Morretes

About

Founded on the banks of the Nhundiaquara River in the 18th century, Morretes is a historic city beloved by Brazilians and international visitors alike for its sleepy charms. Every visit should start with a walk along the riverfront, which is lined with trees and colonial buildings, and gives access to the “old bridge”. From here, just meander through the town center, admiring colonial buildings and maybe stop into some of the charming churches, like the Matron Church of Nossa Senhora do Porto or São Benedito Church. But what Morretes is perhaps best known for is its food and drink. The city has been a producer of cachaça, Brazil’s signature spirit, since colonial times, and if you head to Estrada do Anhaia you’ll find distilleries still producing the liquor in their original alembics. After you’ve worked up an appetite, stop for a lunch of barreado, a stew cooked for 24 hours.