The toponym is perhaps due to the fact that it is located at the foot or edge of Estrela, whose presence is characteristic of this parish, closely linked to the so-called wool rope of the Estrela mountain range, with an intensive industrial activity from both the past and present. Even though, rurality and pastoralism are both very present, with marshes and mills along the Alforfa stream, running along a valley where there are many glaciation testimonies, some of which are classified as geosites under the Estrela Geopark.

Most of the morphology of the mountainous area of Unhais belongs to the granite domain, however, schist has a strong presence at lower altitudes, of which both materials are used side by side in traditional architecture.

Between the industry of wool and the rurality, the existence of hot springs confirms a certain cosmopolitan tone to Unhais, with chalets and hotels, resulting in a very particular local character.