Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

First Impressions: Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

After months of planning, Lena, Sophie, and I finally arrived at Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. Leaving Heidelberg behind, with its familiar cobblestone streets and the comforting routine of the brewery, was bittersweet. But the promise of exploring Portugal's hidden gem, a landscape far removed from our everyday life, filled us with excitement. This trip is particularly special as it's our first real adventure since I started feeling the itch to document our travels more seriously. Armed with my camera and a thirst for the unknown, I was ready to capture every moment of our journey through this stunning natural park.

Our journey started with a flight from Frankfurt to Lisbon. Sophie, bless her heart, was an absolute trooper. She kept herself entertained with her travel-sized coloring book and a few episodes of her favorite cartoon on Lena's tablet. I must admit, I was a bit worried about how she would handle the flight, but she proved me wrong. The relief I felt when we finally touched down in Lisbon was immense. After picking up our rental car, a sturdy little thing that I hoped would handle the Alentejo roads, we set off towards Serra de São Mamede. The drive itself was a treat, the landscape slowly transforming from the bustling city outskirts to rolling hills dotted with cork trees.

Our first official stop was at Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede itself. The sheer scale of the park is impressive. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city. I pulled out my camera, eager to capture the vastness of the landscape. The rolling hills, the distant mountains, it was all incredibly picturesque. We spent a good chunk of the afternoon simply driving through the park, stopping at various viewpoints to take in the scenery. Sophie was particularly fascinated by the cork trees, their stripped trunks revealing the vibrant orange bark underneath. I tried my best to explain the process of harvesting cork, but I think the concept was a bit lost on her. Still, she seemed to enjoy running her hands over the rough texture of the bark.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede, a national park rich in wildlife, hiking trails, and cultural heritage.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures begin not with a detailed plan, but with an open heart and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.

For breakfast, we stopped at Café Restaurante Tapada do Poêjo. It was a charming little place, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries filling the air. Lena ordered us some Galão (Portuguese latte) and a selection of local pastries. Sophie devoured a *Pastel de Nata* in record time, leaving a dusting of powdered sugar on her nose. The tomato soup seems to be a popular choice, but maybe for lunch next time. The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect start to our day, fueling us up for our adventures ahead.


Experience the authentic flavors of Portugal at Café Restaurante Tapada do Poêjo, a charming culinary haven in Marvão.

After breakfast, we continued our exploration of the park, eventually making our way to Alto da Serra de São Mamede, the highest point in the range. The drive up was a bit nerve-wracking, the roads winding and narrow, but the views from the top were well worth the effort. From the summit, we could see for miles in every direction. The landscape stretched out before us, a tapestry of green hills, rocky outcrops, and distant villages. I spent a good hour taking photos, trying to capture the immensity of the scene. Sophie, meanwhile, was busy collecting rocks and chasing butterflies.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity at Alto da Serra de São Mamede, Portugal's highest peak south of the River Tagus.

Lunch was at Restaurante Varanda do Alentejo in Marvão, and what a find it was! The view from the balcony was simply breathtaking. We sat overlooking the rolling hills, the sun warming our faces as we savored the local cuisine. Lena and I shared a *Migas* dish, a traditional Alentejo specialty made with bread, pork, and vegetables. Sophie, never one to be adventurous with food, opted for a simple grilled chicken. The service was excellent, the staff attentive and friendly. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge after a morning of exploring. I made sure to try some Alentejo wine, as this region is known for it. I must say, it paired perfectly with the Migas.


Experience authentic Alentejan cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurante Varanda do Alentejo in Marvão.

After lunch, we took a stroll through the charming town of Marvão. Perched atop a granite peak, the village is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and ancient walls. We explored the Marvão Castle, a medieval fortress that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Sophie was fascinated by the cannons and the ramparts, imagining herself as a knight defending the castle from invaders. The views from the top were simply incredible, stretching for miles in every direction. I could see why this location was strategically important throughout history.

Before dinner, we stopped by Marvão Adventure, a local shop that sells a variety of outdoor gear and souvenirs. I was hoping to find a portable phone charger, as I had forgotten mine back in Heidelberg. Unfortunately, they didn't have one in stock. Lena bought Sophie a small stuffed sheep as a memento of our trip. It seems that I keep forgetting essential items for our travels, as I also forgot insect repellent.


Experience the thrill of adventure sports in the stunning landscapes of Marvão, Portugal, with expert guidance and unforgettable tours.

For dinner, we chose Tombalobos in Portalegre. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, the decor traditional and charming. We started with a selection of local appetizers, including olives, cheese, and cured meats. For the main course, I opted for the roasted lamb, while Lena chose the grilled fish. Sophie, predictably, ordered pasta. The food was delicious, the flavors rich and authentic. The wine list was extensive, featuring a wide selection of Alentejo wines. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable. It was the perfect end to our first day in Serra de São Mamede.


Discover Tombalobos: A Culinary Haven in Portalegre Offering Authentic Alentejo Cuisine and Exceptional Service.

As we drove back to our accommodation, the stars began to appear in the night sky. The air was cool and crisp, the silence broken only by the hum of the engine. I glanced at Lena and Sophie, both fast asleep in their seats. A feeling of contentment washed over me. Our first day in Serra de São Mamede had been a resounding success. We had explored the park, tasted the local cuisine, and immersed ourselves in the culture. And tomorrow, we are planning to visit Cascata da Cabroeira and Judiaria de Castelo de Vide. I couldn't wait to see what adventures tomorrow would bring.

Back at our cozy guesthouse, I couldn't help but reflect on the day. The landscapes, the food, the people – everything had exceeded my expectations. This trip was already shaping up to be one of the most memorable experiences we've had as a family. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, excited for what tomorrow would bring. I'm already anticipating a breakfast at A Tasquinha, if the reviews are anything to go by!

Tomorrow promises more exploration, with plans to visit Cascata da Cabroeira and Judiaria de Castelo de Vide. I can't wait to share those experiences with you all as well. For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure in this beautiful corner of Portugal.

Good night from Serra de São Mamede!