Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Serra do Montemuro with Friends

A Day of Discovery in Montemuro

Today marked another incredible chapter in our Serra do Montemuro adventure. With my friends by my side, I was eager to dive deeper into the heart of this stunning region. We set out with a blend of anticipation and excitement, ready to embrace both the natural beauty and the local culture that awaited us. The day was filled with exploration, delicious food, and moments of genuine connection, making it a perfect encapsulation of why I love to travel.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Solar do Montemuro. Nestled on the slopes of the Serra, the views from the restaurant were breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the Douro and Bestança rivers. The morning air was crisp, and the promise of a full day of hiking energized us. I opted for a traditional Portuguese breakfast of fresh bread, local cheese, and strong coffee. The others chose similar fare, and we all enjoyed the warmth of the restaurant and the friendly chatter of locals starting their day. It felt like the perfect way to fuel up before hitting the trails. The restaurant is known for its traditional dishes, and I made a mental note to return for dinner another evening to sample their posta arouquesa or vitela assada.


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

With our bellies full, we set off to tackle a portion of the GR47 - Grande Rota de Montemuro. This extensive hiking trail winds through the heart of the Serra, offering a chance to experience the region's diverse landscapes up close. We chose a segment that promised a mix of challenging climbs and rewarding views. As we started our trek, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the cooler weather of the morning, as the summer sun can be quite intense. I was glad I had packed my trusty hiking boots and a reliable map, though I did regret forgetting the insect repellent – a lesson learned for future hikes!


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Grande Rota de Montemuro, a premier hiking destination in Alhões, Portugal, perfect for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers.

The trail was a tapestry of sights and sounds. Towering granite peaks loomed in the distance, while closer by, wildflowers dotted the landscape with vibrant splashes of color. The air was filled with the chirping of birds and the gentle rustling of leaves. The path was well-marked, but there were still moments when we had to navigate carefully over rocky terrain. We helped each other over the steeper sections, sharing laughs and words of encouragement. I paused frequently to take photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the scenery. Lena would have loved this, I thought, missing her eye for detail. I made a mental note to show her all the pictures and videos when I got back to Berlin, hoping to bring a piece of this adventure back home to share with her.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

As we hiked, we stumbled upon Fonte de Marcelim, a charming natural spring. The cool, clear water was a welcome respite, and we took a moment to refill our water bottles and splash our faces. The area around the spring was lush and green, a stark contrast to the drier landscape we had been traversing. We sat for a few minutes, enjoying the tranquility of the spot and listening to the gentle sound of the water flowing. According to some information I read, there's an Observatório da Natureza de Marcelim nearby, offering panoramic views of the Bestança River valley and the Douro River. I made a mental note to check it out sometime, as the description sounded captivating.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Fonte de Marcelim, a hidden spring in Tendais, Portugal, perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Continuing on, we eventually made our way to Parque de Lazer de Pias, a delightful leisure park nestled alongside the Bestança River. This park was a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities. We found a picnic table and spread out the lunch we had packed: sandwiches, fruit, and some local pastries we had picked up in the morning. The park was bustling with families enjoying the sunny afternoon. Kids were playing by the river, and the aroma of barbecue filled the air. After lunch, we explored the park a bit more, discovering a small bar with an esplanade called Refúgio do Bestança. We decided to treat ourselves to some cold drinks, savoring the moment and enjoying the lively atmosphere.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Parque de Lazer de Pias, Cinfães' premier green space for relaxation, play, and nature walks.

After our relaxing break, we decided to explore a bit of the local commerce and headed to Serra & Pereira, Lda., a local shop. I was curious to see what local products they offered. The shop was a treasure trove of regional goods, from locally produced cheeses and cured meats to handcrafted souvenirs. I picked up some local honey and a small ceramic figure as a memento of our trip. My friends bought some postcards and a bottle of local wine. It was great to support the local economy and find unique items that we wouldn't find anywhere else.


Explore the heart of Viseu at Serra & Pereira, Lda., where local craftsmanship meets the charm of Portuguese culture.

As evening approached, we made our way to Estrela da Serra for dinner. The restaurant was located in a scenic spot, offering stunning views of the Serra. We were all eager to try some authentic Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive. I opted for the carne arouquesa, a regional specialty, while my friends chose a variety of dishes, including grilled fish and roasted vegetables. The food was delicious, and we savored every bite, accompanied by a bottle of local red wine. The portions were generous, and we left feeling completely satisfied.


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

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciate these moments of connection with nature and friends. Serra do Montemuro continues to surprise and delight me with its hidden gems and warm hospitality. As I sit here writing this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We plan to visit Baloiço do Bestança, Cascata de Ponte de Vila, and Moinhos da Rocha [Baloiço do Bestança, Cascata de Ponte de Vila, and Moinhos da Rocha]. I am also looking forward to potentially stopping at Guarita Light, a local bar, for a nightcap [Baloiço do Bestança, Cascata de Ponte de Vila, and Moinhos da Rocha]. Each day here brings new experiences and unforgettable memories, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds. The blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and good company makes this trip truly special.

Before heading back to our campsite, we took a moment to stargaze. The night sky in Serra do Montemuro is incredibly clear, far from the light pollution of Berlin. We lay on our backs, pointing out constellations and sharing stories. It was a perfect end to a perfect day, a reminder of the simple joys in life and the importance of cherishing these moments with friends. As I drifted off to sleep, I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for this incredible journey.

Tomorrow, we continue our exploration, venturing further into the heart of Serra do Montemuro. I am excited to see what new wonders await us and to create even more lasting memories with my friends.