buyer’s agent represents you and your interests as a buyer, guides you through your home search, navigates the transaction, and negotiates prices. They are local experts who can secure the best possible price for your interests. A real estate agent offers different services on behalf of the seller. They secure the highest possible price and advise sellers on how to stage and market their properties for sale.

How much do mountain houses cost in Portugal?

The average asking price for a house in Portugal ranges from €1,903 to €4,935 per square meter. However, the costs significantly vary based on the type, size, location, and any additional features of that property.

If you are looking for mountain houses in the northern region, small rustic homes can cost between €70,000 and €150,000. The peaceful countryside offers affordable properties with traditional architecture. Larger houses in desirable locations cost about €350,000 and can reach well over €1 million.

However, luxury properties are more expensive. Mountain houses for sale in Portugal with sea views, particularly in the Algarve region, can exceed €27 million.

A buyer’s agent or a real estate agent in Portugal can research the local property market and find mountain homes that align with your lifestyle preferences and long-term goals. A buyer’s agent, like Goldcrest, can negotiate prices, whether you are looking for luxurious or cheap mountain houses for sale in Portugal.

What is the buying process for mountain homes in Portugal?

Buying property in Portugal is relatively straightforward for foreign nationals. The housing market has no special residency requirements beyond the legal requirements.

If you are wondering how long does it take to buy a house in Portugal, it can take as little as a month to find and purchase your dream home, with the entire buying process typically taking between one and four months.

Here is a step-by-step guide to the buying process:

1. Get a NIF number: This is your nine-digit Portuguese tax identification number, also known as Número de Identificação Fiscal. It is obtained through a local tax office or a fiscal representative.
2. Open a Portuguese bank account: A local bank account reduces the costs of international transfers and currency conversions.
3. Consult a legal representative: A real estate lawyer in Portugal can perform due diligence, inspect contracts, and check the property’s legal status.
4. Property search: Consult with a buyer’s agent or a real estate agent to find a mountain house that suits your needs.
5. Sign the CPCV: Once you find your dream property, make an offer. The promissory contract (CPCV) outlines the terms of sale and requires a 10 to 20 percent deposit of the property’s price.
6. Sign the final deed of sale: After signing the final deed (Escritura) in front of a notary, you can register the property in your name at the Land Registry.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

• Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
• Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
• Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
• Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
• Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.