Lagoa Nova combines a mountain climate, viewpoints and local history. The municipality lies entirely within the Seridó Geopark, which was recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2022. The town’s main attraction is the mountain climate of the Serra de Santana. Squares and buildings also reflect religious, cultural and economic aspects of the municipality.

Mountain Climate and Viewpoints

The coolest season runs from June to August; during these months, overnight lows can drop to 15 °C. An extra layer of clothing is a good idea for evenings at this time of year. Nearby, the Mirante Santa Rita viewpoint sits at an elevation of 733 m. From there, you can see Currais Novos and part of the Serra da Umburana. The viewpoint is 3.5 km east-southeast of the centre, on the RN-087 towards Cerro Corá, on the southern Serra de Santana. Check local road conditions before setting off.

In the rural area of Sítio Cabeço, there is a viewpoint 3.5 km from the town centre. Its panoramic view takes in the Serra de Santana, reservoirs and towns in the region. Another geographical landmark is closer to the town centre: the lagoon that gave Lagoa Nova its name is within the urban area, about 500 m from the centre.

Local History and Culture

In Povoado Manoel Domingos, the present-day Nossa Senhora da Conceição chapel was built by José Domingos in 1948. The Cruzeiro Baraúna marks the site of the town’s first mass and is of sociocultural and political significance to the municipality. A 2022 directory mentions religious visits and educational activities at the Cruzeiro; check accessibility in advance.

The Biblioteca Municipal Bernadete Xavier Gomes is in the centre and was founded on 26 April 1973. Also in the centre is the Mercado Público Municipal, with its Art Deco architecture. A 2012 cultural report records folk groups and a brass band made up exclusively of girls. This information offers a historical glimpse into cultural life; it is not a current events schedule.

Cashews, the Market and Regional Cuisine

Cashew production is Lagoa Nova’s most important economic activity. The cashew fruit is also considered a symbol of local fruit growing and an emblem of the municipality. Built in 2014, the entrance portal is inspired by the cashew fruit and reflects this local connection.

At the Feira Livre in the centre, stalls offer fruit, vegetables, prepared foods, regional products, clothing and handicrafts. The range of products may change. For a food-focused visit, Casa da Serra Café Bistrô is another specific place to visit: it is located on the RN-087 in Sítio Santa Rita near Lagoa Nova and opened on 25 December 2021. A description from 2022 mentions contemporary cuisine with a regional touch. Check whether the café is currently open before visiting.

An Offering at the Geossítio Mirante de Santa Rita

Portal do Universo is part of the Geossítio Mirante de Santa Rita and is located 3.5 km from the centre. A description from 2022 mentions relaxation, meditation and therapeutic massage experiences there. Check in advance whether these offerings are currently available. This lets you consider the viewpoint and the described wellness offerings as separate aspects of this Geossítio without assuming that the services are available.

Discover more destinations: São Bento do Trairi, Arês, Baía Formosa, Angicos, Nísia Floresta.

Return to the regional travel overview: Rio Grande Do Norte.