Canela

Canela, a town in southern Brazil's Serra Gaúcha region, sits at an elevation of 837 meters above sea level. Visitors can explore the 131-meter Caracol Falls, admire the Gothic-style Stone Cathedral, or stroll through lush parks like Parque da Ferradura. The town's Gaucho traditions are evident in local customs and cuisine, including the popular churrasco barbecue. Canela is also known for its chocolates and café colonial, a meal featuring an array of local breads, jams, and cheeses.

Location and Climate in Canela

Canela is situated in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil's southernmost state. The town has a subtropical humid climate. Summer temperatures average around 20°C, while winters can be cold, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing. Light snowfall sometimes occurs during winter months, attracting many domestic tourists to witness this rare sight in Brazil.

Natural Landmarks in Canela

Parque do Caracol houses Canela's most recognizable natural landmark, Caracol Falls. This 131-meter waterfall cascades down a basalt cliff, surrounded by native Araucaria trees. You can view the falls from an observation deck or take a challenging 927-step descent to see it up close. Canela has several other parks with hiking trails and viewpoints, such as Parque da Ferradura, where you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and rivers.

Canela's Distinctive Architecture

The Catedral de Pedra (Stone Cathedral) stands out in Canela's skyline. This Gothic-style church, built by Italian immigrants, has a 65-meter tower housing 12 bronze bells. Its stone construction and intricate details make it a focal point of the town. You can visit the cathedral and join guided tours to learn more about its history and architecture.

Outdoor Recreation in and Around Canela

Canela's varied landscape provides many options for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike in the town's numerous parks, try rock climbing, or go horseback riding in the countryside. For a more adventurous experience, head to the Paranhana River for white water rafting. The river has level 3 rapids, suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

Gaucho Culture and Traditions

Canela has deep roots in Gaucho culture, the traditional lifestyle of southern Brazilian cowboys. You can experience this heritage through local customs, traditional dances, and by participating in a chimarrão circle. Chimarrão is a hot herbal tea served in a special gourd and shared among friends. Many restaurants in town serve authentic churrasco, the traditional Gaucho barbecue featuring various cuts of meat grilled over open flames.

Local Culinary Specialties

Canela's local produce and specialties are worth trying. The "café colonial" is a meal featuring an array of local breads, jams, cakes, cheeses, and cured meats. The town also has several chocolate factories where you can taste and buy high-quality Brazilian chocolates. Many of these factories offer tours and workshops where you can learn about the chocolate-making process.

Transportation to Canela

The nearest major city to Canela is Porto Alegre, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul. From Porto Alegre, you can reach Canela by car or bus in about two hours. Two routes are available: a shorter route via RS 115 and RS 020, or a longer but more scenic route via BR 116 and through the city of Novo Hamburgo. Canela also has a small airport for those who prefer to fly directly to the town.

Day Trip to Gramado

Gramado, a popular tourist town, is located just 7 kilometers from Canela. Known for its German-inspired architecture and annual Christmas celebrations, Gramado has a different atmosphere from Canela. Regular buses connect the two towns, making it easy to visit both during your stay in the region. In Gramado, you can explore the downtown area, visit theme parks, or try its renowned restaurants.