Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

Underground Wonders and Riverside Strolls

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey from the depths of the earth to the sun-drenched heights of riverside trails. It’s amazing how much natural beauty is packed into this region, and I couldn't wait to share it all with my family. We experienced the coolness of caves and the warmth of the sun, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Olha a Tosta. It's always a treat to start the day with a traditional Portuguese breakfast. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, instantly waking us up and preparing us for the adventures ahead. Leela, of course, opted for a sweet pastry, while Thomas and I enjoyed the classic toast with cheese and ham. Full of energy, we set off towards our first destination: the Mira de Aire Cave.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mira de Aire Cave, a hidden gem in Portugal featuring stunning rock formations and a fascinating underground world.
The drive to the Mira de Aire Cave was scenic, with rolling hills and quaint villages dotting the landscape. As we approached the cave entrance, a sense of anticipation filled the car. I had read about the cave's impressive rock formations and underground lakes, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing. The Mira de Aire Cave truly is one of Portugal's hidden gems. As we descended into the cave, the temperature dropped noticeably, a welcome change from the mild November air outside. The sheer scale of the cave was breathtaking, with towering stalactites and stalagmites creating an otherworldly landscape. Leela was mesmerized by the dramatic lighting, which highlighted the intricate details of the rock formations.
Our guide led us through a series of tunnels and chambers, sharing fascinating facts about the cave's history and geology. I was particularly impressed by the underground lake, its still waters reflecting the cave's ceiling like a mirror. The cave system spans over 15km, but the tour covers roughly 600 meters of it. Though it's a small section, it was still astonishing. The pathways were well-maintained, with stairs and railings making it easy to navigate, even for Leela. Descending the 600 steps felt like entering another world. At the end of the trail, an elevator whisked us back to the surface, saving us the climb. I was glad for the elevator, especially after all those stairs!

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

Emerging from the cave, we were greeted by the warm sunshine, a stark contrast to the cool, damp environment we had just left behind. It was time for lunch, and we were all looking forward to trying some local cuisine at Restaurante O Cantinho do Pica-Pau. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. We ordered a selection of traditional Portuguese dishes, including grilled fish, roasted chicken, and a hearty vegetable stew. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. Leela particularly enjoyed the *fritas* (fries), while Thomas savored the grilled fish. I tried the *francesinha do Alentejo*, which was delicious.

After a satisfying lunch, we drove to Passadiços do Gameiro, eager to stretch our legs and enjoy some fresh air.


Explore the scenic wooden walkways and rich biodiversity of Passadiços do Gameiro, a serene hiking paradise in the heart of Portugal.
The *passadiços*, or walkways, are part of the Gameiro Ecological Park, a beautiful natural area along the Ribeira di Raia. The park offers various facilities, including a camping park, picnic areas, and even a river beach. The 1.5km loop trail was perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. As we walked along the wooden pathways, we were surrounded by lush vegetation and the gentle sounds of the river. The trail is designed to showcase the local biodiversity, with informative signs about the flora and fauna along the way. We spotted several birds, including herons and kingfishers, and Leela was thrilled to see a family of ducks swimming in the river.

The Passadiços do Gameiro provided a tranquil and scenic experience. The walkways meandered along the river, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. I appreciated the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the peace and quiet of the park. Leela, ever curious, peppered us with questions about the different plants and animals we encountered. The park also has a river beach, which would be perfect for a swim in the warmer months. We made a mental note to return in the summer to take advantage of the beach and other facilities.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our accommodation, feeling refreshed and invigorated by our day of exploration. But before heading back for the night, we decided to stop by Sem Stress, a local bar, for a relaxing evening drink.


Discover Sem Stress: Your perfect café retreat in São Mamede de Infesta, where every sip and bite is a moment of relaxation.
The bar had a laid-back atmosphere, with locals chatting and laughing over drinks. We ordered a round of *vinho verde*, a light and refreshing green wine, and toasted to our wonderful day. Leela enjoyed a refreshing juice, feeling very grown-up sipping from her fancy glass.

For dinner, we decided to try Restaurante O Malagueta.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante O Malagueta in Portalegre – where tradition meets flavor.
It was a perfect way to end our active day. The restaurant has a charming atmosphere and friendly staff. I decided to try the *cozido à portuguesa*, a traditional Portuguese stew, while Thomas opted for the grilled fish. Leela, as usual, went for a simpler option, but she enjoyed the warm, crusty bread that was served with our meals. The portions were generous, and the food was delicious. What a perfect way to end the day!

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit the Portas do Ródão Natural Monument and the Ermida de São Mamede. I'm particularly excited about the Portas do Ródão, a dramatic rock formation carved by the Tagus River. I've seen pictures of it, and it looks absolutely stunning. We'll also be stopping by Casa da Boa Memória, a local shop. I'm hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back home to Heidelberg.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Serra de São Mamede Natural Park with my family. From the depths of the Mira de Aire Cave to the scenic heights of the Passadiços do Gameiro, every moment was a treasure. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue our journey through this beautiful region.

I'm also grateful for the little things that made today special, like the delicious breakfast at Olha a Tosta, the friendly service at Restaurante O Cantinho do Pica-Pau, and the relaxing atmosphere at Sem Stress. It's these small moments that truly make a trip memorable. As an Indian expat living in Germany, I find that travel helps me connect with different cultures and appreciate the diversity of the world. It also allows me to create lasting memories with my family, which is something I cherish deeply. I am excited to continue sharing our adventures with you all, and I hope that my blog inspires you to explore the world and create your own unforgettable experiences.

Tomorrow, we're off to explore more of this beautiful region, with plans to visit the Portas do Ródão Natural Monument and the Ermida de São Mamede. I'm eager to see what other hidden gems we can discover in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. Until then, *adeus*!

I'm also glad I remembered to pack my hiking boots; they were essential for navigating the cave and the trails. However, I still regret forgetting the binoculars for bird watching. I'll have to make sure to buy a pair before our next adventure.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of the importance of spending time in nature and connecting with loved ones. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, and I look forward to many more adventures in the days to come.