What to do in Cunha, Brazil
Cunha is not the kind of place you stumble upon by accident. People who go there, go on purpose. And those who go once, come back.
Nestled between the Serra do Mar, Serra da Bocaina, and Serra do Quebra-Cangalha, about 230 km from São Paulo and 46 km from Paraty, the town has a rare quality: it offers a lot without rushing you. Here, your itinerary does not need to be rigid. You only need to know what is there—and the visit almost plans itself.
Nature that hits you up close
For many visitors, the Lavandário is the starting point—and rightly so. More than 40,000 lavender plants grow along the Cunha–Paraty road, open to visitors Friday through Sunday and on public holidays. Late afternoon, when the sun drops over the fields, is the busiest time, for good reason.
Further along the same road, Pedra da Macela asks for effort but pays you back. The trail—just over 2 km—climbs to about 1,840 metres and opens a 360° view that reaches Paraty, Angra dos Reis, and, on clear days, the sea. It is the highest point in town and one of the most striking lookouts in the state of São Paulo.
If you prefer water, Canto das Cachoeiras and Cachoeira do Pimenta are among the most visited. Short trails, preserved forest, and that classic mountain-stream temperature you do not forget. The Contemplário, free to enter, with flower fields to wander, is worth a full afternoon too.
The ceramics that made the town famous
Cunha is the national capital of high-temperature ceramics—and the title is not just for show. Along the SP-171, studios line up in a circuit that blends art, history, and craft. Each space has its own language, its kilns, its rhythm.
Gaia Arte Cerâmica is one of the most visited. Casa do Artesão, in the town centre, brings together around 60 local makers with ceramics, wood, silver, and textiles. Many studios open their doors so you can watch the process—including noborigama firings, a Japanese technique that makes every piece one of a kind.
Food that respects the land
Cunha’s cooking is honest. River trout, roasted pine nuts, artisan cheese, corn bread. Restaurante Quebra Cangalha is one of the classics, with farmhouse cooking for anyone who wants real food. Il Pumo, near the municipal market, stands out for its décor and thoughtful menu.
Cunha has its cafés too—welcoming spots in town and along the road, with fireplaces in winter, views of the hills, and the quiet you only get in the countryside. Good reasons to sit down and take your time.
A calendar that never stops
Throughout the year, Cunha becomes a stage. The cheese festival, Acordes na Serra, the pine-nut festival, and craft-beer events keep the town busy and build a calendar that alone can justify a planned visit.
Check upcoming dates on the Viva Cunha events calendar and find the best time for your trip.
Where to start
Most of Cunha’s highlights sit along the SP-171, toward Paraty. A car is essential: there is no urban transit or ride-hailing. In two days you can cover the essentials; with three or four, you can slow down and enjoy each stop.
To find inns, restaurants, studios, and more, explore the Viva Cunha interactive map and build an itinerary with local curation.