Family Adventure in Serra da Estrela

Viseu's Historical Charms

Today's journey through Viseu was a delightful immersion into Portugal's rich history and artistic heritage. From the grandeur of a baroque palace to the solemn beauty of a medieval cathedral and the inspiring works of a national museum, every moment was filled with discovery. It's amazing how much history a single day can hold, and I'm excited to share our experiences with you.

Our Sunday began with a hearty breakfast at As Thermas. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Portuguese coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for a day of exploration. Astrid was particularly excited, bouncing in her seat as she anticipated the adventures ahead. Maximilian and I savored the moment, appreciating the simple pleasure of a family breakfast before diving into our itinerary.

First on our list was the Palácio dos Condes de Anadia in Mangualde, a short drive from Serra da Estrela. As we approached the palace, its magnificent baroque architecture immediately captured our attention. The palace, also known as the House of Paes do Amaral, showcases the opulent style of the 18th century. We learned that it became known as the Palace of Anadia through the marriage of Manuel Paes de Sá do Amaral to D. Maria Luiza de Sá Pereira de Menezes. The family history woven into the very stones of the palace was fascinating.


Discover the exquisite Palácio dos Condes de Anadia in Mangualde, a historical gem showcasing Portugal's rich architectural and cultural heritage.
The interiors were even more breathtaking, with intricate tile work, lavishly decorated rooms, and stunning views of the surrounding gardens. Astrid was particularly taken with the azulejo tile panels, pointing out the various scenes and characters depicted on them. Maximilian, with his keen eye for detail, admired the architectural nuances, noting the blend of styles and influences that shaped the palace over the centuries. I found myself daydreaming about what it would have been like to live in such splendor, surrounded by art and history. The manicured gardens offered a tranquil escape, and we strolled through them, enjoying the late summer sunshine. It was easy to imagine the counts and countesses of Anadia wandering these same paths, centuries ago.

Visiting the Palácio dos Condes de Anadia was like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the lives of Portuguese nobility and their contributions to the country's rich cultural heritage.

After immersing ourselves in the baroque splendor of the Palácio dos Condes de Anadia, we drove to Viseu to visit the Viseu Cathedral. The cathedral stands proudly in the city, a testament to centuries of history and faith. Its granite facade and twin bell towers present an imposing sight, and as we stepped inside, we were immediately struck by the soaring heights and intricate details. The Viseu Cathedral, a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, reflects the many eras it has seen. The original construction dates back to the 12th century, with significant expansions and renovations occurring over the centuries.


Discover the beauty and history of Viseu Cathedral, a stunning architectural masterpiece in the heart of Portugal's cultural heritage.
I was particularly captivated by the Manueline stone vaulting, adorned with twisted ropes and knots, a true masterpiece of the era. Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, pointed out the various architectural styles, explaining how each period left its mark on the cathedral. Astrid, wide-eyed with wonder, lit a candle at one of the side chapels, a quiet moment of reflection amidst the grandeur. We learned that the cathedral was once home to Saint Theotonius, Portugal's first saint, adding another layer of historical significance to this sacred space.

We also explored the cloisters, a serene space that offered a respite from the bustling city outside. The blend of Renaissance and Mannerist styles in the cloisters was a visual delight, and we admired the delicate carvings and peaceful atmosphere. A staircase led us to the Sacred Art Museum, where we viewed religious artifacts, books, and sculptures. From the museum's balcony, we enjoyed panoramic views of Viseu, a reminder of the cathedral's central role in the city's history and identity.

Leaving the cathedral, we walked across the square to the Museu Nacional Grão Vasco, housed in the former Bishop's Palace. The museum is dedicated to the works of Vasco Fernandes, also known as Grão Vasco, a renowned Portuguese painter from the 16th century. As we entered, we were greeted by a stunning collection of his altarpiece paintings, originally created for the Viseu Cathedral. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the paintings were mesmerizing, and I was particularly drawn to the expressions on the faces of the figures depicted.


Explore the rich artistic heritage of Portugal at Museu Nacional Grão Vasco in Viseu, showcasing masterpieces from the Renaissance to Baroque era.
The museum also features a diverse collection of Portuguese paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as sculptures, jewelry, and decorative arts. Maximilian was fascinated by the archaeological exhibits, while Astrid enjoyed spotting different animals and characters in the paintings. We learned about the museum's history, how it was founded in 1916 to preserve the artistic heritage of the Viseu region. The building itself, with its granite facade and imposing presence, added to the overall experience.

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Quinta do Sangrinhal. The restaurant offered traditional Portuguese cuisine in a cozy setting. We savored local specialties, including roasted meat and fresh seafood, all while enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Astrid particularly enjoyed the Bolo de Bolacha, a traditional biscuit cake. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring.


Experience the essence of Portuguese cuisine at Quinta do Sangrinhal in Covilhã—where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views.
In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, we decided to unwind at Con.M'Irla, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere. We sipped on local wines and enjoyed the lively chatter of the locals. Astrid, with her boundless energy, made friends with a group of children playing nearby, and soon she was laughing and running around with them. It was a heartwarming scene, a reminder of the simple joys of travel and connection.


Discover the charm of Con.M'Irla, a cozy bar in Unhais da Serra, offering local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere amidst stunning mountain views.
For dinner, we chose O Vicente, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Portuguese dishes. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made us feel right at home. We enjoyed a variety of local specialties, including arroz de marisco (seafood rice) and cabrito assado (roasted goat). The flavors were rich and satisfying, a perfect end to a day of culinary exploration.


Discover O Vicente: A charming restaurant in Loriga Seia offering authentic Portuguese dishes and delightful espresso in a cozy atmosphere.
As we reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Viseu. From the opulent Palácio dos Condes de Anadia to the majestic Viseu Cathedral and the artistic treasures of Museu Nacional Grão Vasco, every moment was a discovery. And tomorrow, we plan to continue our exploration with a visit to Solar Do Dao Wine, Santar Vila Jardim, and Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela. Each place promises new sights, sounds, and experiences, and I can't wait to share them with you.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a final stroll through the streets of Viseu. The city was quiet and peaceful, the only sounds the gentle breeze and the distant murmur of conversations. We paused to admire the Igreja da Misericórdia, its white facade glowing in the moonlight. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a reminder of the beauty and serenity that can be found in the most unexpected places.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our family adventure in Serra da Estrela. While I am excited to return to Germany, I will miss the breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences. I'm so glad we were able to enjoy one last adventure together as a family before heading home.