What can I say, my heart loves scenic countryside views and terracotta roof tiled homes…
As travel begins to pick up, rather quickly and ferociously from the looks of it {I mean I can’t blame anyone for wanting to just hit the road and adventure — as long as it’s being done safely}, there is so much excitement in the sheer act of planning our next travels. And how quickly this year has been going by, that we’re nearing the end of May and the unofficial start to Summer. I can’t wait to return to Portugal, be in the countryside, amongst nature, loved ones and take a step back in order to take a few more steps forward to see and experience new things. I was very lucky that this past Autumn I spent some time there, because I knew how remote I’d be in our tiny aldeia and any plans to explore I had, were all to places outside in nature where people were far and few between. I took this time to relax and explore the hidden gems within the central part of Portugal, my family’s native region of Serra da Estrela — and there are plenty!!
One of the many reasons I love this country, and the central area, particularly for nature lovers, is how easily one can stumble upon charming, and very old, villages. Some with lovely parks and forests that locals pride on keeping to themselves, others known for artisan creations or delectable treats. Or how you most certainly are bound to come across castles and monuments seeped in history as old as the cobblestone alleyways. Take the path less traveled they say, and also is one of my life motto’s. And it so happens to be my favorite way to travel!
A sign peaked our interest on a drive, and we discovered Poço da Broca, but if you’re reading paying attention while driving on the roads, you’ll be met with many signs hinting for you to take the detour and discover all the nearby treasures; big, small and everything in between. One of my cousins who lives in Portugal, is one of the best people I know to find so many places to see and experience, even if just on a drive or a few hours in the afternoon. And that’s how we found ourselves in Penedono. As a motorcycle rider he eats and breathes the carefree, wind in your hair, life is meant to be explored mindset…you can see why he’s one who easily vibes with everyone.
One Sunday, after a family lunch, he suggested a scenic car ride and off we went, only stopping until we reached this perfectly standing, beautifully aged Castle of Penedono. With its large wooden catapults marking their presence at the entrance, I picked up my skirt and off we went on a little adventure.
The closer we got to the Castle the more I saw how nature had beautifully aged the exterior. Perhaps because it was the middle of Autumn but the mosses were golden rich yellows and rust hues, the greens still vibrant, and the texture. That TEXTURED STONE!!! I was visually and aesthetically inspired that it still lives in my mind as a source for home decor projects. {but that’s a post for another time….}
The Castelo de Penedono is the main attraction of the village of Penedono, located in the area of Viseu, but it’s equally as charming and exudes that medieval flare. Once a fortress given as part of a larger donation to the Monastery of Guimarães in 960. Yes, you read that correctly, the 960’s!!! Ohhh the stories and things this place has seen over 1060 years!! My history loving heart just can’t take it. It always amazes me when I’m in the proximity of something so old, it really leaves you in awe to think of everything people, villages, countries have gone though and yet here it remains, still standing tall.
As in the case of this Castelo, in the late 980’s it was conquered twice, then taken over by the Moors between 1055-1057. So much history in this shell of stones, in a town I had never heard of. Of course what remains is the immensely strong facade, ohhh you history-steeped walls, what tales have you to share with me.
This is exactly why there’s something enchanting about Europe, sure the history was dark and not the greatest many times, but there is always something wondrous about envisioning these places from the beginning of civilizations — still standing, still being visited and intertwined into modern and ever-evolving cities.
Before making your way inside around the walls of the castle, first take a moment to take in the landscapes and the Serra de Serigo in the distant. Mountainscapes in the distant, terracotta roofs nearby; what a typical but beautiful Portuguese view. Once inside the Castle your met with your typical middle ages open square, with stairs leading up to the walls meant for defense and action, and a hanging iron cage where many punishments were sure to have taken place.
If heights are no problem for you, then take the walk around the tiny edge of stone, stopping every so often to catch the picturesque views circling the castle with remnants of its Moorish design.
After taking in the well preserved castle, feel free to enjoy the quaint town square where cafes and a restaurant are there for you to enjoy a lovely meal or fuel up with an espresso. Since we had just left lunch and were merely in passing, we didn’t stop in, but it looked very much like a charming untouched medieval restaurant one, I, would enjoy.
Penedono is certainly a well kept secret that I’m sharing with you all, because it’s too charming and to effortless of an adventure not to have if you find yourself in the area.
We then ventured on another short drive, up through windy tree-lined roads towards the Senhora das Necessidades in Sernancelhe, to gaze at the panoramic views of trees finally showing their Autumnal colors alongside the tranquil Távora river currents.
If you want a simple quiet place amongst nature with lovely views, this is one of those spots. Upon arriving we were greeted to a charming little chapel/shrine of sorts for Senhora do Encontro {Lady of the Encounter}. But, I was mostly mesmerized by Nature’s beauty. It was the end of October and yet this hidden gem of Mother Nature was brimming in endless greens from muted mosses and dark forest and olive tones, but it was the TEXTURES!! Overgrown mosses, leaves and branches that had intertwined and took over the tree trunks, wrapping their way around and up, so intriguing and not something I’ve seen before.
We also happened to stumble upon a few Chestnut trees, at their peak season, the ground covered in their prickly shells which we happily began gathering to bring back home to enjoy roasted alongside a glass of Jeropiga. You couldn’t have planned for such a lovely surprise even if you tried. Spontaneity and charming travel surprises at their best!
Making our way to the lookout point where the chapel of Senhora das Necessidades stood, I of course first took the calm walk around and inside this lovely little chapel so typical of Portuguese design. And naturally drawn by the beauty of its history, but mostly its grand door. We all know how much a beautiful door is admired in these parts 😉
Walking down the grand stone staircase you’re met with those tranquil views of trees marking their turn in the season, the hills in the distance covered with the softness of the cloudy day that was beginning to make its end.
Nothing but the sound of the wind rustling in the trees and dried leaves, the faint birdsong….the peace and calm of Nature singing bright. 
Sometimes you simply need to see new sights, go for a drive and have a small adventure that can easily fit within your day. And Penedono and Sernancelhe in Portugal, are lovely gems to do just that! I’m already looking forward to even more spontaneous summer nature adventures like these!
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