Giulia's Solo Journey to the Heart of Brazilian Nature

A Day of Serenity and Surprises

Today was a gentle exploration of Chapada dos Guimarães, a day where the beauty of nature unfolded at a leisurely pace. It was a reminder that sometimes, the most profound experiences come from simply being present and allowing the environment to speak to you.

My morning began with a delightful breakfast at Pousada e Restaurante São Gabriel. The air was crisp, carrying the promise of a beautiful day as I savored the flavors of local cuisine. I enjoyed some fresh fruits, breads, and strong Brazilian coffee, fueling up for the day's adventures. The Pousada, nestled in the heart of the national park, was a perfect starting point, offering comfortable rooms and delicious food.


Experience tranquility and local cuisine at Pousada e Restaurante São Gabriel in stunning Chapada dos Guimarães.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to Cachoeira da Prainha. The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape transforming into a canvas of vibrant greens and earthy reds. The closer I got to the waterfall, the more I could hear the soothing sound of cascading water. It was a sound that immediately calmed my senses, washing away any lingering stress.


Discover Cachoeira da Prainha in Chapada dos Guimarães: a peaceful waterfall, perfect for a refreshing swim and easy hiking in a stunning natural setting.

The Cachoeira da Prainha was a true gem. Unlike some of the more dramatic waterfalls in Chapada, Prainha offered a sense of tranquility. The water was shallow and inviting, perfect for a refreshing dip. I waded in, feeling the cool water against my skin, and let the gentle current massage my muscles. It was pure bliss. I spent a good hour simply soaking in the serenity, listening to the water and feeling the sun on my face.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are not about conquering mountains, but about finding peace in the gentle embrace of nature.

After my rejuvenating swim, I decided to explore the Rastro da Minhoca. This unique trail promised a different perspective of the park, and I was eager to see what it had to offer. The trail was unlike anything I had ever experienced. It meandered through the cerrado, with twists and turns that kept me guessing what was around the corner. The landscape was dotted with unique rock formations, sculpted by wind and rain over centuries. I felt like I was walking through an ancient, forgotten world.


Discover the winding paths and unique rock formations of Rastro da Minhoca in Chapada dos Guimarães, a geological wonder for nature lovers.

As I walked, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey so far. Ten days ago, I arrived in Chapada with a list of must-see attractions and a desire to capture the perfect photograph. But somewhere along the way, my focus shifted. I began to appreciate the smaller moments, the unexpected encounters, and the quiet beauty that surrounded me. I was reminded of a quote by the great Italian writer, Italo Calvino: “You take delight not in a city's seven or seventy wonders, but in the answer it gives to a question of yours.” And Chapada was certainly answering many questions I had about life, nature, and myself.

By late afternoon, I was ready for a change of pace. I decided to visit Casa Do Mel chapada. This local shop was a haven for honey lovers, offering a variety of flavors and products made from locally sourced honey. As someone who appreciates the simple pleasures in life, I was immediately drawn to the warm, inviting atmosphere of the shop. I sampled different types of honey, each with its unique taste and aroma. I learned about the different flowers that the bees foraged on and how it affected the honey's flavor. It was a fascinating and educational experience. I ended up buying a few jars of my favorite honey, knowing that they would be a sweet reminder of my time in Chapada.


Explore Casa Do Mel Chapada, a haven for natural goods and honey lovers in the breathtaking Chapada dos Guimarães region.

For lunch, I chose Estilo Bacalhau&Vinho, a Portuguese restaurant known for its codfish dishes. It was a delightful culinary experience, savoring the flavors of Portugal in the heart of Brazil. The bacalhau à Brás was particularly memorable, a perfect blend of codfish, eggs, and olives. The restaurant's ambiance was warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal.


Discover Estilo Bacalhau&Vinho in Chapada dos Guimarães - where exquisite Portuguese cuisine meets stunning natural beauty.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, I made my way to Restaurante Penhasco for dinner. Perched on the edge of a cliff, this restaurant offered breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The food was delicious, but the real star of the show was the panoramic vista. I watched as the sky transformed into a riot of colors, painting the canyons and plateaus in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, one that I will cherish forever.


Discover delectable desserts and fresh salads at Restaurante Penhasco in beautiful Chapada dos Guimarães - a sweet escape into nature's embrace.

Tonight, as I reflect on my day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Chapada dos Guimarães has a way of slowing you down, of making you appreciate the simple things in life. It's a place where you can reconnect with nature, discover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And as I prepare for my final day here, I am excited to see what other surprises this magical place has in store. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Waterfall Turtle and Portaria Mirante do Centro Geodésico, and perhaps enjoy a final evening at Bodega da Chapada before heading back to Montreal. But for now, I will savor the peace and quiet of this beautiful night, knowing that Chapada dos Guimarães will forever hold a special place in my heart.

I am also reminded of how much Jean-Pierre and Sofia would have loved this place. Perhaps we can plan a trip here together sometime soon. I know they would both appreciate the natural beauty and the sense of tranquility that Chapada offers. And maybe, just maybe, I can convince Jean-Pierre to disconnect from his architecture projects for a few days and simply be present in the moment. I know it would do him good. As for Sofia, I can already imagine her taking hundreds of photos of the waterfalls and rock formations, capturing the essence of Chapada through her unique lens. It's a beautiful thought, and one that I will hold onto as I drift off to sleep tonight.

And I must remember to buy some bug spray before my next adventure. I completely forgot to pack it, and the mosquitoes here can be quite persistent. Sunglasses would also be a good idea, as the sun can be quite strong during the day. But these are minor details in the grand scheme of things. What truly matters is the experience, the memories, and the connections that I have made along the way. And in that regard, Chapada dos Guimarães has exceeded all of my expectations. Ciao!