Morro do Cantagalo gives Tornos do Pinto a clear connection to hiking and scenery. From the hill, you can enjoy views across northern Santa Catarina.

Hiking trail and scenery at Morro do Cantagalo

The trail to the hill runs mostly along old logging roads and is considered a moderately difficult hike. Along the way is a centuries-old fig tree. The trail also passes two clearings: one is on the south side, the other in the middle of the hill. A cascade lies 100 metres off the trail. As trail conditions can change, check the latest conditions before setting out.

Local legends about the hill

According to local legend, there is a passage to another world in Morro do Cantagalo, guarded by a small golden rooster. Local belief holds that a large, roughly circular boulder stands at the summit and is associated with unusual occurrences. These stories give the hiking destination a folkloric dimension alongside its trail and scenery.

São Francisco do Sul: broader cultural and natural context

The broader destination of São Francisco do Sul also offers a focus on cultural history. The original town centre, comprising 400 properties, was designated a heritage site by Iphan in 1987. The Igreja Matriz Nossa Senhora da Graça was built from 1699 onwards using mortar made from sand, lime, shells and whale oil. The former facilities of Forte Marechal Luz are also among the historic landmarks of São Francisco do Sul. Boi de Mamão is a cultural tradition of the destination.

Vila da Glória lies in the mainland part of São Francisco do Sul. It has beaches, waterfalls and mountains, and the area is part of the Grande Reserva Mata Atlântica. Morro da Esperança and the trail or rocky shoreline at Prainha are considered trekking options. Prainha and Praia Grande are regarded as important local surfing beaches and are known for their larger waves; wave conditions vary. The rock formations around Morro do Pão de Açúcar make São Francisco do Sul one of the particularly suitable places for climbing in southern Brazil. Sandboarding is possible on the dunes of Praia Grande in Parque Estadual do Acaraí. Access conditions may vary.

A regular boat service connects Vila da Glória with the Centro Histórico. Check the latest timetable before planning your trip.

Choose your travel focus

If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Tornos do Pinto, first decide what you want to focus on: would you like to centre your trip on hiking at Morro do Cantagalo, or would you prefer to plan your trip around the broader cultural and natural attractions of São Francisco do Sul?

Discover more destinations: Saí, Ponta do Rei.

Back to the broader travel overview: São Francisco do Sul.