Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

A Day of Discoveries

Today was all about embracing the unexpected turns and hidden treasures within Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. We set out with a plan, but as any seasoned traveler knows, the best experiences often come when you least expect them. It was a day filled with the soothing sounds of water, the whispers of history, and the warmth of Alentejo hospitality.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sabores Do Norte Alentejo - Empreendimentos Turísticos, Lda. I must admit, I was a bit skeptical about trying Alentejo cuisine, as I generally prefer the lighter fare of my native Singapore. However, Mei insisted, and I am glad she did. The breakfast was a delightful surprise, featuring local cheeses, freshly baked bread, and strong coffee that gave me the perfect jolt to start the day. Lina enjoyed some fresh fruit, fueling up for our morning adventure. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes back in Berlin, bringing a taste of Portugal to our kitchen.

Fueled and ready, we set our sights on Cascata da Cabroeira. The drive itself was a treat, winding through the park's scenic roads. The landscape was a mix of rolling hills, cork oak forests, and granite outcrops. It was quite different from the image I had of Alentejo, which I had always imagined to be just vast plains. The Serra de São Mamede Natural Park is a welcome surprise, a mountainous haven teeming with biodiversity.

The hike to the waterfall was a bit more challenging than we anticipated. I had forgotten our rain jackets, a rookie mistake considering my meticulous packing list. The trail was somewhat rocky and uneven, and Lina needed a bit of encouragement to keep going. Mei, ever the nature enthusiast, pointed out various plants and birds along the way, turning the hike into an impromptu lesson on local flora and fauna. Despite the initial hurdles, the anticipation of reaching the waterfall kept us motivated. The weather was cooperative, with the sun peeking through the clouds, casting a magical glow on the landscape.

As we neared the falls, the sound of rushing water grew louder, and the air became noticeably cooler. Cascata da Cabroeira was a sight to behold! The water cascaded down the rocks into a small pool below, creating a refreshing mist. We spent a good hour there, taking photos, enjoying the scenery, and simply soaking in the tranquility of the place. Lina, of course, couldn't resist dipping her toes in the water, much to Mei's amusement. It was a perfect spot for a family moment, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascata da Cabroeira, a stunning waterfall in São Julião, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found off the beaten path.

After our waterfall adventure, we drove to Castelo de Vide, a historic town known for its well-preserved Judiaria de Castelo de Vide. Before exploring the Judiaria, we stopped for lunch at Restaurante Aida. The restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and the menu featured traditional Alentejo dishes. I decided to try the migas, a local specialty made with bread, garlic, and pork. It was hearty and flavorful, a true taste of the region. Mei opted for a vegetable soup, while Lina enjoyed a simple but delicious grilled chicken. It was interesting to learn that Castelo de Vide is sometimes called the Sintra of Alentejo due to its geographical context as a mountain village and its historical Judiaria.

The Judiaria de Castelo de Vide was a fascinating step back in time. The narrow, winding streets and whitewashed houses exuded a sense of history and resilience. We visited the old synagogue, now a museum, and learned about the Jewish community that thrived here centuries ago. It was particularly poignant to hear about the Spanish Jews who sought refuge in Castelo de Vide after 1492. The Judiaria is a testament to the town's rich cultural heritage and its role as a safe haven for those fleeing persecution.


Discover the rich Jewish heritage of Castelo de Vide in Judiaria, a charming neighborhood filled with history, beauty, and cultural significance.

As we wandered through the Judiaria, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of preserving such historical sites. They offer a tangible connection to the past and remind us of the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us. Lina, surprisingly, was quite engaged, asking questions about the people who lived there and their way of life. It was a valuable learning experience for her, bringing history to life in a way that textbooks simply can't.

In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of relaxation at The Gin Library + Outdoor Terrace. While not my usual choice (I am more of a beer guy), Mei had read great reviews about their gin selection and outdoor seating area. The Gin Library was indeed a pleasant surprise, with a wide variety of gins and a charming terrace overlooking the town. I sampled a local gin infused with Alentejo herbs, while Mei enjoyed a classic gin and tonic. Lina, of course, was happy with her juice. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring, enjoying the sunset and the peaceful ambiance of Castelo de Vide.


Immerse yourself in the exquisite world of gin at The Gin Library + Outdoor Terrace, where nature and flavor harmoniously blend.

For dinner, we chose Cova Funda, a restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. By the end of the day, I was keen to try more of the local cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic décor that added to its charm. We ordered a variety of dishes, including arroz de marisco (seafood rice), carne de porco à alentejana (pork with clams), and some local cheeses. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was a perfect way to end our day, savoring the flavors of Alentejo and reflecting on our adventures.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Cova Funda in São Miguel do Rio Torto - where every meal tells a story.

As I write this, back at our guesthouse, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had today. Serra de São Mamede Natural Park has exceeded my expectations, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and culinary delights. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Grutas de Santo António and Parque megalítico dos Coureleiros [Tomorrow's itinerary]. I am particularly excited about visiting the caves, as I have always been fascinated by geology and underground formations. Before that though, we'll grab a quick breakfast at Tombalobos [Tomorrow's itinerary]! I'm also looking forward to discovering more about the megalithic park, learning about the ancient civilizations that once inhabited this region.

The unexpected rain jacket mishap aside, today was a resounding success, filled with laughter, learning, and unforgettable moments. It's days like these that make traveling with family so rewarding, creating memories that will last a lifetime.