A Solo Escape to Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

A Day of Castles and Caves

Today marked the final day of my solo adventure in Portugal, and I wanted to make it count. I decided to venture beyond the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park to explore some nearby historical and natural wonders. It was a day of contrasts, from the heights of a medieval castle to the depths of an awe-inspiring cave, and it left me with a profound appreciation for the diverse beauty of this country.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Regata in Porto de Mós. I fueled up with some strong coffee and a traditional pastry, ready for a day of exploration. I've always enjoyed a good breakfast, especially when I know I'll be doing a lot of walking.

A Royal Fortress: Castelo de Porto de Mós

The first stop was the Castelo de Porto de Mós. As I approached, the castle's green-topped towers stood out against the clear morning sky. It felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The castle has a rich history, originally a Moorish stronghold, later conquered by Dom Afonso Henriques. Walking through the castle grounds, I could almost hear the echoes of knights and royalty.

The architecture is a blend of military, Gothic, and Renaissance influences. I learned that King Dinis gifted the castle to his wife, Queen Isabel of Aragon, adding a touch of romance to its storied past. The views from the top were breathtaking, overlooking the valley of Lena and the Serra dos Candeeiros. It was easy to imagine the strategic importance of this location throughout history.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

The castle's pentagonal layout is quite unique, with reinforced towers at each corner. I spent a good hour wandering through the courtyards and climbing the towers, soaking in the atmosphere and imagining what life must have been like within those walls. The green ceramic cones atop the towers are a distinctive feature, possibly linked to Afonso, the 4th Count of Ourém.


Explore the stunning Castelo de Porto de Mós, a magnificent medieval landmark offering breathtaking views and a rich historical experience in Portugal.

Delving into the Earth: Mira de Aire Cave

After immersing myself in history, it was time for a change of scenery. I drove to Mira de Aire Cave, eager to explore Portugal's largest cave network. The descent into the cave was dramatic, leading me down hundreds of steps into the earth. The temperature dropped noticeably, a welcome change from the mild autumn air outside.

The cave is a wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes. The lighting effects enhanced the natural beauty of the formations, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. I joined a guided tour, learning about the cave's geology and the fascinating process of its formation.

The scale of the cave is truly impressive; it spans over 15km, though the tour covers about 600 meters. The walkways and stairs are well-maintained, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. At the end of the trail, an elevator whisked us back to the surface.

One of the most striking features was the underground river, cascading into a large lake. The reflections on the water created an ethereal effect, making me feel like I was in another world. I couldn't help but think of Mateo and how much he would have loved exploring this subterranean realm. Maybe next time Klara and Mateo can join me on an adventure like this.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mira de Aire Cave, a hidden gem in Portugal featuring stunning rock formations and a fascinating underground world.

A Taste of Alentejo and a Farewell Drink

After a day of exploring, I was ready for a good meal. I headed to Restaurante Clube Alentejo - Vocacionado para grupos for lunch. The restaurant specializes in traditional Alentejo cuisine, and I was eager to try some local specialties. I savored a hearty stew, rich with flavors and spices, and reflected on my journey through Portugal. It was the perfect way to end my exploration of the region. I find that food is a great way to experience the culture of a place.

With the day drawing to a close, I decided to unwind at Sem Stress, a local bar in Porto de Mós. I enjoyed a glass of Portuguese wine, savoring the moment and the memories I'd made during my solo trip. It was a fitting end to my Portuguese adventure, a moment of peace and reflection before heading back to Potsdam.

Final Thoughts

My week in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park and its surroundings has been an incredible experience. From the stunning landscapes to the rich history and warm hospitality, Portugal has captured my heart. This trip reminded me of the importance of taking time for myself, disconnecting from the digital world, and reconnecting with nature and history. As a mobile app developer, I'm constantly immersed in technology, so these moments of escape are essential for my well-being.

As I prepare to leave, I'm already thinking about my next adventure. Perhaps I'll explore more of Portugal, or maybe I'll venture to another corner of the world. Whatever the destination, I know that travel will always be an essential part of my life.

Tomorrow I will be heading back to Lisbon and then back to Berlin. It's always bittersweet to end a trip, but I'm excited to see Klara and Mateo again and share my stories with them. Until next time, Portugal!

The final day was quite fulfilling, and I am looking forward to sharing my experiences with Klara and Mateo when I get back to Potsdam. I am also excited to get back to work on my tourism app, with renewed inspiration from my travels.