Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

Echoes of the Past: A Day Among Caves, Stones, and Flavors

Today was a day of diving deep—literally and figuratively—into the history and natural beauty of the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. With Mei and Lina in tow, I set out to explore ancient caves, megalithic monuments, and, of course, indulge in the local cuisine. As a family, we’ve always cherished these kinds of immersive experiences, where every stone and every flavor tells a story.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Tombalobos. The aroma of freshly baked bread and local cheeses filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. I made sure to try some of the local Serra de São Mamede cheese. Fuelled up, we headed towards our first destination: the Grutas de Santo António.

Delving into the Depths: Grutas de Santo António

The drive to the caves was scenic, with rolling hills and cork trees dotting the landscape. As we approached the Grutas de Santo António, Lina's eyes widened with anticipation. I must admit, even I felt a thrill of excitement. Having lived in bustling cities like Singapore and Berlin, the quiet mystery of these natural formations was a welcome change. The Grutas de Santo António are part of a network of caves formed approximately 180 million years ago. Imagine, dinosaurs once roamed this very area! It’s humbling to stand in a place with such a deep connection to the Earth’s history.

Inside, the caves were a cool sanctuary from the warm May sun. The formations of stalactites and stalagmites created a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. Lina was fascinated, pointing out shapes that resembled animals and mythical creatures. Mei, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the geological processes that shaped these underground wonders. I found myself somewhere in between, captivated by the sheer beauty and the echoes of time that resonated within the caves. The way the light filtered through the openings created an ethereal glow, highlighting the intricate details of the limestone formations. It’s truly a photographer's dream, and I snapped away, trying to capture the magic of the moment.


Discover the breathtaking Grutas de Santo António, a stunning cave system in Alvados, showcasing nature's beauty through incredible geological formations.

The magic of this 'intramundo' is as great as the stories that surround it.

Emerging from the caves, we felt as though we had travelled back in time. It was a fitting transition to our next stop: the Parque Megalítico dos Coureleiros.

Whispers of the Ancients: Parque Megalítico dos Coureleiros

The Parque Megalítico dos Coureleiros, also known as the Necrópole Megalítica de Coureleiros, is a collection of five Antas (dolmens) dating back to the third and fourth millennia BC. As we drove, I explained to Lina that these were ancient burial chambers, built by people who lived here thousands of years ago. She was intrigued, asking questions about who these people were and what their lives were like.

Walking among the megalithic monuments, I felt a profound sense of connection to the past. These stones, weathered by time, stood as silent witnesses to countless generations. It’s amazing to think about the effort and ingenuity it took to construct these structures with rudimentary tools. Lina enjoyed exploring the area, running around the stones and imagining the ceremonies that might have taken place here. Mei and I discussed the various theories surrounding the purpose of these monuments, from burial sites to astronomical observatories. The mystery surrounding these ancient stones only added to their allure.

The landscape itself was breathtaking, with panoramic views of the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. The rolling hills and open skies created a sense of vastness and tranquility. It was a perfect spot to reflect on the passage of time and the enduring power of human connection to the land. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the people who had come before us, leaving their mark on this landscape in such a profound way.


Uncover ancient mysteries at Parque Megalítico dos Coureleiros, a serene park filled with megalithic wonders in the heart of Portalegre, Portugal.

A Taste of Alentejo: Lunch at A Tasquinha

By now, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to A Tasquinha for lunch. This charming restaurant promised an authentic taste of Alentejo cuisine, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with rustic décor and a friendly atmosphere. We were greeted warmly by the staff and seated at a table overlooking the village square.

We started with local olives and bread, followed by the *Açorda Alentejana*, a traditional bread soup flavored with garlic, coriander, and olive oil. It was simple yet incredibly flavorful, a true taste of the region. For the main course, I opted for the grilled pork with migas, while Mei chose the codfish with roasted vegetables. Lina, always a fan of simpler fare, ordered a grilled chicken breast. Each dish was prepared with care and attention to detail, highlighting the fresh, local ingredients.

As we savored our meal, we discussed the day’s adventures. Lina was particularly excited about the caves, while Mei was fascinated by the megalithic monuments. I enjoyed the combination of history, nature, and, of course, the delicious food. It’s these shared experiences that make our family trips so special, creating lasting memories that we’ll cherish for years to come. The slow pace of life in Alentejo was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of Berlin, allowing us to truly relax and connect with each other.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at A Tasquinha in Portalegre - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Souvenirs and Memories: Casa da Boa Memória

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the village, eventually stumbling upon Casa da Boa Memória. This shop was a treasure trove of local handicrafts, from ceramics to textiles. It was the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs to remind us of our time in the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park.

Lina immediately gravitated towards the colorful ceramics, while Mei was drawn to the intricately woven textiles. I browsed the selection of local wines and olive oils, eventually settling on a bottle of red wine from the region. We chatted with the shop owner, who shared stories about the local artisans and their craft. It was fascinating to learn about the history and traditions behind these beautiful handmade items.

We left Casa da Boa Memória with our bags full of souvenirs and our hearts full of memories. It’s these small, authentic experiences that make traveling so rewarding, connecting us to the local culture and the people who call this place home. As we walked back to our car, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family.


Explore Casa da Boa Memória in Charneca da Caparica - a treasure trove of authentic Portuguese handicrafts and artistic heritage.

Dinner at Restaurante O Cantinho do Pica-Pau

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Restaurante O Cantinho do Pica-Pau for dinner. This restaurant, recommended by a local, promised a delightful culinary experience. After a day of exploring, we were ready to relax and enjoy a good meal.

The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with friendly staff and a cozy ambiance. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by a hearty stew made with wild boar. The flavors were rich and complex, reflecting the region’s culinary heritage. Lina, surprisingly, enjoyed the stew, while Mei savored the grilled vegetables. I paired our meal with a local red wine, which complemented the flavors perfectly.

As we dined, we reflected on the day’s adventures. From the depths of the Grutas de Santo António to the ancient stones of the Parque Megalítico dos Coureleiros, we had journeyed through time, connecting with the history and natural beauty of the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. It was a day of shared experiences, laughter, and delicious food, creating memories that we would cherish for years to come.

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” This quote by Aldous Huxley resonates deeply with me after today’s experiences. It reminds me that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about challenging our preconceived notions and opening our minds to new perspectives.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Trilho da Barca d'Amieira and the Ermida de São Mamede [see tomorrow's itinerary]. I’m particularly excited about the hike, as it promises stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Plus, we're hoping to check out O Castelo - Café Lounge for a nightcap [see tomorrow's itinerary]. Until then, *boa noite* from Serra de São Mamede!

It's moments like these, surrounded by family and immersed in the beauty of a new place, that make all the challenges of travel worthwhile. As I reflect on our day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. The Serra de São Mamede Natural Park has already captured my heart, and I can't wait to explore more of its hidden treasures.