Solo Escape to Serra do Montemuro

A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of soaring heights and panoramic vistas. Serra do Montemuro truly unveiled its majestic beauty, offering views that stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a day to breathe in the crisp mountain air and feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of Berlin.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Sabores De Montemuro. I savored every bite, knowing I needed the energy for the day's adventures. The restaurant was cozy, and the aromas of traditional Portuguese cooking filled the air. It was a perfect start, setting me up for a day of exploration. I opted for the Alheira com broa frita, which was delicious.


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

First on the itinerary was the Observatório de Natureza da Senhora do Castelo. The drive up was an adventure in itself, with winding roads that offered glimpses of the stunning landscape. As I ascended, the air grew cooler, and the views became more dramatic. Reaching the Observatório, I was immediately struck by the 360º panoramic view. From this vantage point, I could see the Douro Valley, the Serra da Estrela, and even the city of Porto in the distance. It felt like standing on top of the world, a truly awe-inspiring experience.


Explore the natural beauty and wildlife at the Observatório de Natureza da Senhora do Castelo, a must-visit destination in Portugal for nature enthusiasts.

I spent a good hour at the Observatório, taking photos and simply soaking in the scenery. The crisp mountain air invigorated me, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me. It was a reminder of why I love solo travel – the freedom to explore at my own pace and connect with nature on a deeper level. As I was taking pictures, I thought about how different this was from the street art scene in Berlin, yet equally inspiring.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet solitude of nature, where the world unfolds in breathtaking panoramas.

Next on the list was Miradouro de Aveloso. The drive to Aveloso was equally scenic, and I found myself pulling over several times to capture the beauty of the landscape. When I arrived at the Miradouro, I was greeted by another stunning view. This vantage point offered a different perspective of the Serra do Montemuro, with rolling hills and quaint villages dotting the landscape. I could see the Bestança and Douro rivers winding their way through the valleys.


Experience the serene beauty of Portugal at Miradouro de Aveloso, a hiker's paradise offering stunning panoramic views and tranquil nature.

I took some time to wander around the area, exploring the small village and admiring the traditional architecture. The locals were friendly and welcoming, and I enjoyed a brief conversation with an elderly woman who shared stories about the history of the region. It's these small interactions that make travel so enriching, offering a glimpse into the lives and cultures of the people who call these places home.

Lunch was at Estrela da Serra, a local restaurant known for its regional specialties and pizzas. I decided to try the carne arouquesa, a traditional beef dish that was absolutely delicious. The meat was tender and flavorful, and it was the perfect fuel for the rest of my day. The restaurant also had a lovely view of the Serra do Montemuro, making for a memorable dining experience.


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

Before heading back to my accommodation, I made a quick stop at Papelaria Diverlippa. I wanted to pick up a few postcards to send to friends and family back home. It's a small thing, but I like to share my experiences with loved ones, letting them know I'm thinking of them as I explore the world. I found a few charming postcards featuring scenes from Serra do Montemuro, which I knew they would appreciate.


Discover your creative side at Papelaria Diverlippa, Castro Daire's premier craft store, offering an array of supplies and expert advice.

For dinner, I decided to try Restaurante Solar do Montemuro. This restaurant is known as the Catedral Gastronómica” of the region, and I was eager to experience it for myself. The setting was stunning, with panoramic views of the Douro and Bestança rivers. The restaurant itself was beautiful, with a traditional design and a cozy atmosphere. I started with the papas de perdiz, a partridge porridge that was a local delicacy. For the main course, I had the posta arouquesa, which was cooked to perfection. The service was impeccable, and the staff made me feel welcome and at home.


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

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on my experiences in Serra do Montemuro. It had been a day of breathtaking views, delicious food, and enriching cultural encounters. I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this hidden gem of Portugal, a place where nature reigns supreme and the local culture is vibrant and authentic. It was a day that reminded me of the beauty and diversity of our world, and the importance of seeking out new experiences and perspectives.

Tomorrow, I’m heading to Parque botânico do Paiva and Museu Serpa Pinto. I'm looking forward to more adventures and discoveries as my solo journey through Portugal continues. I might even check out Riviera Club for a nightcap. Until then, boa noite from Serra do Montemuro!

I'm also realizing that I forgot my lightweight rain jacket and portable Wi-Fi hotspot back in Berlin. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

The solitude of the mountains allowed me to think about my life back in Berlin, my work as a freelance content writer, and my salsa dancing classes. It felt good to disconnect and reconnect with myself in such a serene environment.

What a day!