Solo Escape to Serra do Montemuro

Whispers of the Past and Tastes of Tradition

Today was a day of immersing myself in the heart of Serra do Montemuro, a place where time seems to slow down and the beauty of nature intertwines with the rich tapestry of Portuguese culture. I set out with a sense of anticipation, eager to uncover the hidden gems that this mountain range had to offer. The day unfolded as a symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors, leaving me with a profound appreciation for the simple yet profound joys of travel.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Sabores De Montemuro. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air as I stepped inside. I savored every bite, knowing that I needed the energy for the day’s adventures. It was a simple meal, but it was prepared with love and care, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead.

Fueled up, I headed towards Moinhos da Rocha, a collection of ancient mills nestled in a valley. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the landscape. As I arrived, the gentle sound of water flowing through the old mill streams filled the air. Exploring the area, I imagined the lives of the millers who once worked here, their days filled with the rhythmic turning of the water wheel and the scent of freshly ground flour. It was a humbling experience, connecting me to the past in a tangible way.


Discover the serene beauty of Moinhos da Rocha, a hidden gem in Castro Daire showcasing traditional watermills and stunning natural landscapes.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on the agenda was Miradouro de Teixeirô, a viewpoint promising breathtaking vistas. The drive up was steep, but the anticipation of the view kept me going. As I reached the top, I was rewarded with a panorama that stretched as far as the eye could see. The Douro River snaked its way through the valleys below, and the rolling hills seemed to go on forever. I took a moment to simply breathe it all in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty.


Discover Miradouro de Teixeirô: A stunning viewpoint in Cinfães with breathtaking views of the Douro River and surrounding landscapes.

Lunch was at Restaurante Solar do Montemuro, a place that came highly recommended. The restaurant is known as a 'Gastronomic Cathedral'. The building was positioned to make the most of the water flowing through the mountains. I opted for a traditional dish of posta arouquesa, a tender cut of beef that melted in my mouth. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but think about my abuela's cooking back in Salinas, Puerto Rico, and the way she poured her heart and soul into every dish.


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

With my belly full and my spirits high, I decided to do some shopping at Céu Aberto - Decoração De Interiores, Lda. I am always on the lookout for unique finds to spice up my apartment in Berlin, and this place had just what I needed. I picked up a few handcrafted items, each one a testament to the skill and artistry of the local artisans. Supporting local businesses is important to me, and I knew that my purchases would make a difference in the lives of the people who created them.


Discover the artistic blend of contemporary and traditional design at Céu Aberto – your ultimate destination for exquisite home décor in Castro Daire.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Estrela da Serra for dinner. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff welcomed me with open arms. I ordered a pizza, a simple pleasure that always brings a smile to my face. As I ate, I reflected on the day’s adventures, feeling grateful for the experiences I had and the people I met.


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

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Penedo da Moura de Colo de Pito and Queda água, further immersing myself in the natural beauty of Serra do Montemuro. I'm also looking forward to trying Alkunhas 74 Bar, hoping to experience the local nightlife and maybe even pick up a few new salsa moves to bring back to Berlin.

My journey through Serra do Montemuro continues to be a rewarding experience. Each day brings new discoveries, new connections, and new reasons to appreciate the beauty of the world around us. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, why I love to explore, and why I love to share my experiences with all of you.

The experiences of the day reminded me of a quote I once heard from a fellow traveler:

    “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”

And that is what I hope to do with my blog, to be a storyteller, to share my experiences, and to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of discovery.

Until tomorrow!