Just two hours from the bustling metropolis of São Paulo is Águas de São Pedro. The smallest municipality in the state and the second smallest in Brazil, it has an area of just 3.64 km².
Despite its compact size, its history is noteworthy. After all, it is the only Brazilian city designed and built with the purpose of being a hydro-mineral resort.
The history of Águas de São Pedro
On the official website of the Águas de São Pedro City Council, the city is defined as “different”. This is because, “here, nothing is the result of chance, but rather the consequence of a modern and innovative project aimed at its implementation”.
The municipality was only created in 1948, when it was emancipated from the then existing São Pedro. However, the history of the resort begins 28 years earlier.
This is because Águas de São Pedro was born when its founder, Dr. Octavio Moura Andrade, discovered the medicinal properties of the mineral water springs in the region.
In 1935, Octavio Moura Andrade requested analyses of the mineral waters from USP’s Institute of Technological Research. The final results of these analyses were published in Boletim 26 in October 1940, after four years of repeated experiments.
Once the results of the first analyses of the quality of the waters had been confirmed, Moura Andrade began to buy the land needed to set up the new Águas de São Pedro resort.
Thus, 1,600 hectares were acquired for the construction of a new town near the site of the “Youth” spring, about 8 km from São Pedro.
Tourist Attractions and Natural Beauty
Today, Águas de São Pedro is one of the 11 municipalities in São Paulo considered to be hydro-mineral resorts.
Known for its thermal waters and medicinal properties, it attracts tourists in search of relaxation and well-being.
The town has modern spas offering a wide range of therapeutic treatments and leisure activities.
The Fonte da Juventude (Fountain of Youth) is home to the second highest water content in the world and the first in the Americas in terms of sulphur salts. Oral use or immersion baths are good for treating rheumatism, diabetes, allergies, asthma, colitis, skin diseases, intoxication and inflammation.
In addition, contact with nature is a constant in Águas de São Pedro. After all, the small town has beautiful parks and gardens that offer moments of contemplation and tranquillity.
The Dr. Octavio Moura Andrade Municipal Park, for example, is ideal for walks and picnics, as well as having a children’s play area.
Parque das Águas is a true natural refuge, with trails, lakes and a rich flora and fauna.
With a population of around 3,000, it’s a place where you can enjoy a more peaceful and welcoming pace of life.
So if you’re looking for a peaceful refuge, surrounded by natural beauty and with a cozy atmosphere, Águas de São Pedro is the perfect destination.
Located just two hours from the city of São Paulo, this charming little town offers a unique experience, where you can relax in the thermal waters, explore parks and gardens, enjoy the local cuisine and disconnect from the hectic pace of urban life.
Where to stay
If you’re thinking of visiting Águas de São Pedro, a sophisticated option is the LS Villas Hotel & SPA. With a swimming pool, massage, spa and thermal baths, we guarantee a relaxing stay.
If you want to completely relax in the middle of nature, you should book the Águas Chalés Temporada. As well as a cozy stay, the chalets have a leisure area and comfortable hammocks to relax in.
For those who want a luxurious stay, our tip is the São Pedro Thermas Resort. As well as a heated indoor pool, the hotel has a spa, hot tub, gym and refined decor.