Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Serra do Montemuro with Friends

A Day of Panoramic Vistas and Culinary Delights

Today was all about soaking in the vast landscapes of Serra do Montemuro and treating ourselves to some well-deserved local cuisine. It’s amazing how quickly these days fly by when you’re surrounded by such natural beauty and good company. I'm always eager to share these experiences, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own adventures, even if it's just a short escape from the routine.

Our first stop was the Observatório de Natureza da Senhora do Castelo. The drive up was scenic in itself, with winding roads offering glimpses of the valleys below. When we arrived, the view was nothing short of spectacular. From this vantage point, at over 1000 meters, we could see the Douro Valley stretching out before us, the Serra do Marão in the distance, and even catch a glimpse of Porto on the horizon. It felt like we were on top of the world. The observatory itself is a modern metal structure, providing a 360-degree panoramic view. It's quite a recent addition, opened in 2023, designed to draw tourists and highlight the natural beauty of the Serra de Montemuro.


Explore the natural beauty and wildlife at the Observatório de Natureza da Senhora do Castelo, a must-visit destination in Portugal for nature enthusiasts.

Close to the observatory, there's a serene chapel, both old and new, adding a touch of history and spirituality to the site. The area has been considered sacred for centuries, a place where one can feel a connection to both nature and something greater. I took some photos, trying to capture the immensity of the landscape, but no picture can truly do it justice. It’s one of those places you have to experience firsthand.

After taking in the views, we were ready for breakfast. We headed to Sabores De Montemuro in Cinfães. This restaurant is known for its regional specialties, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. I opted for a traditional Portuguese breakfast of fresh bread, local cheese, and strong coffee. The others tried various pastries and local delicacies. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and the staff was incredibly friendly. It was the perfect start to our day.


Discover Sabores De Montemuro in Cinfães - A culinary destination offering exquisite steaks and traditional Portuguese cuisine in a warm atmosphere.

Reenergized, we set off for our next destination: Miradouro de Aveloso. This viewpoint offered a different perspective of the Serra do Montemuro, with a closer view of the traditional villages nestled in the hillsides. The landscape here is a mix of granite mountains and valleys, creating a unique and breathtaking panorama. I found myself reflecting on how different this was from my everyday life in Berlin. The peace and quiet of the mountains were a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Experience the serene beauty of Portugal at Miradouro de Aveloso, a hiker's paradise offering stunning panoramic views and tranquil nature.

Sometimes, the best way to appreciate where you’re going is to pause and admire where you are.

By lunchtime, we were all feeling a bit peckish again. We decided to try Estrela da Serra. This restaurant is known for its regional specialties and pizzas. The restaurant has wonderful views of the Serra de Montemuro. I decided to try the carne arouquesa, a local beef dish, while some of my friends opted for pizza. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Estrela da Serra in Ester – where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

Our final stop for the day was the Parque Botânico do Paiva. Located on the banks of the Paiva River, this botanical park is a haven of tranquility. We strolled along the walking paths, admiring the diverse flora and fauna. The park has a support building with a bar and restrooms. The park is well-maintained and offers a peaceful escape into nature.


Explore the stunning flora and tranquil paths of Parque Botânico do Paiva, a must-visit botanical paradise in Cinfães, Portugal.

As evening approached, we decided to check out Rochedo Bar for a nightcap. It was a cozy spot, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. We enjoyed some local wine and chatted with the friendly locals. It was a great way to end our day in Serra do Montemuro.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Rochedo Bar in Castro Daire, where local culture meets affordability, making it a must-visit for tourists.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Museu Serpa Pinto, Panorâmica do Detrelo da Malhada and the Scenic spot Frecha da Mizarela. We’ll also grab breakfast at Restaurante Solar do Montemuro, lunch at Sabores De Montemuro, and dinner at Estrela da Serra. Before calling it a day, we'll check out the Céu Aberto - Decoração De Interiores, Lda shop. I’m looking forward to another day of discovery in this beautiful region.

Back at our campsite, as I write this, I can hear the gentle sounds of the mountains around me. The stars are out in full force, and the air is crisp and clean. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate the simple things in life. I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty and share it with my friends. I am also glad that Lena encouraged me to start this blog, as it allows me to share my travel experiences with you all.

Tomorrow, we venture further into the heart of Serra do Montemuro, eager to uncover more of its hidden treasures. Good night from Portugal!