Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Serra do Montemuro with Friends

Serra's Secrets Unveiled

Today was all about embracing the raw beauty of Serra do Montemuro. I've always found solace in nature, and today's adventure with my friends was nothing short of therapeutic. We ventured into the heart of the mountains, seeking out hidden waterfalls and savoring the local flavors that define this region. It’s amazing how a day of exploration can recharge the soul, especially when shared with great company.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sabores De Montemuro. The restaurant is located in the center of Cinfães. Knowing we had a long day of hiking ahead, we fueled up with a traditional Portuguese breakfast. I opted for the Alheira com broa frita. Lena, of course, chose the salada de tomate, mozzarela e pesto. It was the perfect start to our day, giving us the energy we needed for our waterfall adventures. I also made sure to charge my portable phone charger, remembering how I forgot it at home [].

Our first stop was Poço do Buraco. The drive there was scenic, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the Serra. When we arrived, the sight was simply mesmerizing. The waterfall cascaded down into a crystal-clear pool, surrounded by lush greenery. We spent a good hour just taking photos and soaking in the tranquility. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a magical ambiance.


Explore the stunning natural beauty of Poço do Buraco in Parada de Ester, a tranquil oasis for nature lovers and adventurers in Portugal.

Next on our list was Briadouro. This spot was a bit more off the beaten path, requiring a short hike through a wooded area. The trail was well-marked, but the terrain was a bit uneven, so I was glad I had my hiking boots. As we approached Briadouro, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. When we finally reached the waterfall, it was even more impressive than Poço do Buraco. The water plunged down with tremendous force, creating a refreshing mist that enveloped us. I felt like a kid again, splashing around in the cool water and marveling at nature's power. I took some amazing photographs, capturing the essence of this hidden gem.


Explore Briadouro in Parada de Ester, a scenic tourist attraction blending nature's beauty and rich cultural heritage in Portugal.

By lunchtime, we were famished. We drove to Estrela da Serra for lunch. This restaurant is known for its regional specialties and pizzas. The restaurant has wonderful mountain views, and a friendly team. I decided to try the carne arouquesa, a local beef dish that came highly recommended. Lena, being a vegetarian, opted for a margherita pizza. The beef was cooked to perfection, tender and full of flavor. Lena enjoyed her pizza. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a memorable dining experience.


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

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

Our final waterfall destination for the day was Poço Negro. This waterfall is near Sernadinha. The name translates to Black Well, and it certainly lived up to its mysterious reputation. The water here was a deep, dark color, creating an eerie yet captivating atmosphere. We hiked down to the base of the waterfall and were rewarded with stunning views of the cascading water against the dark rocks. The area was surrounded by dense forest, adding to the sense of seclusion and adventure. Although Poço Negro is a small waterfall, it is scenic. I learned that Poço Negro is a great spot for a swim. It was the perfect way to end our waterfall tour, leaving us with a sense of awe and wonder.


Discover the serene beauty of Poço Negro, a captivating tourist attraction in Portugal featuring lush landscapes and tranquil waters.

After a day of chasing waterfalls, we were ready for a relaxing dinner. We headed to Restaurante Solar do Montemuro. This restaurant is in the Serra do Montemuro near Cinfães. This spot is known as a gastronomic cathedral. The restaurant has a wonderful panoramic room with views of the Douro and Bestança rivers. I chose the posta arouquesa, a grilled veal chop that is a regional specialty. Lena ordered the arroz de grelos com carne de porco. The food was exceptional, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. We savored every bite, reminiscing about our waterfall adventures and sharing stories around the table. The staff were attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Solar do Montemuro in Cinfães - where tradition meets taste.

To cap off the evening, we decided to check out Stars Bar. It was a cozy little spot with a great selection of local wines and beers. We sat outside, enjoying the cool mountain air and stargazing. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking and exploring. The friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere made it a night to remember.


Experience the local charm at Stars Bar in Picão, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await every traveler.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Serra do Montemuro has a way of captivating you with its natural beauty and authentic charm. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure, where we plan to explore the GR47 - Grande Rota de Montemuro , Fonte de Marcelim, and Parque de Lazer de Pias. It will be another day of immersion in nature, and I can't wait to see what hidden treasures we'll discover. I am also looking forward to going to Serra & Pereira, Lda.

Good night from Serra do Montemuro!