Mato Verde brings together history and nature in different ways: its settlement dates back to 1872, while waterfalls, viewpoints and trails offer opportunities for hiking, cycling and walking. When looking for a vacation rental, it’s worth first deciding whether you’d rather spend your time exploring cultural sites and regional products or hiking and visiting waterfalls. There are practical differences, too: visits to Alambique Siderite require an appointment in advance, and the trail to Poço do Ouro has steep, sharply uphill sections.
History, Architecture and Festivals
The settlement that developed into Mato Verde was established in 1872 at the initiative of Bishop D. João Antônio dos Santos. Local vegetation gave Mato Verde its name; according to historical accounts, it remains green throughout the year. Adobe houses and other traditional architectural features connected with the town’s early history are preserved at Praça Capitão Possidônio Silveira. Casa da Cultura is a public venue dedicated to preserving Mato Verde’s history and collective memory. Igreja de Pimpinha is considered part of Mato Verde’s public and cultural heritage.
The Feast of Santo Antônio de Pádua is an annual tradition in Mato Verde, with evidence of the tradition dating back to 1883. Igreja Matriz de Santo Antônio hosts an annual 13-day festival that combines religious and cultural events and brings residents and visitors together. If you’re planning your trip around a festival, confirm the specific dates in advance.
Cachaça and Regional Products
Alambique Siderite preserves a cachaça-making tradition that dates back to the 1950s and has been passed down through generations. Visits are by appointment only; confirm yours before traveling. During a visit, you can learn about the artisanal production process and the history of the family that runs the distillery. Products are available for purchase on site.
On market days, Mercado Municipal Antônio Barbosa Neto offers regional products including handmade sweets, honey, Minas cheese, requeijão, pequi oil and traditional Cerrado fruits. The market complements the cachaça tradition with a variety of products, from sweets and honey to cheese, oil and fruit.
Waterfalls, Viewpoints and Trails
Cachoeira Maria Rosa can reach a drop of about 90 meters when water levels are high. This typically happens between June and October, although conditions vary from year to year. The route from Mato Verde is 12 kilometers in total and follows the road to the community of Melancias. Check road conditions and signage before setting off. Free parking for cars and motorcycles is available near the waterfall; check local parking conditions before your trip.
Cachoeira Véu de Noiva lies next to Cachoeira Maria Rosa in a more secluded setting and can be reached by trail. Poço do Ouro is about 200 meters above Cachoeira Maria Rosa. The trail there is moderately difficult, with steep and sharply uphill sections. This makes it different from Poço da Prata, where two small waterfalls create a peaceful setting for enjoying nature. If you’re looking for a moderately difficult hike, Poço do Ouro is a good option; Poço da Prata is more suited to enjoying nature.
For a wide view of the city, head to Mirante São Bento. It is at one of the city’s highest points and is also a good spot for watching the sunset. Another activity is available at Pista José Péricles Custódio Jorge, also known as Zé do Correio: cycling and walking. The natural attractions each have a distinct focus, from a trail with steep climbs and small waterfalls to a panoramic view of the city.
Minas Gerais in a Broader Context
The state of Minas Gerais has 94 protected areas, safeguarding almost 2 million hectares across three biomes: the Atlantic Forest, Cerrado and Caatinga. Tourism is established in 17 of the state’s nature parks. The artisanal production of Minas cheese is also recognized as Brazilian cultural heritage.
Discover more destinations: Padre Paraíso, Lagoa Dourada, Peçanha, Formiga, Córrego do Bom Jesus, Brasópolis, Pratápolis, Ouro Preto.
For the broader travel overview: Minas Gerais.
