ESTRELA MOUNTAINS

Portuguese Serra Da Estrela, highest mountains of Portugal. The range lies in the north-central part of the country, between the basins of the Tagus and Mondego rivers. The western continuation of the Central Sierras (Sistema Central) of Spain, the range runs about 40 miles (65 km) from northeast to southwest and is between 10 and 15 miles (16 and 24 km) wide. The highest point is the Malho da Estrela (6,539 feet ). With an annual rainfall of more than 90 inches (2,300 mm) above 4,000 feet (about 1,200 m), the range is one of Portugal's chief pastoral districts, the seasonal herding of sheep and goats still being practiced there. Wildlife includes wild goat, deer, fox, and wild boar. Tin, titanium, and tungsten are mined in the mountains. Winter sports, including skiing, account for a small tourist trade.