Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

Whispers of the Past, Echoes of Nature

Today was a day of diving deep into Portugal's rich tapestry of history and nature. We ventured out to explore the dramatic landscapes of Portas do Ródão Natural Monument. It was a journey filled with awe-inspiring sights and quiet contemplation, a perfect blend for a family adventure.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Portas do Ródão Natural Monument, a serene national park in Portugal, perfect for outdoor adventures and nature lovers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Dom Jardim in Nisa. While I couldn't find the exact menu, I remember enjoying some fresh pastries and strong coffee, which gave me the energy I needed for the day ahead. Thomas opted for a more traditional Portuguese breakfast, while Leela enjoyed some fresh fruit. I made a mental note to buy Leela a tablet from Casas Bahia as a reward for being so well behaved during our trip.

Fueled up, we set off towards the Portas do Ródão Natural Monument. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a dramatic tableau of towering quartzite cliffs flanking the Tagus River. The sheer scale of the 'gates' was breathtaking. I could see why they call it Portas do Ródão – the steep quartz hills, reaching 170 meters, truly look like enormous doors guarding the river.
We parked the car and took some time to admire the view. The Tagus River, forced through the narrow gorge, flowed with a sense of ancient power. It was easy to imagine the river carving its way through the rock over millions of years. The area is also a haven for birdwatchers, with a large colony of griffon vultures nesting in the cliffs. Although I had forgotten to pack our binoculars, we could still spot several of these magnificent birds soaring overhead. I made a mental note to add binoculars to our list of essential travel items. The wind was blowing quite hard, so I was glad I had brought a scarf to keep my hair from getting in my face.
We decided to hike up to the Castelo do Rei Wamba, or King Wamba's Castle, perched atop the northern gate. The path was a bit steep, but Leela was excited to explore, and Thomas, ever the supportive husband, carried her on his shoulders for part of the way. From the castle ruins, the panoramic view of the Tagus valley was simply stunning. I tried to imagine what it must have been like to defend this strategic point centuries ago. The castle is named after a Visigoth king, adding another layer of historical intrigue to the site.
Along the way, we also passed by the Chapel of Our Lady of the Castle (Ermida de Nossa Senhora do Castelo). According to legend, the chapel was built or restructured in the 16th or 17th century, thanks to the promise of a boatman in distress while crossing the Tagus River near the Portas de Ródão. The original image of Our Lady of the Castle, a statue of the Virgin with the child in her arms, carved from limestone, is now in Vila Ruivas.
After soaking in the views and the history, we drove down to the area near the Barca de Ródão Railway Tunnel to see the Portas de Ródão from a different angle. The contrast of light and shadow on the cliffs was incredible. Even though the sun was hidden behind the clouds, the landscape felt magical. I can only imagine how stunning it must be during sunset, when the light bathes the rocks in a golden glow.
For lunch, we headed to Prosper restaurant in Nisa. I opted for Carne De Porco à Alentejana, while Thomas had the Bacalhau à Brás. Leela enjoyed a simple but tasty Bifana. I have to say, the food was delicious, and the service was excellent. We were all very satisfied with our meals.

The Portas do Ródão Natural Monument is a powerful reminder of nature's artistry and the enduring presence of history.

In the afternoon, we drove to the Ermida de São Mamede, a small chapel located near Portalegre. The drive itself was lovely, winding through rolling hills and picturesque countryside. As we approached the chapel, I was struck by its serene setting. Nestled amidst lush greenery, the Ermida exuded a sense of peace and tranquility.

Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of the Ermida de São Mamede Chapel in Portalegre, a hidden gem in Portugal's Alentejo region.

The Ermida de São Mamede dates back to the 16th century and is a fine example of Portuguese Manueline style. The architecture is characterized by detailed stonework and nautical motifs, reflecting Portugal's maritime history. We took our time exploring the chapel's interior, admiring the religious art and soaking in the quiet atmosphere.
According to local tradition, Saint Mammes is greatly respected by the community, and each year a lively local festival is held in his honor, complete with music and traditional foods. It's a shame we missed the festival, but I'm glad we had the opportunity to visit this special place.
After the Ermida, we stopped by Casa da Boa Memória, a local shop in Portalegre. I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back home. I ended up buying some local honey and a beautifully handcrafted ceramic tile. Thomas found a bottle of local wine, while Leela chose a small, hand-painted wooden toy.
For dinner, we decided to try Taberna Facha in Portalegre. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We ordered a selection of tapas to share, including carne, galinhada, and laing. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly and efficient. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring.
As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the dramatic landscapes of Portas do Ródão to the serene beauty of Ermida de São Mamede, we had witnessed the diverse facets of Portugal's natural and cultural heritage. It was a day that nourished both our bodies and souls.
Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Sensory Ecopark of Pia do Urso and the Estrada Romana do Alqueidão da Serra. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery with my family. I'm also hoping to find a nice bar like O Castelo - Café Lounge to relax in the evening.
As I sit here writing this blog post, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience these incredible places with my loved ones. These are the memories that we will cherish for a lifetime. I am also glad I remembered to bring my phone charger, as I would not want to miss out on any photo opportunities. I think I might buy a Motorola Moto G05, as I have heard they are very good and take excellent pictures. Goodnight from Serra de São Mamede Natural Park!