Family Adventure in Serra da Estrela

Serra da Estrela's Embrace: A Day of Wonders

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the raw beauty and quiet charm of Serra da Estrela. From breathtaking viewpoints to cascading waterfalls and quaint villages, every moment felt like a scene from a postcard. It's days like these that remind me why I love sharing these adventures with my family, creating memories that we'll cherish long after we've returned to Bamberg.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at As Lezírias. Fuelled up, we set off towards our first destination: Miradouro Nave de Santo Antonio. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering glimpses of the vast landscapes that define this region. As we ascended, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. I must admit, I felt a pang of guilt for forgetting the sunscreen, a rookie mistake even for a seasoned traveler like myself. I made a mental note to purchase some in Manteigas later in the day. I really need to make sure I am more organised, especially when travelling with Astrid and Maximilian!

Miradouro Nave de Santo Antonio: A Vista of Epic Proportions

Reaching Miradouro Nave de Santo Antonio, we were greeted by a view that stretched as far as the eye could see. The landscape unfolded before us like a meticulously crafted painting, with rolling hills, deep valleys, and rocky outcrops creating a mesmerizing tapestry. Astrid was immediately captivated, pointing out the tiny houses dotting the hillsides and asking endless questions about the clouds. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was busy capturing the scene with his camera, determined to preserve the moment in its full glory. It was easy to see why this spot is considered one of the best viewpoints in Serra da Estrela. The sheer scale of the landscape was humbling, a reminder of nature's immense power and beauty. I took a moment to simply breathe, soaking in the tranquility and feeling grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family.


Experience the stunning vistas of the Serra da Estrela at Miradouro Nave de Santo Antonio, a breathtaking viewpoint in Manteigas, Portugal.

Poço do Inferno: Nature's Dramatic Display

Next on our itinerary was Poço do Inferno, a waterfall cascading down the steep gorge of Ribeira de Leandres. The drive there was an adventure in itself, with narrow, winding roads flanked by towering trees, a true immersion into nature. As we approached, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation for the spectacle that awaited us. The walk to the waterfall was short but invigorating, the path leading us through a lush, green landscape. The air was thick with moisture, and the ground was soft beneath our feet.
Finally, we reached Poço do Inferno, and it was even more breathtaking than I had imagined. The water plunged down the rocky cliff face, creating a thunderous roar that echoed through the gorge. The pool at the bottom was a swirling mass of white foam, a testament to the power of the water. Astrid was mesmerized, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched the cascading water. I found myself reflecting on the simple joys of travel, those moments where you witness something so raw and untamed that it leaves you feeling utterly invigorated.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Poço do Inferno, a breathtaking waterfall nestled in the heart of Serra da Estrela, Portugal's stunning natural park.

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences are not about ticking off famous landmarks, but about connecting with nature on a deeper level.

Lunch at Montes Herminios: A Taste of Tradition

After our invigorating encounter with nature, it was time for lunch. We drove to Montes Herminios, a restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that immediately made us feel at home. The aroma of home-cooked food filled the air, making our stomachs rumble in anticipation. Maximilian, always eager to try new dishes, opted for a hearty stew, while Astrid, a creature of habit, chose the grilled chicken. I decided to try the vegetarian option, a delightful bean saute, accompanied by rice and fried potatoes.
The food was delicious, each dish bursting with flavor and cooked with love. The portions were generous, and we left feeling full and content. What struck me most was the warmth and hospitality of the staff, who treated us like family. It's these small, personal touches that often make a meal truly memorable. As we savored our food, we discussed our favorite moments from the morning, reliving the breathtaking views and the exhilarating waterfall. These are the moments I cherish most, the shared experiences that strengthen our bond as a family.


Experience the rich flavors of Portugal at Montes Herminios - where culinary traditions meet modern dining in Covilhã.

Manteigas: A Stroll Through History

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we made our way to Manteigas, a charming village nestled in the heart of Serra da Estrela. The village is known for its rich history and stunning natural surroundings, a combination that makes it a must-visit destination in the region. We parked the car and began to explore the narrow, winding streets, admiring the traditional architecture and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The village exuded a sense of timelessness, as if life had remained unchanged for centuries.
We strolled through the historic center, admiring the old stone houses and the quaint shops. Astrid was fascinated by the colorful flowers adorning the windowsills, pointing out each one with delight. We visited the local church, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, and learned about the village's fascinating history. Manteigas has a unique charm, a blend of rustic simplicity and timeless beauty that captivates the soul. I could easily imagine spending weeks here, exploring the surrounding countryside and immersing myself in the local culture.


Explore the historic charm of Manteigas, nestled in the breathtaking Serra da Estrela, offering culture, nature, and delightful local cuisine.
Before leaving Manteigas, we stopped at Cafe Brito, a local bar for a quick refreshment. It was a small, unassuming place, but it had a certain charm that drew us in. We ordered some local pastries and coffee, savoring the sweet treats as we watched the world go by. It was a perfect way to end our visit to Manteigas, a moment of simple pleasure in a beautiful setting.


Discover the charm of Café Brito in Alvoco da Serra, where authentic Portuguese flavors meet a warm, inviting atmosphere for all travelers.

Dinner at Restaurante Paragem Serradalto: A Farewell Feast

As the sun began to set, we drove to Restaurante Paragem Serradalto for dinner. The restaurant is known for its stunning views of the Zêzere Valley, and we were not disappointed. The panoramic vista was breathtaking, the valley bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.
We ordered a variety of dishes, eager to sample the local cuisine. Maximilian chose the roast beef with shrimp, I opted for the feijoca, and Astrid, predictably, went for the steak. The food was delicious, each dish expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The portions were generous, and we left feeling completely satisfied. The service was attentive and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience.
As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures, reliving our favorite moments and sharing laughter. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a reminder of the joy of travel and the importance of family. I raised my glass in a toast, thanking Maximilian and Astrid for sharing this incredible journey with me. I feel so grateful that they are always willing to come on these trips with me.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine in the heart of Manteigas at Restaurante Paragem Serradalto - where tradition meets flavor.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of Serra da Estrela's stunning landscapes, including Miradouro Serra do Açor, Vista panorâmica da serra da Estrela, and Cabeça do Mouro. I'm particularly excited about Miradouro Serra do Açor, as I've heard it offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. We'll also be dining at some local restaurants, including Restaurante Medieval and Taberna A Laranjinha, and perhaps even experiencing the nightlife at Ex-Libris Club. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery, sharing these experiences with my beloved family.
Before heading back to our accommodation, we made a quick stop to pick up some sunscreen, finally remembering the essential item we had forgotten. I'm determined to be more prepared for our adventures tomorrow.
Tonight, as I sit here writing, I'm filled with a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of the power of travel to connect us with nature, with each other, and with ourselves. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'm grateful for the memories we created today.