Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

A Day of Discovery

Today was all about embracing the unexpected turns in our journey through Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. It's funny how sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don't meticulously plan, but rather stumble upon. From chasing a hidden waterfall to wandering through ancient Jewish quarters, today was a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors.

Our day began, as most good days do, with a hearty breakfast. We found ourselves at A Tasquinha in Castelo de Vide, a cozy spot that promised a taste of local flavors. Lena, Sophie, and I settled in, eager to fuel up for our adventures. I went for a classic Portuguese pastry, while Lena opted for a strong coffee to kickstart her morning. Sophie, of course, chose a pastel de nata, her eyes wide with anticipation. It’s these simple moments, sharing a meal and planning our day, that really make our family trips special.

With our bellies full, we set off to find the Cascata da Cabroeira. The drive itself was stunning, winding through the rolling hills of the park. The landscape was dotted with cork trees and grazing sheep, a quintessential Alentejo scene. Finding the waterfall, however, proved to be a bit of a challenge. The signs were… well, let’s just say they were more like suggestions than actual directions. After a few wrong turns and a bit of off-roading that made me question our rental car choice, we finally arrived at what seemed like the trailhead.

The hike to Cascata da Cabroeira was an adventure in itself. The path was a mix of dirt trails and rocky descents, definitely requiring our trusty hiking boots. Sophie, ever the energetic explorer, skipped ahead, her laughter echoing through the trees. Lena and I followed at a more leisurely pace, taking in the sights and sounds of the forest. The air was fresh and crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. After about 30 minutes, we started to hear the unmistakable sound of rushing water.

And then, there it was – Cascata da Cabroeira. The waterfall wasn't massive, but it was beautiful, cascading down a rocky cliff into a small pool below. The water was crystal clear and inviting, and I couldn't resist dipping my toes in. Sophie, never one to shy away from a bit of cold water, was already splashing around, much to Lena's amusement. We spent a good hour there, just enjoying the tranquility of the place. It felt like we had discovered our own little secret paradise.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascata da Cabroeira, a stunning waterfall in São Julião, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't mean to take.

Leaving the waterfall, we drove to Castelo de Vide, a charming town known for its well-preserved Judiaria, or Jewish Quarter. As we walked through the narrow, winding streets, I couldn't help but feel a sense of stepping back in time. The architecture was incredible, with whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets that seemed to whisper stories of centuries past. Lena, ever the history enthusiast, was in her element, pointing out architectural details and imagining what life must have been like for the Jewish community here so many years ago. Sophie, though less interested in the history, was fascinated by the narrow alleyways and hidden corners, turning our walk into a game of hide-and-seek.

The Judiaria de Castelo de Vide is one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Portugal, a testament to the town's rich and diverse history. The Jewish community here thrived, leaving behind a legacy that is still visible today. Wandering through the narrow streets, I imagined the lives of the families who once called this place home. The echoes of their stories seemed to resonate in the ancient stones, reminding us of the enduring power of community and faith.

For lunch, we decided to try Cantinho do Pescador, a restaurant that came highly recommended. The name suggested fresh seafood, and we were not disappointed. We started with some local cheese and olives, followed by a grilled fish platter that was simply divine. The fish was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were enhanced by a squeeze of fresh lemon. Even Sophie, who can be a bit picky, devoured her portion of grilled sardines. As we ate, we talked about our adventures so far and planned what we would do tomorrow. Tomorrow, we are planning to hike the Trilho da Barca d'Amieira - Passadiços de Nisa and visit the Ermida de São Mamede.

After lunch, we strolled through the town square, soaking in the atmosphere. Castelo de Vide is a town that invites you to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. We stopped at a local shop to buy some souvenirs, including a hand-painted tile for my mom and a small toy for Sophie. As we walked, we noticed Natural Bar and decided to have a drink. I went for a local beer, while Lena had a glass of wine. Sophie, of course, opted for a refreshing juice. We sat outside, enjoying the warm afternoon sun and watching the world go by.


Discover the charm of Natural Bar in Marvão, where crafted cocktails and local cuisine meet stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Sabores Do Norte Alentejo - Empreendimentos Turísticos, Lda. for dinner. This restaurant promised an authentic Alentejo dining experience, and it certainly delivered. We started with some traditional appetizers, including grilled chorizo and local bread with olive oil. For our main courses, Lena chose a hearty stew, while I opted for grilled pork with migas, a local specialty made from bread, garlic, and olive oil. The flavors were rich and satisfying, a perfect end to a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Northern Portuguese cuisine at Sabores Do Norte Alentejo – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic atmosphere. The staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. As we ate, we reflected on our day, sharing our favorite moments and laughing at our misadventures. It’s these shared experiences that make our family trips so special, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.

After dinner, we took a leisurely walk back to our accommodation, enjoying the cool evening air. The stars were out, and the sky was clear, creating a magical atmosphere. Sophie, tired from our day of adventures, fell asleep in my arms, her head resting on my shoulder. As I carried her, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for these moments, for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Back at our cozy guesthouse, I sat down to write, capturing the memories of the day while they were still fresh in my mind. Lena read a book beside me, the soft glow of the lamp casting a warm light on her face. Sophie slept soundly in her bed, dreaming of waterfalls and ancient streets. As I finished writing, I felt a sense of contentment, knowing that tomorrow would bring new adventures and new discoveries. Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, you have captured our hearts. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. The Trilho da Barca d'Amieira and the Ermida de São Mamede, here we come!