Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

Arrival in Paradise

After a smooth flight from Germany to Lisbon and a scenic drive, we've finally arrived at Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede. The air is crisp, the landscape is breathtaking, and I can already feel the stress of everyday life melting away. This trip is exactly what our family needed – a chance to reconnect with nature and each other.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede, a national park rich in wildlife, hiking trails, and cultural heritage.

Our journey today was all about settling in and soaking up the initial impressions of this stunning natural park. As we drove from Lisbon, Thomas expertly navigated the winding roads, while Leela gazed out the window, her eyes wide with curiosity. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within me; I had read so much about this place, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer beauty of the Alentejo region.

Our first stop was for breakfast at Restaurante Varanda do Alentejo in Marvão. The drive up to Marvão itself was stunning, the views getting more and more panoramic as we climbed. The restaurant is nestled in the heart of the village, offering what some say is an infinite view over the horizon. The reviews I'd read beforehand raved about the traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist, and they weren't wrong. We started with some *pão*, local cheese, and strong coffee. Leela enjoyed some fresh orange juice. The service was friendly and efficient, making us feel right at home. I could tell this was going to be a trip filled with delicious food and warm hospitality.


Experience authentic Alentejan cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurante Varanda do Alentejo in Marvão.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand gestures, but in the quiet moments of connection with nature and loved ones.

After breakfast, we ventured into the Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede itself. The park is known as an island of lush vegetation in an arid region. It is also one of the 30 officially protected areas in Portugal. We decided to start with a gentle hike to Alto da Serra de São Mamede, the highest point in the park. The trail was well-marked, and the ascent was gradual, making it perfect for a family stroll. As we walked, we were surrounded by the sounds of nature – birds chirping, leaves rustling, and the occasional bleating of sheep in the distance. The November air was fresh and cool, and I was glad I had packed layers for all of us. The park's climate is influenced by both Mediterranean and Atlantic weather patterns which results in varied ecosystems.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity at Alto da Serra de São Mamede, Portugal's highest peak south of the River Tagus.

Leela was particularly fascinated by the flora and fauna around us. She spotted several different types of birds, and we even saw a few wild rabbits darting through the undergrowth. Thomas, ever the patient teacher, explained the different species of trees and plants we encountered, pointing out the cork oaks and Pyrenean oaks that are so characteristic of the region. I made a mental note to buy binoculars tomorrow; I had forgotten them in my packing rush.

Reaching the summit of Alto da Serra de São Mamede was a rewarding experience. The views from the top were simply spectacular, stretching out across the Alentejo plains and into the Spanish mountain ranges in the distance. We took some photos, breathed in the fresh air, and simply enjoyed the moment of being together in such a beautiful place. I felt incredibly grateful for this opportunity to share this experience with my family.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante Duarte. It was a cozy spot with a rustic charm. We feasted on traditional Alentejo cuisine, including migas (a bread-based dish) and grilled pork. The food was hearty and flavorful, and it gave us the energy we needed for the afternoon's activities. Leela particularly enjoyed the dessert, a sweet rice pudding sprinkled with cinnamon.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Duarte in São Miguel do Rio Torto - a budget-friendly gem for food lovers.

In the late afternoon, we decided to explore the area around our accommodation a bit more. We chose not to book accommodation in advance, because we wanted to get a feel for the area first. After having lunch in Portalegre, we found a charming little guesthouse just outside the town, nestled amidst rolling hills and cork oak trees. It was the perfect place to unwind and relax after a day of exploring.

As the sun began to set, we headed to The Gin Library + Outdoor Terrace for a pre-dinner drink. I had heard so much about this place. While the Gin Library in the Azores boasts Europe's largest gin collection, I was intrigued to see what this local spot had to offer. It turned out to be a delightful experience. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and the gin cocktails were expertly crafted. Thomas and I enjoyed a couple of G&Ts while Leela sipped on a refreshing lemonade. The outdoor terrace provided stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it the perfect place to end our first day in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park.


Immerse yourself in the exquisite world of gin at The Gin Library + Outdoor Terrace, where nature and flavor harmoniously blend.

For dinner, we chose Tasca Do Zé Bébé, a local favorite known for its authentic Alentejo dishes. The restaurant was bustling with locals, which is always a good sign. We ordered a selection of tapas to share, including grilled chorizo, marinated olives, and local cheese. The food was simple but delicious, and it gave us a true taste of the region's culinary heritage. The portions were generous, and the prices were very reasonable. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Tasca Do Zé Bébé in Portalegre – where every dish tells a story.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. Our first day in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park has been everything I had hoped for and more. We've explored stunning landscapes, tasted delicious food, and most importantly, spent quality time together as a family. I am already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit Judiaria de Castelo de Vide and Sinagoga de Castelo de Vide. I am also excited to browse the shops in the Castle of Castelo de Vide. I have a feeling this is going to be a trip we will cherish for years to come.

The crisp air, the stunning views, and the promise of more adventures to come—Serra de São Mamede has already captured a piece of my heart. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with you all. Goodnight from Portugal!