Lavras
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Lavras's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to the Praça Dr. Augusto Silva, the heart of Lavras, where the colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Brazilian pastries like pão de queijo and a strong cup of coffee. Wander through the surrounding streets, admiring the beautiful churches and historical buildings that date back to the 19th century.
After lunch at a quaint restaurant featuring regional dishes, take a guided tour of the Museu Histórico de Lavras to delve deeper into the city's rich history. Stroll through the nearby Parque das Águas, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. As the afternoon progresses, consider visiting local artisan shops to pick up unique handicrafts as souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a local eatery for dinner, where you can indulge in Lavras' famous feijoada, a hearty black bean stew. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk around the illuminated Praça Dr. Augusto Silva, where you can enjoy live music or street performances. Conclude your evening with a dessert stop at a local gelateria, sampling flavors inspired by Brazilian fruits.
Begin your day with an early trip to the nearby Serra do Ouro, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse bird species. Equip yourself with binoculars and a field guide, and set off on a guided nature walk where you can spot colorful tropical birds and learn about local flora. The fresh morning air and the sounds of nature create the perfect backdrop for this immersive experience.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch in the serene environment of the park, taking in the breathtaking views. Continue your adventure with a hike along one of the well-marked trails, where you can experience the rich biodiversity of the region. Be sure to take plenty of photos as you encounter picturesque waterfalls and panoramic vistas.
Return to Lavras in the early evening, where you can enjoy a hearty dinner featuring local cuisine at a rustic restaurant. After dinner, take a stroll through the town, perhaps stopping at a bar to taste some local craft beer or cachaça. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make for a delightful end to your day.
Start your morning at the bustling Mercado Municipal de Lavras, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade goods, chatting with friendly vendors along the way. Sample various local delicacies, including fresh fruits and baked goods, as you explore the market.
After a morning of sensory exploration, enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant that emphasizes farm-to-table ingredients. Spend your afternoon learning about Lavras' agricultural roots by visiting a local farm, where you can see how coffee and other crops are grown and harvested. Engage with the farmers and taste some of the freshest produce you’ve ever experienced.
As evening approaches, return to the town center for a cultural event or workshop, such as a cooking class focused on traditional Brazilian dishes. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow travelers and locals as you prepare and share a meal together. Cap off the night with a visit to a local café where you can sip on coffee while listening to live music.
Take a short drive to Lagoa dos Patos, a picturesque lake perfect for water activities. Spend your morning kayaking or paddleboarding while enjoying the serene surroundings and the reflection of the mountains on the water. The calm atmosphere makes it an ideal time for some peaceful exploration and connection with nature.
After a morning of adventure, settle down for a picnic lunch by the lakeside, taking in the stunning scenery. In the afternoon, try fishing or simply relax on the shore, soaking up the sun and the tranquility of the area. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bike and explore the scenic trails that wind around the lake.
As the sun sets, gather around a bonfire by the lake for a barbecue dinner, where you can grill freshly caught fish or local meats. Share stories and enjoy the warmth of the fire as the stars begin to twinkle in the clear night sky. This magical setting creates lasting memories of your time by the lake.
Embark on a journey to the historic mining sites near Lavras, where you can learn about the gold rush that shaped the region. Start with a guided tour of the old mining operations to understand the techniques used by miners in the past. The knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and facts that bring the area's mining history to life.
After the tour, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning natural surroundings, giving you a chance to reflect on the morning's adventure. Spend the afternoon exploring the remnants of the mining operations, including old tools and machinery, while taking in the dramatic landscapes. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the unique geological formations.
Return to Lavras in the evening and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that features traditional mine-inspired dishes. Engage with locals who can share their own family stories about the mining era in Lavras, deepening your understanding of the culture. To end the day, enjoy a nightcap at a local bar, sipping on a cocktail made with local ingredients.
Spend a leisurely morning at Parque Municipal, a beautiful green space ideal for relaxation and recreation. Start with a refreshing walk or jog along the well-maintained trails, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the sights of nature. Afterward, find a cozy spot to relax with a book or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
After a restful morning, have a picnic lunch in the park, featuring local delicacies you've picked up from the market. Spend the afternoon participating in park activities such as playing volleyball or frisbee with locals, or simply lounge by the small lake watching the ducks. The friendly atmosphere allows for easy mingling with residents and other visitors.
As evening falls, join a community yoga class that takes place in the park, allowing you to unwind and connect with nature. Following yoga, enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant specializing in healthy, organic options that reflect the farm-to-table movement. Take a final stroll through the park as the sun sets, appreciating the beauty of Lavras at twilight.
Kick off your day with a visit to local art galleries and studios that showcase Lavras' vibrant art scene. Meet local artists and learn about their work, gaining insights into the inspiration behind their creative processes. Spend time browsing through unique pieces, from paintings to handcrafted pottery, all reflecting the cultural identity of the region.
After a morning of artistic exploration, head to a nearby café for lunch, where you can enjoy local dishes while surrounded by artistic decor. Spend your afternoon participating in a hands-on workshop where you can create your own piece of art, whether it be painting, pottery, or another craft. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the local culture in a unique way.
As night falls, return to the art galleries for an evening opening or event, where you can mingle with local artists and art enthusiasts. Enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks while appreciating the latest works on display. This vibrant atmosphere is a perfect conclusion to a day dedicated to exploring the creative spirit of Lavras.
Start your day with a guided tour of a local market, where you'll discover the fresh ingredients used in Brazilian cooking. Meet local vendors, and learn about seasonal products, spices, and traditional cooking methods from your knowledgeable guide. This immersive experience will set the stage for your cooking adventure later in the day.
After gathering the freshest ingredients, join a cooking class led by a local chef who will teach you how to prepare traditional Lavras dishes. Get hands-on experience in the kitchen as you chop, stir, and sauté your way through each recipe, while learning about the cultural significance of the dishes you are making. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by indulging in the meal you've prepared together.
As the evening approaches, gather around the table with fellow cooking class participants to share a delicious dinner filled with laughter and camaraderie. Reflect on the day’s experiences while savoring the flavors of traditional Lavras cuisine. End the night with a dessert-making session, creating a sweet Brazilian treat to enjoy.
Set off early for a day trip to one of the renowned coffee plantations located just outside Lavras. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour that takes you through the coffee-growing process, from seed to cup, as you learn about the unique characteristics of Brazilian coffee. As you stroll through the lush fields, take in the aromatic scents and beautiful landscapes.
After the tour, indulge in a coffee tasting session where you can sample various roasts and learn to distinguish their flavors and aromas. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian lunch at the plantation, featuring local ingredients and dishes, all while surrounded by stunning views of the coffee fields. Take some time to wander the grounds, perhaps purchasing some freshly roasted coffee to take home.
Return to Lavras in the evening and unwind with a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on your day surrounded by the beauty of Lavras and the rich history of coffee in Brazil. To finish off, savor a cup of the plantation's coffee as you share stories and experiences from your adventurous day.