A Solo Escape to Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

Arrival in Serra de São Mamede

The journey to Serra de São Mamede was an adventure in itself, trading the familiar streets of Potsdam for the rustic charm of the Alentejo region. Today marked the beginning of my solo retreat, a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. As a mobile app developer, I spend countless hours immersed in code, so the prospect of spending a week hiking and exploring a natural park was incredibly appealing. I was eager to discover the unique landscapes and savor the local culture that this corner of Portugal had to offer.


Explore the breathtaking Serra de São Mamede, a mountain peak in Portugal offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
The flight to Lisbon was smooth, and the subsequent train ride to Marvão offered glimpses of Portugal's diverse landscapes. Arriving in Marvão felt like stepping back in time. The crisp November air carried the scent of wood smoke and damp earth, a welcome change from the city's sterile atmosphere. I checked into a quaint guesthouse, its walls adorned with traditional Alentejo tiles, and immediately set out to explore.

My first stop was the Restaurante Varanda do Alentejo for breakfast. The location offered spectacular views, reaching into Spain. I enjoyed a hearty Alentejo breakfast, complete with local cheeses, freshly baked bread, and strong coffee, while I planned my itinerary for the day. The friendly staff shared tips on the best hiking trails and viewpoints, their enthusiasm for the region infectious.


Experience authentic Alentejan cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurante Varanda do Alentejo in Marvão.
Fueled and ready, I ventured into the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. The park is known as an island of lush vegetation in an arid region. The trails were well-marked, and I chose a moderate route that promised panoramic views. As I ascended, the landscape transformed from rolling hills to rocky ridges, with forests of cork oak and chestnut trees lining the path.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede, a national park rich in wildlife, hiking trails, and cultural heritage.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The air was alive with the sounds of nature – birdsong, rustling leaves, and the distant bleating of sheep. I paused frequently to capture the scenery with my camera, the vibrant colors and textures a stark contrast to the muted tones of Berlin in autumn. I even managed to spot a few griffon vultures soaring overhead, their impressive wingspans a testament to the park's rich biodiversity.

The park is an important refuge for various species, including eagles and the Iberian lynx. The panoramic views from the higher elevations were breathtaking, encompassing the Serra de São Mamede range and the Spanish mountains to the east.

For lunch, I stopped at Restaurante Aida. It was a delightful culinary experience where I tried some exquisite grilled dishes. It had a welcoming atmosphere, and I enjoyed the authentic Portuguese cuisine.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Aida with exquisite grilled dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
After a fulfilling hike, I decided to treat myself to a well-deserved dinner at Tombalobos. This restaurant, nestled within the historic center of Portalegre, is renowned for its traditional Alentejo cuisine and cozy ambiance. The chef, José Júlio Vintém, is known for transforming local ingredients into unique dishes that showcase the region's culinary heritage. I savored every bite of the *orelha de porco assada* (roasted pig ear) and *bocechas de porco assadas no forno* (oven-roasted pork cheeks), accompanied by a glass of robust Alentejo red wine. The meal was a true celebration of local flavors, a perfect end to a day of exploration.


Discover Tombalobos: A Culinary Haven in Portalegre Offering Authentic Alentejo Cuisine and Exceptional Service.
As the evening drew to a close, I made my way to The Gin Library + Outdoor Terrace. This unique bar boasts an impressive collection of gins from around the world. I sampled a local gin, expertly crafted with botanicals from the Serra de São Mamede, while enjoying the cool night air on the outdoor terrace. The Gin Library is home to Europe's largest gin collection. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, with fellow travelers sharing stories and laughter. The owner, Ali Bullock, has traveled to dozens of countries in search of the best gins.


Immerse yourself in the exquisite world of gin at The Gin Library + Outdoor Terrace, where nature and flavor harmoniously blend.
Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a moment to reflect on the day's adventures. Serra de São Mamede had already exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and culinary delights. I felt a sense of peace and contentment, a welcome respite from the stresses of modern life. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of tomorrow's hike to Alto da Serra de São Mamede and Cascata da Cabroeira, eager to discover more of this hidden gem. I was also looking forward to breakfast at A Tasquinha, lunch at Restaurante Ribeirinho, and dinner at Sabores Do Norte Alentejo. I was also thinking of visiting Marvão Adventure. I drifted off to sleep, already excited for the adventures tomorrow would bring.

This solo journey is turning out to be exactly what I needed – a chance to recharge, reconnect with nature, and discover the simple pleasures of life. Perhaps this experience will even inspire a new feature for my tourism app, something that encourages users to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and embrace sustainable travel practices. Only time will tell, but for now, I'm content to simply soak in the beauty and tranquility of Serra de São Mamede.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Alto da Serra de São Mamede and Cascata da Cabroeira. I am also looking forward to breakfast at A Tasquinha, lunch at Restaurante Ribeirinho, and dinner at Sabores Do Norte Alentejo. If time permits I will visit Marvão Adventure.