For travellers seeking the ultimate quiet escape in Europe, a remote Portuguese mountain village with a population of just one person offers an experience like no other. Former TV reporter Panni Anikó Cser, who now lives in Portugal, recently documented her stay in the tranquil settlement of Talasnal, nestled in the Lousã mountains of central Portugal.
The Sole Resident and His Bar
Panni shared her journey on TikTok, beginning her story at the heart of the village: the home and business of its only permanent inhabitant, a man named Jorge. "I'm the only resident - the only one with a mailbox," Jorge explained from behind the counter of his establishment, Bar o Curral.
Despite its secluded location, the bar is surprisingly well-equipped, featuring several tables and stools, traditional Portuguese decor, and even an old CRT television in the corner. Jorge told Panni that he often cooks chanfana, a typical regional stew, for his visitors.
A Village Reborn from Abandonment
Jorge recounted the village's history, explaining that over 200 people once lived in Talasnal, with many families calling it home. However, during the 1950s and 1960s, a wave of depopulation led to the village being completely abandoned.
His own connection to Talasnal began through his son. "My son was a Scout and he came here with his Scout group to camp in the village - he's the one who told me about this village," Jorge said. "I visited and fell in love with the village."
A Community Effort Brings New Life
Panni advised that visitors can also stay in Talasnal for a few days. The village's fortunes changed in the early 2000s when a community-led renovation project breathed new life into the crumbling stone houses. This initiative saw the creation of guesthouses and small restaurants, transforming it into a destination once more.
"Many hikers stay there - which is good, since also Jorge makes his living from it!" Panni noted. Jorge's bar is listed on TripAdvisor, where it holds a rating of 3.9 out of 5 from 10 reviews.
One previous visitor left a glowing review, praising the "best view of our lives" and the "100 per cent Portuguese experience that warmed the heart and filled the soul."
The video sparked a wave of interest online, with one TikTok user quipping they would "watch a 24 hour documentary about Jorge and his village!". Another declared it a life goal to visit, while others suggested it would be a perfect artist's retreat.
The wider Lousã region, known for its Schist Villages and rich natural heritage, is consolidating itself as a reference for Nature, Adventure, and Cultural Tourism. The area boasts walking routes, river beaches, and mountain bike trails, making Talasnal a unique gem within a growing tourist destination.
