Between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo lies the charming district of Penedo, located in the municipality of Itatiaia. The small and
Photo: shutterstock-Alexandre-Rotenbergcharming region was founded in 1929 as the only Finnish colony in the country. The influence of Finnish immigrants was very strong, and even today it is possible to enjoy a bit of this rich European culture.
Accommodation options abound in the city. One tip is to stay in the center, as it is where the restaurants and main attractions are located. However, it is necessary to book in advance, especially if you plan to go on weekends or holidays.
On the first Saturday of the month or on holidays, you can enjoy and dance to the sounds of traditional polka, jenkka, and other Finnish folk rhythms at the traditional Finland Club. At the Dona Eva Finnish Museum, you can appreciate an incredible collection of
Photo: shutterstock-JR-Moreiraobjects, crafts, and artworks brought from the Nordic country.
Another attraction that draws visitors, especially children, is Little Finland. The place reproduces a village with typical architecture of small towns in Finland and has as its main attraction Santa Claus’s House.
With a mountain climate, Penedo is also a delightful gastronomic hub. Visitors have a variety of restaurants at their disposal, some serving Brazilian food, primarily trout and fish abundant in the region, and others offering international cuisine, with options for sauerkraut and other delicacies.
Ice creams, prepared according to the traditional Finnish recipe
Photo: shutterstock-Dirk-M.-de-Boerand Penedo’s artisanal chocolates are also local highlights. At the Chocolate Factory, you can indulge in bars, truffles, and bonbons.
Among the ecotourism options, the Deus Waterfall and the Three Waterfalls form good natural pools that are suitable for swimming. If you prefer to go further up the mountain, enjoy the attractions of Visconde de Mauá.
In addition to Penedo, Brazil is full of other cities with European influences. In São Paulo, there is Campos do Jordão. In the south of the country, you can see a bit of Europe in Joinville, Blumenau, Gramado, Canela, Bento Gonçalves, and many others.
Source: www.visitbrasil.com