Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Serra do Montemuro with Friends

A Day of Natural Wonders and Cultural Immersion

Today was nothing short of magical as we delved deeper into the heart of Serra do Montemuro. Leaving behind the digital world and embracing the raw beauty of Portugal has been incredibly refreshing. With Lena and our friends by my side, every moment felt like a scene from a cherished memory, a testament to the simple joys of life.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Solar do Montemuro. The friendly staff and the beautiful view overlooking the Douro River made it a perfect start. I opted for the *papas de perdiz*, recommended by some reviews, while Lena enjoyed a classic *posta de carne arouquesa*. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the natural wonders of the region.

Our first stop was the stunning Cascata de Barrondes. The cascade isn't colossal, but the surrounding landscape is breathtaking. The crystal-clear waters of the Ribeira de Tendais tumbled down, creating small, refreshing pools. It was an idyllic spot, and we spent a good hour simply enjoying the tranquility and taking photographs. I tried to capture the perfect shot of the waterfall, thinking about how I could use my photography skills, usually reserved for Berlin's architecture, to portray nature's beauty. Lena, ever the artist, sketched in her notebook, capturing the scene's essence with her charcoal pencils. I was thinking about the contrast with the city back home, where the sounds of traffic and construction never cease. Here, only the gentle rush of water and the rustling of leaves filled the air.


Explore the breathtaking Cascata de Barrondes, a hidden gem in Portugal featuring stunning waterfalls and serene natural landscapes for unforgettable adventures.

The beauty of nature lies not just in grand landscapes, but in the intricate details that often go unnoticed.

Next on our itinerary were the Aldeias de Montemuro. These traditional villages offered a glimpse into Portugal’s rich cultural heritage. As we wandered through the narrow streets of one of them, I felt transported back in time. The stone houses, built to withstand the harsh mountain climate, stood as testaments to the resilience of the local people. We met an elderly woman who shared stories of her life in the village, her words painting a vivid picture of a bygone era. She spoke of simpler times, of community and tradition, of a life deeply connected to the land. It reminded me of my own upbringing in Havlíčkův Brod, Czechia, where community bonds were strong and life moved at a slower pace.


Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Aldeias de Montemuro, a hidden gem in Portugal's stunning landscape.

For lunch, we stopped at Sabores De Montemuro. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering a delightful array of local flavors. We tried the *vitela assada* (roasted veal) and some local cheese, all washed down with a glass of regional wine. Lena particularly enjoyed the cheesecake, while I savored the well-prepared *bife á casa*. The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. As we ate, we discussed our favorite moments from the trip so far, agreeing that the authenticity of the experiences was what made them so special. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back in Berlin, a little taste of Portugal in our kitchen.

Our final attraction for the day was Fragas da Penavilheira. Reaching this spot required a bit of a hike, but the views were well worth the effort. From the top, we could see three impressive waterfalls cascading down the rocks. The landscape was rugged and dramatic, a testament to the power of nature. According to local legend, this area was once a refuge for those fleeing persecution, adding a layer of mystique to the already stunning scenery. I found myself reflecting on the resilience of the human spirit, and how people have always sought solace and refuge in nature.


Explore Fragas da Penavilheira: A Stunning Natural Haven of Waterfalls and Lush Trails in the Heart of Portugal.

Before heading back to our campsite, we stopped by Papelaria Montemuro to pick up a few postcards. I wanted to send a handwritten note to my parents back in Czechia, sharing our adventures and letting them know we were thinking of them. It’s a small gesture, but I know they appreciate the personal touch. The shop had a surprisingly wide selection of local crafts and books, so Lena found some nice souvenirs.


Explore the enchanting Papelaria Montemuro in Castro Daire, a must-visit bookstore filled with literary treasures, stationery, and local charm.

For dinner, we decided to try Estrela da Serra. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and offered a range of traditional Portuguese dishes. We opted for the pizza, which was surprisingly good, and enjoyed some coffee. The service was fast and friendly, and the prices were reasonable. It was the perfect way to end a long day of exploring. I was impressed with the quality of the food and the friendly service. It's always a pleasure to find a place that combines good food with a welcoming atmosphere.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post under the starry sky, I can’t help but feel grateful for this experience. Serra do Montemuro has exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. I am also glad that I did not forget to pack my camera, so I can share my experiences with the world. Even though I forgot the insect repellent, the beauty of the region makes up for it. Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Poço do Buraco, Briadouro, and Poço Negro [Tomorrow's Itinerary]. I’m excited to see what other hidden gems this region has in store for us. And perhaps we'll stop by Stars Bar for a nightcap [Tomorrow's Itinerary].

Tonight, as I drift off to sleep in my tent, I’ll dream of waterfalls and ancient villages, of friendly faces and delicious food. And I’ll be thankful for the opportunity to experience this incredible journey with Lena and our friends. This trip is not just a break from my routine as a software developer in Berlin; it's a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature and embracing the simple joys of life. It's about creating memories that will last a lifetime, and about appreciating the beauty that exists in the world, far away from the screens and the algorithms that often dominate my daily life. It’s about finding balance and perspective, and about returning to Berlin with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration.