Solo Escape to Serra de São Mamede: A Journey of Nature and Tranquility

Whispers of the Past, Splashes of the Present

The Serra de São Mamede Natural Park continues to enchant me. Today was a blend of spiritual reflection and natural exploration, a perfect concoction for a solo traveler seeking solace and inspiration. The crisp October air, with a hint of moisture, made each step feel like a cleansing breath. I'm finding that these moments of solitude are exactly what my soul needed after the whirlwind of marketing meetings and family schedules back in Bielefeld. It's amazing how quickly the rhythm of nature can recalibrate your inner compass.

My day began, as most good days do, with coffee and pastries at Café Restaurante Realinho. It's a cozy spot, the kind where locals gather to exchange news and laughter. I savored a pastel de nata, its creamy custard and flaky crust providing the perfect energy boost for the day's adventures. I struck up a conversation with an elderly gentleman who, despite my limited Portuguese, managed to convey the importance of respecting the land and its traditions. It was a simple exchange, but it resonated deeply with my intentions for this trip.

Fueled by caffeine and a renewed sense of purpose, I set off towards Ermida de São Mamede. The drive itself was a treat, winding roads offering panoramic views of rolling hills dotted with cork trees and olive groves. As I approached the chapel, I was struck by its serene presence. Perched atop a hill, it seemed to guard the secrets of the Serra. The Ermida de São Mamede is a historic chapel close to Alentejo. Though small, it exuded a sense of profound history. I stepped inside, the cool stone walls offering respite from the sun. The silence was broken only by the gentle hum of the wind, creating an atmosphere of tranquility. I lit a candle, offering a silent prayer for my family back home, for Maximilian and Elena, hoping they are having a great time at the park near our house. I spent some time simply being present, letting the stillness wash over me. It's moments like these that make me realize how much I need these solo escapes.


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

The beauty of a place is not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

Leaving the Ermida de São Mamede, I felt a sense of lightness, as if I had shed some of the weight I had been carrying. My next destination was Cascata da Cabroeira, a waterfall tucked away in the heart of the park. The drive there was a bit more challenging, the roads narrower and more rugged, but the anticipation of seeing the cascade kept me going. I parked the car and followed a winding trail through a dense pine forest. The air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the sound of rushing water grew louder with each step. The waterfall is not very far from the road, about a thousand meters each way, and the path is accessible.

Finally, I reached Cascata da Cabroeira. While it may not have been the most majestic waterfall I've ever seen, its secluded location and the surrounding natural beauty made it special. The water cascaded down moss-covered rocks into a small pool below. I spent some time simply watching the water flow, mesmerized by its constant movement. I thought about the relentless pace of life back home, the endless to-do lists and the constant demands on my time. Here, in the Serra de São Mamede, time seemed to slow down, allowing me to reconnect with myself and with nature. Cascata da Cabroeira is a lesser-known waterfall near Portugal's Eastern Border with Spain in the Portalegre District.


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

For lunch, I stopped at Carlos Caeiro, a local restaurant known for its seafood. I savored a plate of grilled fish, simply seasoned and perfectly cooked. The restaurant was bustling with locals, their animated conversations filling the air. It was a reminder that while I cherish my solo adventures, I also value the connections I make with people along the way. The staff is energetic, works hard, stays positive and makes this place great.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Carlos Caeiro - where flavor meets affordability in an inviting atmosphere.

In the afternoon, I decided to indulge in a bit of local shopping. I visited Sabores Apurados, Lda., a shop specializing in regional products. I sampled various cheeses, cured meats, and, of course, olive oil. I ended up buying a few bottles of Azeite Virgem Extra, as gifts for Maximilian and my parents. It felt good to support local businesses and to bring a taste of Alentejo back home with me. The company Sabores Apurados, Lda. was born with the acquisition in September 2007 of the olive oil mill located on Monte da Malta in Ponte de Sor.


Experience the authentic flavors of Portugal at Sabores Apurados, Lda., a charming farm shop in Ponte de Sor offering artisanal local delights.

As evening approached, I made my way to Tombalobos for dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended, and I was eager to experience its cuisine. Tombalobos presents itself as a destination in itself. The restaurant is in the historic center of Portalegre, inside the walls of the Castle. The chef, José Júlio Vintém, transforms local products into unique dishes. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic ambiance. I ordered a traditional Alentejo dish, orelha de porco assada, roasted pork ear, a local delicacy that was surprisingly delicious. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the region's culinary heritage. The experience was extraordinary.


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

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a stroll through the town, soaking in the atmosphere. The streets were quiet, the only sounds the soft murmur of conversations and the occasional strumming of a guitar. I paused to admire the stars, which seemed brighter and more numerous than I had ever seen them before. In that moment, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for this journey, for the opportunity to escape the ordinary and to reconnect with the extraordinary.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Trilho da Barca d'Amieira - Passadiços de Nisa and the Caleiras da Escusa / Fornos de Cal da Escusa. I'm also hoping to enjoy a drink at the Natural Bar in the evening. But for now, I'm content to simply savor the memories of today, the whispers of the past and the splashes of the present.

It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, why I love to explore, and why I love to share my experiences with you. The Serra de São Mamede is more than just a beautiful place; it's a sanctuary for the soul, a place where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. And who knows, maybe I'll even pick up a bit of Portuguese along the way. Até amanhã!