Solo Escape to Serra do Montemuro

Day 2: Nature's Embrace and Village Charms

Today was all about surrendering to the serene embrace of Serra do Montemuro. After a fulfilling first day, I was eager to delve deeper into what this region had to offer. My explorations led me to cascading waterfalls, ancient villages, and panoramic views that stretched as far as the eye could see.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Sabores De Montemuro. Fuelled up with local flavors, I set off to Cascata de Barrondes, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Serra. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering glimpses of the dramatic landscape. When I arrived, the sight of the waterfall was simply breathtaking. The water cascaded down the rocks, creating a mesmerizing symphony of sound and motion. I spent a good hour simply soaking in the beauty of the falls, feeling the cool spray on my face and listening to the soothing sounds of nature.


Explore the breathtaking Cascata de Barrondes, a hidden gem in Portugal featuring stunning waterfalls and serene natural landscapes for unforgettable adventures.

The Cascata de Barrondes is nestled in the picturesque village of Fermentãos. The location is rural, dominated by verdant valleys and gentle hills. The waterfall is part of the Parque de Lazer de Barrondes, a perfect place to appreciate the crystal-clear waters.

Leaving the Cascata de Barrondes, I felt a sense of invigoration that only nature can provide. My next stop was Aldeias de Montemuro, a cluster of ancient villages that dot the landscape. Each village seemed to have its own unique character and story to tell. The stone houses, narrow streets, and traditional architecture transported me back in time. I wandered through the villages, chatting with locals and learning about their way of life. It was a humbling experience to witness their resilience and connection to the land.


Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Aldeias de Montemuro, a hidden gem in Portugal's stunning landscape.

I stopped by Papelaria Montemuro, a local shop, and picked up a few postcards to send to friends back in Berlin. I always love finding unique souvenirs that capture the essence of a place, and these postcards seemed to do just that. Plus, supporting local businesses is something I always try to prioritize during my travels.


Explore the enchanting Papelaria Montemuro in Castro Daire, a must-visit bookstore filled with literary treasures, stationery, and local charm.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

For lunch, I ventured to Estrela da Serra, a restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. The cozy ambiance and rustic mountain views made it the perfect place to relax and refuel after a morning of exploration. I savored a delicious meal of regional specialties, accompanied by a glass of local wine. The flavors were rich and authentic, a true reflection of the Serra do Montemuro's culinary heritage.


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

After lunch, I decided to explore Fragas da Penavilheira. The geological phenomenon of knickpoints that formed these crags is truly fascinating. The Bestança River, which runs through the crags, has the highest number of these knickpoints in the Douro basin. The landscape is marked by imposing crags and unique waterfalls. The surrounding area is shaped by human hands, with canals carrying water to agricultural lands. I was in awe of the power of nature and the way it had shaped this landscape over millions of years.


Explore Fragas da Penavilheira: A Stunning Natural Haven of Waterfalls and Lush Trails in the Heart of Portugal.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Restaurante Solar do Montemuro for dinner. This restaurant is known for having panoramic views of the Bestança River and the Douro River. The restaurant is built to take advantage of the water running down the Serra do Montemuro. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, savoring delicious food while watching the sunset over the mountains.


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

The Restaurante Solar do Montemuro is a typical restaurant with a cozy atmosphere. The decor is simple and elegant, harmonizing with the surrounding environment. In the winter, there is a fireplace, and in the summer, there is a large terrace. The restaurant is known for its grilled Arouquesa steak, roasted veal, and Portuguese stew.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Serra do Montemuro. It was a day of simple pleasures, of connecting with nature and discovering the hidden gems of this region. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, with plans to visit Poço do Buraco and Briadouro. Perhaps I'll even treat myself to a drink at Stars Bar in the evening. As I prepare for another day of exploration, I'm reminded of why I love solo travel so much. It's about embracing the unknown, connecting with new cultures, and discovering hidden gems along the way. And who knows, maybe I'll even pick up a lightweight rain jacket – a lesson learned from forgetting it today!

As I mentioned yesterday, I’m still kicking myself for forgetting my lightweight rain jacket and portable Wi-Fi hotspot. I made a mental note to double-check my packing list before heading out tomorrow. After dinner, I retreated to my guesthouse, eager to recharge for another day of exploration. The promise of discovering more hidden gems in Serra do Montemuro filled me with anticipation.

Before drifting off to sleep, I journaled about my experiences, capturing the essence of the day's adventures. As a freelance content writer and social media manager, I find that travel journaling helps me process my thoughts and emotions, while also providing valuable material for my blog. It's a way for me to share my experiences with others and inspire them to embark on their own journeys of discovery. And who knows, maybe my stories will even encourage someone to visit Serra do Montemuro and experience its magic firsthand. Good night, Serra do Montemuro. Tomorrow, I'm ready for you.