In addition to being nationally known for its cachaça production, Monte Alegre do Sul is a sure bet and an off-the-beaten-path destination for anyone looking to escape the cold in São Paulo. This gem of São Paulo’s Circuito das Águas has the welcoming and peaceful atmosphere of a small town that’s definitely worth a visit!
With just over 8,000 residents, Monte Alegre do Sul is located in the Mantiqueira Mountains, near Amparo and Campinas. In other words, it’s about two hours from the capital of São Paulo.
The municipality is now officially recognized as a tourist and hydromineralresort, a title granted to cities with water resources of therapeutic and tourist interest.
This state recognition has established the city as a major destination for those seeking thermal and mineral waters in São Paulo. As a result, the municipality has seen increased investment in water-based tourism, driving the opening of hotels, spas, and public fountains.
The Heart of the Waters: The Bom Jesus Spring
The most famous of the ten springs in the region, the Bom Jesus Spring is located in the city center. With natural mineral water from the local aquifer, the spring has become a pilgrimage site, attracting residents and tourists alike for its medicinal properties.
Visitors often use the spring water to help treat skin conditions and musculoskeletal problems, thanks to the combination of minerals it contains. This chemical composition of the water is typical of hydromineral resorts.
With mineral salts such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulfur, and iron, a balanced pH, and, in some cases, slight radioactivity, the medicinal waters offer specific benefits for each system of the body.
That’s why locals consider them“miraculous.” In addition to Bom Jesus, Monte Alegre do Sul is also home to Fonte Luiza, whose mineral composition is recommended for those suffering from digestive problems, rheumatism, and skin conditions.
What to do in Monte Alegre do Sul?
Speaking of São Paulo’s tradition of thermal waters and the city’s medicinal properties, you can visit the Balneário Municipal. There, the facility uses the water for immersion baths, hydromassage, showers, and saunas.
Thus, you’re not limited to simply drinking the water; you can also relax thanks to the combined effects of water pressure, mineral composition, and temperature.
However, the city isn’t limited to just its springs: the destination also offers itineraries featuring waterfalls, such as the Mostardas and Falcão waterfalls, providing excellent options for those who enjoy water and direct contact with nature.
In addition to enjoying the region’s mountain climate through hiking, you can also take in the panoramic view of the town and the mountains. The Cruzeiro and Cristo Redentor lookouts are elevated points located at an altitude of approximately 890 meters.
