Solo Escape to Serra do Montemuro

A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of immersion, of truly feeling the raw, untamed heart of Serra do Montemuro. Leaving behind the cozy embrace of my guesthouse, I set out to tackle a portion of the GR47 – Grande Rota de Montemuro – a trail that promised panoramic views and a deep dive into the region's soul. My legs are tired, but my spirit is soaring.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Grande Rota de Montemuro, a premier hiking destination in Alhões, Portugal, perfect for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers.

The morning began, as most good mornings do, with a hearty breakfast at Sabores De Montemuro. I fueled up with local pastries and strong coffee, a necessity before embarking on a day of hiking. It's funny, I've found that even the simplest meals taste extraordinary when you know you're about to earn them with a day's worth of physical exertion. It reminded me of my days back in Puerto Rico, preparing for a long day of surfing – that anticipatory energy is a universal language.

With my backpack packed and my camera ready, I set off to find the trail. The crisp mountain air was invigorating, a stark contrast to the stuffy Berlin air I've grown accustomed to. As I ascended, the landscape unfolded in layers of green and gold, the sun painting the slopes in a warm, inviting light. The GR47 is no joke; it's a serious trek. But with each step, the views became more rewarding. I paused frequently, not just to catch my breath, but to capture the beauty around me. Photography, after all, is more than just a hobby; it's a way of preserving these moments, of sharing the world as I see it.

The trail wound its way through forests of pine and oak, the scent of the earth mingling with the sweet fragrance of wildflowers. I passed ancient stone walls, remnants of a time when these mountains were the domain of shepherds and farmers. It struck me how much history is embedded in this landscape, how the echoes of the past resonate in every stone and tree. I tried to imagine what life must have been like for those who came before me, their lives dictated by the rhythm of the seasons, their fortunes tied to the land.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments or bustling cities, but in the quiet solitude of nature.

Midday found me at Fonte de Marcelim. It's more than just a water source; it's a viewpoint with privileged views of the valleys of the Bestança and Douro rivers. I sat for a long while, gazing out at the landscape, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. I ate my packed lunch – a simple sandwich of local cheese and bread – and savored the moment. It was one of those times when everything felt perfectly aligned, when the world seemed to make sense. I thought of my friends back in Berlin, hustling and bustling through their busy lives, and I felt a pang of gratitude for the opportunity to be here, in this moment, far away from the noise and distractions of the city.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Fonte de Marcelim, a hidden spring in Tendais, Portugal, perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

After lunch, I continued along the trail, my legs growing heavier with each passing kilometer. The afternoon sun beat down on my back, and I found myself longing for a cool drink. As luck would have it, I stumbled upon a small shop – Serra & Pereira, Lda. – in a nearby village. It was a welcome sight, a chance to rest my weary feet and replenish my energy. Serra & Pereira, Lda. seems to be more than just a shop; it's a community hub, a place where locals gather to exchange news and stories. I bought a bottle of water and a pastry, and I sat outside, listening to the chatter of the villagers. Although my Portuguese is still a work in progress, I could understand the warmth and camaraderie in their voices. It reminded me of the close-knit community I grew up in back in Salinas, where everyone knew everyone else, and where neighbors looked out for each other.


Explore the heart of Viseu at Serra & Pereira, Lda., where local craftsmanship meets the charm of Portuguese culture.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way back towards my guesthouse, the setting sun casting long shadows across the mountains. My body ached, but my heart was full. I had walked, I had seen, I had experienced the true essence of Serra do Montemuro. I thought about how different this was from my usual Berlin haunts. No street art, no salsa clubs, just pure, unadulterated nature.

For dinner, I decided to treat myself to a meal at Restaurante Solar do Montemuro. I had heard great things about their traditional Portuguese cuisine, and I was eager to sample some of the local specialties. The restaurant did not disappoint. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, the staff was friendly and attentive, and the food was simply divine. I ordered the *posta arouquesa* (Arouca steak), a regional dish that was cooked to perfection. The meat was tender and flavorful, and it was served with a side of roasted potatoes and vegetables. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of why I love to travel, why I love to explore new places and cultures. It's not just about seeing the sights; it's about connecting with the people, about experiencing the world in a way that is authentic and meaningful. It's about pushing myself outside of my comfort zone, about challenging my assumptions and beliefs. And most of all, it's about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Parque de Lazer de Pias and Baloiço do Bestança [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I'm looking forward to discovering more of what this region has to offer. But for now, I'm content to simply savor the memories of today, to bask in the glow of a day well-spent. I might even try to find Rochedo Bar [Itinerary of Tomorrow] for a nightcap.

Serra do Montemuro, you have captured my heart. Until tomorrow!