Solo Escape to Serra do Montemuro

A Day of Discoveries
Today was all about embracing the unexpected. I set out with a rough plan, but the real magic happened when I veered off the beaten path and stumbled upon hidden waterfalls, breathtaking vistas, and the kind of authentic local experiences that make a trip truly memorable.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Solar do Montemuro. I fueled up with some strong coffee and a traditional Portuguese pastry. The reviews online mentioned the excellent value and quality, and I can attest to that. It’s the perfect way to start a day of exploring. Apparently, their "rabana" is a must-try, according to one reviewer. I'll have to make sure to try that before I leave the area. This place is known for its cozy atmosphere and regional dishes. Seems like a great choice for dinner too, if you're looking for a taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its meat dishes and friendly service. It seems like a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.


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

With a full stomach, I set off to find Poço do Buraco. The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Serra do Montemuro. The landscape here is truly something special. Serra do Montemuro is the eighth largest elevation in Continental Portugal. The average altitude is 838 meters. The highest point is called Talegre or Talefe, at 1,381 meters of altitude. Nestled within the Serra do Montemuro, Poço do Buraco is one of those places that photos simply can't do justice. The cascade was magnificent, the water crystal clear and so very inviting. The sunlight dappled through the trees, creating an ethereal glow around the falls. I spent a good hour simply sitting on a rock, listening to the water and soaking in the tranquility. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of why I love solo travel so much.


Explore the stunning natural beauty of Poço do Buraco in Parada de Ester, a tranquil oasis for nature lovers and adventurers in Portugal.

Continuing my exploration, I headed towards Briadouro. The views from here were simply outstanding. From what I could gather, Briadouro is a scenic spot known for its panoramic vistas of the Serra do Montemuro. The air was crisp and clean, and the vastness of the landscape stretched out before me. I could see for miles in every direction. I took some photos, of course, but it's impossible to truly capture the feeling of standing on top of the world like that. I was able to see the granite massif of Serra da Estrela.


Explore Briadouro in Parada de Ester, a scenic tourist attraction blending nature's beauty and rich cultural heritage in Portugal.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones you don't plan.

Lunch was at Sabores De Montemuro, and it was an experience in itself. This restaurant seems to be popular for its pizzas and meat dishes. I opted for a traditional Portuguese dish – "posta à moda de Arouca" – and it was absolutely delicious. The meat was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, and the portion was generous. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making me feel right at home. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is beautiful.


Discover Sabores De Montemuro in Cinfães - A culinary destination offering exquisite steaks and traditional Portuguese cuisine in a warm atmosphere.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, I made my way to Stars Bar for a relaxing evening. I nursed a glass of local wine, reflecting on the day's adventures. The bar had a laid-back vibe, and I struck up a conversation with a friendly local who shared some interesting stories about the region. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to connect with people and learn about different cultures. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience the local charm at Stars Bar in Picão, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await every traveler.

Dinner was at Estrela da Serra, a cozy restaurant recommended by a local I met at Stars Bar. I decided to try their specialty, the "Queijo Serra da Estrela". It's a handmade cheese that’s unique to this region. It was served with rustic bread, and the combination was heavenly. Apparently, the cheese is so good that it graces everything from fashion collections to the walls of Microsoft's Lisbon offices.


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

The Serra da Estrela cheese is almost indecently buttery, tangy and gooey. It’s best eaten with the top sliced off, like a lid, spooning out the nearly liquid centre with rustic bread. The restaurant itself had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were attentive and friendly. I felt like I was dining in someone's home. I might have to come back to Estrela da Serra again before I leave the area.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited to explore the GR47 - Grande Rota de Montemuro. This hiking trail promises even more stunning views and a chance to immerse myself in the natural beauty of the region. I'm also planning to visit Fonte de Marcelim, a natural spring known for its pure, refreshing water. I'm also planning to stop by Serra & Pereira, Lda. to pick up some local products.

As I sit here in my guesthouse, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Serra do Montemuro has exceeded all of my expectations. It's a place of natural beauty, warm hospitality, and authentic culture. If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that will nourish your soul, look no further than Serra do Montemuro. Tomorrow, I plan to continue my journey through this enchanting region, seeking out new adventures and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

This solo trip to Serra do Montemuro is exactly what I needed. As a freelance content writer and social media manager based in Berlin, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of city life. But these past few days have reminded me of the importance of disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature. It's a chance to recharge my creative batteries and gain fresh perspectives. Plus, it's an opportunity to indulge in my passions for photography, culinary arts, and learning about different cultures. I'm already looking forward to sharing my experiences with my audience and inspiring them to embark on their own solo adventures.

I'm considering making a stop at Alambique Hotel Resort & Spa in Fundão. It seems like a great place to relax and unwind after a long day of hiking. The hotel has a restaurant that’s considered a gastronomic reference in the region. Plus, it has a health club with wellness facilities. It might be a good idea to treat myself to a spa treatment before heading back to Berlin.

The region is part of the Natura 2000 network because of its rich fauna and flora. The mountain range is located between the Douro Litoral and Beira Alta regions. It is enclosed to the north by the Douro River and to the south by the Paiva River. I have noticed that many of the villages are located near water sources.