Pousada of the former monastic school of the Santuario do Caraca is located not far from Ouro Preto, in the mountains of Minas Gerais. This region is especially appreciated by nature lovers, hiking groups and bird watchers because of its unspoiled nature. The monastery, built in 1779, is an ideal retreat for contemplation and relaxation. In addition, the monastery's accommodation is famous for its local rustic cuisine, homemade liqueurs and sweets. Guests enjoy full board here. The accommodation is still managed by the Catholic Church and the extensive grounds are home to a museum, several large lounges, catacombs, wine cellars and a church. Especially in the late afternoon and early morning, with a bit of luck, various mammals such as anteaters, maned wolves and monkeys as well as numerous bird species can be sighted in close proximity to the accommodation.
Convent Pousada do Caraca - Serra do Caraca
Location
The former monastery Santuario do Caraca is located 30 miles (50 kilometers) from the colonial city of Ouro Preto and is part of the Royal Gold Route, on which the Portuguese transported gold from Minas Gerais to the port of Rio de Janeiro. Today the region is known for its huge iron ore deposits. The international airport Confins in Belo Horizonte can be reached by car in about three hours. The monastery is located in a nature reserve, about 18 miles (30 kilometers) from the nearest town of Santa Barbara. Pousada do Caraca is therefore an ideal starting point for hiking tours and beach walks to the nearby rivers and waterfalls.
Rooms and Facilities
Pousada do Caraca has 39 standard rooms, 2 Imperial Suites and some other rooms, as well as guesthouses for larger groups. All in all, the accommodation offers space for about 150 guests. Wi-Fi is only available in the common rooms. All rooms are equipped with:
- Minibar
Extras
At Pousada do Caraca full board is included in the overnight stay.
Other amenities include water dispensers for drinking bottles, a church, a restaurant, a coffee shop, a local museum, a visitor center and common rooms. The reception of Pousada do Caraca is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. Over the many years a family of rare and jumpy maned wolves has gotten used to the curious visitors. After dinner there is a very good chance to watch these impressive animals on the stairs of the church from close up.
Check-in from 2:00 p.m. | Checkout until 12:00 noon.
Image Credits: Fotos by Eduardo Franco / Minas Nature: 2x Manned Wolf | Severin Dahlmeier / Kopa Turismo: Nature Leonardo Rosa / Guara Turismo: Aerial view | Pedro Thomasi: Trekking
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