On hot summer days, many are looking for quiet places where they can cool in direct contact with nature. Far from the confusion of the beaches, the interior of Portugal keeps less known nooks that deserve to be discovered. One of these places is the Natural Pool of Serra da Freita, accessible through a simple rail and surrounded by landscapes of great beauty.
According to the ekonomist, the natural pool is located next to Ribeira de Palhais, in the uninhabited village of Drave, in the middle of Arouca Geopark, in the district of Aveiro. This place integrates the Serra da Freita and is accessible only on foot, through a rail that begins in the village of Regoufe.
An accessible rail in the heart of Serra da Freita
The route to the natural pool, as the same source refers, has a total of 8 kilometers (round trip) and is considered easy difficulty, being suitable for those who have little experience in walking.
It is estimated that the rail is done in about three hours, allowing a calm walk, with time to enjoy the natural surroundings and take breaks whenever necessary.
The landscape is marked by mountains, streams and varied vegetation, in an environment that, according to the ekonomist, transmits peace and isolation, far from the accelerated pace of cities.
Regoufe and the marks of history
The starting point is the village of Regoufe, where you can observe the rural architecture in stone and visit the old mines of the puddle of the dog. These mines were explored during World War II, at a time when the Volframio was much sought after.
Minas Gerais structures, as the same source refers, are still visible and part of the industrial memory of the region. It is worth stopping a little to know them before you go. The rail is well signposted, which facilitates orientation from the first meters to the end of the walk.
Climbing between vegetation and open views
Shortly after crossing the bridge over the Regoufe stream, a moderate climb begins, flanked by oaks, SilvaDos, Eucalyptus and Pinheiros. The path is narrow, but easy to progress.
At one point, according to the same source, when looking back, there is a wide view of the village and Serra da Freita. The ekonomist recommends this moment to stop, take a deep breath and enjoy the landscape. Despite the climb, the gap is not accentuated, which makes this route accessible to various types of walkers.
We recommend:
The descent to Drave, the “magic village“
Overcoming the highest point, the descent begins towards Drave. According to the same source, rail becomes smoother, accompanying the schist hills that define this area of the mountains.
Drave appears in the background, isolated between mountains, with their ruins, but with signs of recovery. It is known as the “magic village” and has been rehabilitated by scouts and volunteers.
Although uninhabited, Drave continues to attract visitors looking for the silence and gross beauty of nature.
The Secret of Ribeira de Palhais
From Drave, the path continues to Ribeira de Palhais, where, as the ekonomist refers, is the natural pool of Serra da Freita. It is a small hidden corner, with clear and cold water, perfect to refresh after the walk.
Even next door, according to the same source, a waterfall forms between the rocks, completing the scenario. The sound of the water and the freshness of the place creates, according to, a sense of tranquility difficult to find in other places.
Return path and useful advice
The return rail follows the same route, with an initial climb from Ribeira de Palhais to Drave, requiring some effort. From then on, according to the same source, the walk becomes simpler and more affordable, allowing to return to Regoufe with tranquility.
It is recommended, according to the ekonomist, to bring water, some food, hat and comfortable footwear, because along the way there are no support infrastructures. Prior preparation is essential to ensure a safe and pleasant walk.
This tour is a way of doing light exercise and knowing one of the most authentic regions of the Portuguese interior. The combination of nature, history and isolation makes experience especially enriching.
Also read:
