Serra da Freita is a mountainous region located in the northern part of Portugal, next to Arouca. It offers options for those seeking contact with nature, outdoor activities and a peaceful environment.
When we visited Arouca we visited the hills nearby. It,s calls Serra de Freita. The zone is classified and is part of the Arouca Geopark extending from Arouca, to São Pedro do Sul and Vale de Cambra cities. Its maximum altitude is 1100 meters and it hides several secrets and different landscapes.
We designed an itinerary for one day, passing by the points that inspired us the most curiosity. We didn’t have the opportunity to go through some marked trails because we travelled with our daughter. In any case, and having investigated the maps of the Geopark, it seems there was not much left. Here are our suggestions for a day in Serra da Freita.
Serra da Freita Hills
Chapel of Senhora da Laje
This was our first stop when we reached the highest part of the mountain. The chapel seems to be a place of devotion and pilgrimage, but it also attracts other visitors who seek tranquillity and contemplation in the midst of nature. There are also marked pedestrian trails in the area and the panoramic view is breathtaking.
The construction of the chapel dates back to the 18th century, its architectural style is typical of the region, with simple and rustic elements. As it was closed, we did not have access to its interior.
Frecha da Mizarela waterfall
Next, we were treated to one of the most popular attractions in Serra da Freita hills. Frecha da Mizarela is a waterfall about 60 meters high at the top of this magnificent mountain range.
Mizarela waterfall from the viewpoint
Currently, next to the village of Albergaria da Serra, there is a marked viewpoint, but from the moment we contemplated its beauty, we wanted to stop.
The waterfall is formed by the river Caima, which meanders through the mountains, passes beside the village and crashes into this rocky precipice, creating a spectacular waterfall.
We stayed at the viewpoint, but next to it, there is a small winding road that takes us closer to the waterfall. It was closed to traffic.
Parideiras Stones
Very close by, in the village of Castanheira, is the fascinating geological phenomenon that consists of the formation of oval-shaped stones that move out of a granite block. We were quite interested to see these stones live.
The entire area of the birthing stones is marked and there is also a small interpretation nucleus. Despite the birthstones being considered a rare geological phenomenon and found in a few places in the world, this is a point in the itinerary, which for non-geology lovers will not be of much interest.
Once again, throughout the village, there are trails and paths that allow you to discover the surroundings.
River Beach of Albergaria da Serra
Another very interesting aspect of these mountain villages is the existence of parks and places to have a picnic and at the same time enjoy the rivers and streams. Before the Caima River crashes into the Mizarela waterfall, it passes through the park and river beach. Here, a small dam creates a water mirror.
The river beach has all the basic infrastructure to spend a great day or just to have a picnic, which we did.
Unsurprisingly, the water is quite cold and we weren’t tempted to take a shower.
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Other places to visit in Serra da Freita Hills
When we visited Serra de Freita, we felt that our visit could have been more complete. These are the complexities of travelling with children. In this way, we leave here a list of identified places that you can visit, if you have time. On the Arouca Geopark website, you can find even more locations.
- Walking on a trail: Serra da Freita offers several trails and marked trails for walking and trekking, which, together with the natural landscape, flora and fauna, will certainly be an adventure not to be missed. In addition to the trails, you can also go climbing.
- Traditional villages: The villages of Serra da Freita are picturesque and charismatic. There is one that caught our special attention because it is so isolated that it would be necessary to get there on foot. It is the village of Drave, a magical village.
- Visit the various Geosites: Serra da Freita is rich in geosites, places that are of great geological importance. Some examples to visit are Mamoa da Portela da Anta or Pedras Boroas do Junqueiro.
Where to stay when visiting the Serra da Freita
In the villages of these hills, there are several local accommodations. They are locals in restored houses that allow you to get to know the charismatic villages. If you stay outside Serra da Freita, you can choose to stay in Arouca as the distance is quite short.
See in our other articles what there is still to discover in the region of Arouca
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Did you like Serra da Freita! Are you willing to visit it? You will certainly find reasons in Arouca and in the nearby towns of Serra da Freita for an excellent holiday. We hope this little one-day guide is useful to you. If you are curious, you can read other articles about the north of Portugal.
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