São Joaquim brings together the history of the municipality, a striking winter scene, and experiences centered on wine and apples. If you’re looking for a hotel for your stay, you can first decide what you’d like to focus on: culture at Praça João Ribeiro, araucaria trees in the landscape, or local food and wine. These different themes give your stay a distinctive character.

History and Winter at Praça João Ribeiro

The Monumento Manoel Joaquim Pinto stands beside the town hall at Praça João Ribeiro and presents the history of the municipality of São Joaquim. Its 230 m² area is divided into three sections. Interactive, educational historical and geographical information covers São Joaquim and the saga of the Tropeiros, who opened up this region. The attraction is aimed at local residents and tourists. The monument was designed and built by sculptor Elson Kiotaka Outuky (in memoriam).

Praça João Ribeiro was formerly known as Jardim da Igreja. Its features include paved paths, flower beds, and a bandstand used for local events. If an event is going to be a highlight of your visit, check the schedule in advance. On the coldest days, the small lake with a fountain in the square freezes over; in winter, the trees there also turn into ice sculptures.

Church and Local History

The Igreja Matriz de São Joaquim was built entirely from Pedra Ferro. This basalt, found in abundance in the region, is difficult to work with—a distinctive feature of the church’s construction.

The Museu Histórico Assis Chateaubriand offers a different perspective on local history: it looks back at the history of São Joaquim and recounts Assis Chateaubriand’s stay in the city after he “fled” from Florianópolis. Please check the latest visitor information before your visit.

Araucaria Trees in the Landscape

Mirante dos Pinheiros is surrounded by araucaria trees, characteristic of the Serra Catarinense. They can grow up to 50 meters tall. This gives the spot a scenic character distinct from the winter sights at Praça João Ribeiro: here, araucaria trees shape the view, while there, it’s the lake, fountain, and trees covered in ice in winter.

Wine, Apple Harvest, and Special Experiences

The five hectares of vineyards at Vinícola Leone di Venezia blend into the landscape of Morro Agudo and Vale do Rio Antonina. They are located at an elevation of 1,280 meters. At Vinhedos do Monte Agudo, the Sunset experience includes a wine tasting hosted by a sommelier, an oenologist, or the winery owner. It also includes information about the history and interesting facts about the family, winery, and vineyards. A wine picnic outdoors is also offered.

The Trilha da Maior Araucária do Brasil at Fazenda Pinheirão is visited by quad bike. Tours take place at around 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. by prior appointment. Confirm the time and availability before your trip.

Find Hotels in São Joaquim Based on Your Interests

Discover more destinations: Papanduva, Gravatal, Pomerode, Araquari, Vargem Bonita, São Bento Do Sul, Rio Negrinho, Mafra

For the main travel overview: Santa Catarina.