The Miradouro do Chão das Pias, is situated in Serro Ventoso, Porto de Mós, a short but moderate walk or easy drive from where we are staying presently. We had been up to the viewpoint a few times while they were constructing it, but was finally inaugurated on November 15, at 4:00 pm, by the Mayor of Porto de Mós, Jorge Vala, the President of the Parish Council of Serro Ventoso, Carlos Cordeiro and the Regional Director of ICNF, Rui Pombo. (Some of which we have met at some stage!).
The structure now standing has really transformed a generic parking space next to EM506 into a true place of contemplation. The viewpoint, by architect Eusébio Calvário, extends beyond the edge of the mountain range and has a fantastic view over the village of Porto de Mós and the Lena valley, especially the Castle of Porto de Mós. The surrounding area has also been enhanced with seating and picnic tables in smooth stone, these along with planted trees and plants will make the place a lovely place to stop on a hot summer day in the future.
There is also a work of urban art, by the hands of Rui Basílio, “Muros de Pedra Seca”. An ode to the stone walls that wind through the mountains, constituting an ancient art whose “know-how” is a candidate for Intangible Heritage of Humanity, in a partnership between the Municipality of Porto de Mós, ADSAICA and Terras de Sicó. The feature wall highlights characteristic elements of this area and is built with natural elements that represent the economic activities developed in the mountains, such as grazing, or the production of meat, milk or cheese.
This work is one of several that integrate a broader strategy of tourism in our surrounding area, such as Miradouro da Fórnea or Praia Jurássica, also located in the hilly parts of the municipality.
In other news, we are enjoying the company of some friendly goats. They appear most days for a bit of a munch on the lush grass and trees growing next door. They do make us smile though!
Our Portuguese Life 