Estrada Real
Brazil
The Royal Road built in the 1700s to carry gold and diamonds from the Minas interior to the coast. This stretch, the Caminho dos Diamantes, connects UNESCO Ouro Preto through the colonial hill towns of Tiradentes and São João del-Rei to the diamond capital of Diamantina, birthplace of President JK.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Ouro Preto
UNESCO Baroque capital of colonial Minas, with 13 churches on steep hillsides and the Museu da Inconfidência in the main square.
- Mariana
Minas Gerais's first colonial capital, 12 km from Ouro Preto. Twin Baroque towers of the Cathedral Basilica face the main praça.
- Conceição do Mato Dentro
Gateway to the Tabuleiro waterfall, one of Brazil's tallest. The Caminho dos Diamantes passes through this quiet colonial village.
- Serro
Cradle of the UNESCO-recognised Serro artisan cheese. Every roadside stall sells wheels of this 18th-century tradition.
- Milho Verde
A tiny, perfectly preserved diamond-trail village of whitewashed houses and dirt streets, barely changed since the 1700s.
- Diamantina
UNESCO diamond-boom town on the cerrado escarpment. President Kubitschek, who built Brasília, was born on these cobbled streets.
Where to Eat
- Caliandra Café e VinhoCafé
Cozy café offering a selection of fine wines and artisanal pastries in a charming setting.
- Ai que DelíciaLocal Diner
Traditional eatery serving authentic Minas Gerais cuisine with a homely atmosphere.
- Bar Ovelha NegraBar
Popular bar known for its lively ambiance and variety of local drinks and snacks.
- Pousada Estrada Real RestaurantLocal Diner
Restaurant offering traditional dishes of the region in a rustic and welcoming environment.
Things to Do
- Cachoeira do TabuleiroWaterfall
Majestic 273-meter waterfall, the highest in Minas Gerais, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
- Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da ConceiçãoHistoric Site
Historic church dating back to 1702, showcasing colonial architecture and rich history.
- Cachoeira do CarijóWaterfall
Scenic waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for swimming and relaxation.
- Igreja de Nossa Senhora do RosárioHistoric Site
Charming 18th-century church built with wood and clay, reflecting the region's colonial heritage.