GONÇALVES: one of the most charming cities in the south of Minas Gerais.

To enjoy a wintertime escape from the crowded city of São Paulo, breath fresh air and see a starry sky, it is worth driving around 240 km to Gonçalves, one of the most charming cities in the South of the state of Minas Gerais. Taste the local food and venture into the wild: this tiny and rustic town is the perfect getaway.

In one weekend, you will be able to explore the region – which has beautiful waterfalls, great restaurants, trails and little handicraft stores. Although it has become more popular over the last few years, especially because it is close to famous destinations like Campos do Jordão and Monte Verde, Golçalves still preserves its local culture and natural beauty. How about taking a trip up there?

Saturday

Leave São Paulo around 5am, to avoid traffic. On the way, stop at Leite na Pista (kilometer 10 of Rodovia Floriano Rodrigues Pinheiro) to have a delicious breakfast. We recommend the grilled cheese with whole bread or potato bread, coffee and milk!

When you arrive, take the road that goes to São Sebastião das Três Orelhas and make sure to stop at the local organic fair. The fair gathers small farmers in the region and takes place every Saturday from 9am to 1pm. Here you will find fresh vegetables, jams and cookies – and don't miss the strawberries!

For lunch, stop at the restaurant Deméter na Roça. Carefully prepared by Dona Neusa, you will taste some of the best local foods from this region. Go for her famous deep fried rice cakes, passionfruit and cassava flower and do not forget to try some of the typical desserts.

To continue enjoying the day, stop by the Simão waterfall. It is a wonderful place to relax and listen to the sounds of birds and crickets. After a long day, it is time to settle in your hotel. There are a variety of places where you can stay, from houses to chalets, in and outside of the city. Our recommendation? Go for a place outside the town, where you will enjoy a quiet night for a restful sleep. Just before going to bed, look up and admire a start filled sky.

Sunday

Wake up early and take the 2 hour hike up the Pedra do Forno mountain for a breath-taking view of the region. It’s an intermediate hike, so don’t forget to take snacks, water and sunscreen. When you come down, there is a traditional restaurant next to the beginning of the trail where you can have lunch. They also have ponds where kids can fish trout.

To finish the day, you can enjoy your last hours horseback riding. Most of the hotels have horses and can offer rides where a local will ride you. To finish your visit to this lovely town, make a final stop at Bar do Marcelo. This is where you will find some of the best cachaças from Minas Gerais. Nearby is “Sra das Especiarias”, a store that sells delicious jellies. On you way back to São Paulo, you might see people selling pinions on the road. Go for them! They are delicious!

Have you ever been to Gonçalves? What do you recommend? Share with us!

Information

Roads to get there: rodovias Dutra, Carvalho Pinto and Fernão Dias

Hotel suggestions: Vida Verde, Montanhês and Passaredo

Recommendation: bring a jacket or sweater because this region gets cold at night!