About Lavras Novas
Lavras Novas, a district of Ouro Preto located just 17 km from the municipal seat, was founded around 1716 and enchants visitors with its mountain landscapes. Home to a community with a strong Afro-Brazilian cultural presence, the village inspired the short story “A Garganta do Inferno” (1871) by Bernardo Guimarães. Discovered by tourism in the 1990s, Lavras Novas continues to attract visitors seeking culture, tranquility, lush nature, and adventure, with its population growing up to sixfold during holidays.
With about 1,500 residents, the district preserves a charming colonial architecture and offers a variety of ecotourism activities. Known for its beautiful waterfalls and historic houses, Lavras Novas is an especially sought-after destination in winter thanks to its highland climate, with cool, pleasant nights even in summer. Surrounded by mountains that offer spectacular views, it's the ideal refuge for those seeking to escape the hustle of the city and reconnect with nature.
