Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

A Walk Through Time

Today was a day of exploration, where we traded the hum of Heidelberg for the rustling leaves and historical whispers of Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. With Lena, Sophie and I ready for a day of hiking, we set off to uncover the hidden gems around Nisa. It's funny how sometimes the best adventures are the ones you least expect, and today certainly proved that point.

Our morning started, as always, with the quest for coffee. We found ourselves at Snack Bar Restaurante Boavista, and it was exactly what we needed. It was a simple, unpretentious place, but the coffee was strong and the pastries were fresh. Sophie, of course, opted for a pastel de nata, her eyes widening with delight at the first bite. Fueled up, we were ready to hit the trails.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Snack Bar Restaurante Boavista in Castelo de Vide—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Our main goal for the day was the Trilho da Barca d'Amieira – Passadiços de Nisa. I had read a bit about it online, but nothing truly prepares you for the experience of walking along those suspended pathways. The views were simply breathtaking. The trail snaked through the landscape, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys. The path was well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it perfect for a family hike. Sophie, with her boundless energy, was in her element, running ahead and then circling back to share her discoveries with us.


Explore the scenic beauty of Trilho da Barca d'Amieira, a serene hiking trail in Amieira do Tejo, perfect for outdoor adventures and nature lovers.

As we walked, Lena and I took turns pointing out different species of birds and plants to Sophie. She was fascinated by everything, asking endless questions about the flora and fauna. I tried my best to answer, drawing on my limited knowledge of botany and zoology, but mostly relying on the information I had gleaned from the park's website. I must admit, I felt a bit out of my depth, but Sophie didn't seem to mind. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and it reminded me of the simple joy of discovering new things.

Sometimes, the most profound discoveries aren't about finding new lands, but seeing familiar places through new eyes.

The trail itself was a mix of boardwalks and natural paths, which added to the adventure. At one point, we crossed a small stream, and Sophie insisted on taking off her shoes and wading in the water. Lena and I exchanged amused glances, but we let her have her fun. After all, that's what family adventures are all about – embracing the unexpected and making memories along the way.

After completing the Trilho da Barca d'Amieira, we decided to check out the Ermida de São Mamede. It was a bit of a drive from the trail, but the promise of a historical site was too tempting to resist. The hermitage was perched on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The building itself was small and unassuming, but it had a certain charm that was hard to deny.


Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of the Ermida de São Mamede Chapel in Portalegre, a hidden gem in Portugal's Alentejo region.

We spent some time exploring the grounds, reading the informational plaques, and taking in the scenery. Sophie, surprisingly, was quite interested in the history of the hermitage. She peppered us with questions about the monks who had lived there, the rituals they had performed, and the challenges they had faced. I did my best to answer, drawing on my knowledge of European history, but I had to admit that I was a bit rusty. I promised myself that I would brush up on my knowledge before our next historical excursion.

By this point, we were all starting to feel a bit peckish, so we decided to head into town for lunch. We found a charming little spot called Restaurante Duarte, and it was exactly what we were looking for. The menu was simple and traditional, featuring local specialties like migas and açorda. I opted for the grilled sardines, Lena went for the pork with clams, and Sophie, predictably, chose the chicken nuggets. The food was delicious, the service was friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy. It was the perfect way to refuel after a long day of hiking and exploring.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Duarte in São Miguel do Rio Torto - a budget-friendly gem for food lovers.

After lunch, we decided to do a bit of shopping in the Castle of Marvão. It was more of a detour than anything else, but I had heard good things about the local crafts and souvenirs. The castle itself was impressive, with its imposing walls and stunning views. We spent some time wandering through the narrow streets, browsing the shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. I ended up buying a few postcards and a small ceramic tile for my collection. Lena found a beautiful handmade scarf, and Sophie, of course, got a new stuffed animal.


Discover the enchanting Castle of Marvão, a historic fortress boasting breathtaking views and rich Portuguese heritage, perfect for every traveler's adventure.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Regata for dinner. It was a bit more upscale than our lunch spot, but we were all in the mood for something special. The restaurant was located on the waterfront, offering stunning views of the sunset. The menu featured a variety of seafood dishes, and I was eager to try some of the local specialties. I opted for the seafood cataplana, Lena went for the grilled octopus, and Sophie, still not quite ready for adventurous eating, chose the pasta with tomato sauce. The food was exquisite, the service was impeccable, and the ambiance was perfect. It was the ideal way to end a memorable day.


Discover Regata in Alpalhão: A culinary haven offering authentic Portuguese dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day, it strikes me that the best travel experiences often come from simply embracing the present moment. We hadn't planned every detail, and we allowed ourselves to be spontaneous and open to new experiences. Whether it was wading in a stream, exploring a historical hermitage, or simply enjoying a delicious meal together, every moment was a gift.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Grutas de Santo António and the Parque megalítico dos Coureleiros. I'm particularly excited about the caves, as I've always been fascinated by geology and speleology. Sophie, on the other hand, is more interested in the megalithic park, as she's been studying ancient civilizations in school. It should be another day of adventure and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge. Goodnight from Serra de São Mamede Natural Park!