For a stay in Lavras Novas, you can plan around the town’s history and nature experiences as distinct themes. In the town center is the Capela de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres; other specific destinations include viewpoints and waterfalls. The natural attractions differ both in their landscapes and in how they can be reached. This lets you choose activities according to your interests and the amount of effort you want to put into getting there.

Chapel and local history

The Capela de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres is in the center of Lavras Novas and was built in 1762. The street layout characteristic of the first settlements in Minas Gerais developed around it. The chapel’s central location and the development of the street scene go hand in hand when you explore the town’s history.

In front of the chapel stands a stone cross, symbolizing the faith and religious devotion of the first settlers. The Igreja de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres has three simple altars inside. Tourist routes combine the history of Lavras Novas with ecotourism, giving the connection between local history and nature a place in your travel plans as well.

Viewpoints with different perspectives

The Serra do Trovão Lookout offers a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountains. Visible landmarks include Serra do Caparaó, Serra da Chapada, Serra do Caraça, Ouro Branco, Pico do Itabirito and Itacolomi. Motorized vehicles are expressly prohibited on the route to the viewpoint. You can make the journey on foot, on horseback or by bicycle.

The Pedra Lookout is at the end of Rua da Fonte and is easy to reach without a hiking trail or strenuous hike. From there, you can see part of Serra do Itatiaia. The two viewpoints offer different perspectives: the Serra do Trovão lookout is known for its panoramic view, while Pedra Lookout offers a view of part of Serra do Itatiaia.

Waterfalls: routes and pools

Sweethearts' Waterfall (Cachoeira dos Namorados) can be reached on foot, by bicycle, on horseback or in a 4x4 vehicle. The trail is easy and about 1.5 kilometers long. Small, shallow pools form in the water, making them suitable for a refreshing swim.

Easy routes also lead to Three Drops Waterfall; you can hike, cycle or ride there. Its natural pool is shallow and crystal-clear. This differs from the route and landscape at Sweethearts' Waterfall, where small, shallow pools are also noted.

Little Pools Waterfall is 800 meters from the center of Lavras Novas. Its easy route begins near Rua Principal and takes about 15 minutes on foot. Several small pools of crystal-clear water and gentle cascades define the destination. The pools are suitable for a refreshing swim, while the rocks are a place to relax.

When planning your routes, the two waterfalls can be considered in different ways: for Little Pools Waterfall, the distance from the center and walking time are relevant, while Sweethearts' Waterfall has an easy trail listed as about 1.5 kilometers long. These different measurements can help you weigh the excursions against your own schedule for the day.

Plan your stay around your interests

When looking for a hotel in Lavras Novas, you can first decide what you want your stay to focus on: cultural history, mountain views or waterfalls. To plan your nature excursions, you can then use the information provided about route length, walking time and access options. This lets you choose excursions based on the experiences that matter to you.

Discover more destinations: Natércia, Parapeúna, Bueno Brandão, Iguatama, João Pinheiro, São Joaquim de Bicas, Inhaúma, Passa Tempo

See the broader travel overview: Minas Gerais.