São Roque Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to taste, and cultural etiquettes to follow in São Roque, Brazil. Plan your trip with our helpful travel guide.


Introduction to São Roque

Located in the heart of the Sorocabana region, São Roque is a hidden gem of the Southeast region of Brazil that offers visitors with a taste of culture, history, and adventure. This beautiful city in the state of São Paulo is home to some of Brazil’s oldest vineyards and wineries, boasting a fantastic wine-producing history that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can enjoy its sophisticated food and wine scene, explore the city’s rich history and architecture, and engage in a variety of outdoor activities amid its breathtaking lush landscapes. In this comprehensive tour guide, let’s discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to taste, and cultural etiquettes to follow in São Roque, Brazil.

List of Places to Visit in São Roque

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Museu do Vinho - This dedicated wine museum exhibits relics, tools, machinery, and historical records related to the wine-making and wine-drinking culture of São Roque. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of exhibits, such as antique wine presses, barrels, and bottles. Enthusiasts can also taste wine samples and browse through the unique collection of historical documents and photographs.
  2. Solar do século XVII - Immerse yourself in Brazilian history by visiting this colonial-era dwelling, reflecting the life of wealthy and notable landowners of the 17th century. Marvel at its beautiful architecture and interior design, enjoy a guided tour around the house, and get to know the interesting facts about its original owners.

Natural Attractions of São Roque: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Alambique Cachoeira - Nature lovers must visit this enchanting natural reserve, with its stunning waterfall and lush vegetation that forms a natural haven of peace and serenity. Take a dip in the waterfall’s refreshing pool, enjoy a nature hike or a simple walk in its beautiful surroundings.
  2. Pico do Marins - This is the highest peak in São Roque, standing at an impressive 2,422 meters above sea level. It’s a popular spot for hiking and trekking, with an extensive trail system that offers challenging trekking routes for advanced hikers and beginner trails too. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the sprawling landscapes of São Roque and its surrounding areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of São Roque

One of the best ways to explore São Roque’s natural beauty is by hiking or biking, whether you are a nature lover or an adrenaline junkie. Here are some of the best trails around São Roque:

  1. Trilha do Sabão - This easy hiking trail offers spectacular views of varied landscapes, such as waterfalls, farmland, and forests. The trail’s endpoint has an artisanal soap factory, where visitors can shop for organic, locally-made products.
  2. Estrada do Vinho - Cyclists will enjoy this picturesque route that passes along a scenic vineyard and wine-producing region. Visitors can stop to taste wine at the local wineries, enjoy a picnic, or simply enjoy the tranquil scenery.

Best Things to Do in São Roque: Activities and Tours

São Roque offers visitors a range of activities and tours that will keep travelers of all ages and interests engaged.

  1. Wine Tours - Wine enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the various wineries and vineyards of São Roque. Visitors can opt for guided tours that introduce them to winemaking processes, wine tasting, and learning about the region’s history of wine production.
  2. Hot Air Balloon Rides - Experience the thrill of soaring above breathtaking landscapes aboard a hot-air balloon ride. Witness stunning sunset views and panoramic scenery of São Roque’s vineyards and mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for São Roque

Visitors can enjoy a perfect week-long itinerary in São Roque with the following schedule:

Day 1-2: Visit historic and cultural landmarks in São Roque, such as the Solar do século XVII and the Museu do Vinho.

Day 3-4: Engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking and trekking in Pico do Marins or exploring the Alambique da Cachoeira reserve.

Day 5: Take a hot-air balloon ride for a breathtaking, bird’s-eye panorama of the region.

Day 6-7: Enjoy wine-tasting tours across the many vineyards of São Roque. Finish the trip by purchasing wine and other local products from the various street markets, souvenir shops, and vendors in the city center.

Food and Drink Scene of São Roque

São Roque’s food and drink scene is a foodie’s paradise and offers a fantastic range of tastes and flavors. Brazilian cuisine in São Roque is characterized by an influence of African and European cultures that reflect a mix of flavors and textures. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Frango a passarinho - a popular Brazilian fried chicken dish seasoned with garlic and herbs that is crispy and spicy.
  2. Feijão preto com arroz - Brazil’s national dish of black beans and rice that comes with various sides such as beef, plantain, and collard greens.

Local Beverages

  1. Wine - São Roque is famous for its wines, particularly the red wine variety, that has a rich and elegant flavor made with local grapes such as the cabernet sauvignon and merlot.
  2. Cachaça - A Brazilian distilled liquor made from sugarcane juice and is similar to rum in texture and aroma.

Where to Stay in São Roque: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

São Roque offers visitors plenty of options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Many of these options provide stunning views of the rich and natural landscapes of São Roque. Here are some of the best places to stay in São Roque:

  1. Hotel Villa Rossa - A luxurious hotel that offers tourists a spa, swimming pool, and rooftop restaurant with a spectacular view of the natural reserve.
  2. Pousada Canto das Corujas - This charming guest house is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a great getaway option for travelers looking to relax and enjoy a peaceful and quiet stay.

What to Buy in São Roque: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can bring back home some authentic local products and souvenirs from São Roque that reflect their experience of the region, some of which include:

  1. Wine bottles and souvenirs - Souvenir wine bottles and corkscrews are an excellent and practical option to bring home.
  2. Brazilian soap bars and oils - São Roque is known for its artisanal soap bars and organic oils made from local ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of São Roque

São Roque is home to a lively and diverse community of artists, musicians, and locals, which reflects the region’s cultural richness and diversity. Visitors must be respectful of the country’s cultural etiquettes, including greeting locals with a friendly “Ola” or “Bom Dia.” Visitors can also learn more about the history and traditions of the region by visiting local museums and engaging in cultural tours.

Best Time to Visit São Roque

The best time to visit São Roque is from April to September, as the weather is cooler and drier, with less rainfall. This period is also an excellent time for engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking, trekking, and wine tours.

Do’s and Don’ts of São Roque

Do:

  • Remember to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid sunburns and heat strokes.
  • Be respectful of the country’s culture and customs by engaging in cultural tours and learning more about the traditions and history of the region.
  • Bring cash as some places don’t accept debit or credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink tap water. It’s safer to drink bottled water or boiled water.
  • Don’t wander alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods, especially at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in São Roque

São Roque is a safe and traveler-friendly city, but visitors must be mindful of their surroundings and personal safety, especially at night or in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Avoid flashing valuable items in public spaces, and keep your belongings close.

Health in São Roque

Visitors must be careful with mosquito bites, especially during the rainy season, and take precautions to avoid contracting diseases such as dengue and zika. Visitors can carry mosquito repellent and use it regularly to avoid bites. Also, don’t forget to carry enough medication, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.

Getting to São Roque: Transportation Options and Logistics

São Roque is easily accessible by several transportation options, including buses, taxis, rental cars, and private transfer services. Below are the various transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near São Roque

The closest airport to São Roque is the São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), which is about 50km away from São Roque.

Bus Stations Near São Roque

The São Roque bus station is located in the city center and is accessible by several bus lines that connect to cities in São Paulo and other regions.

Other Options

Visitors can opt for rental cars or private transfer services to explore São Roque and its surrounding areas at their leisure.

How to Get Around in São Roque

São Roque is a small city, and travelers can easily explore it on foot or by bike. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, while rental cars and private transfer services are available for visitors.

Where to Go Next from São Roque: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors who have an interest in nearby destinations and excursions can visit the following places:

  1. Ibiúna - A beautiful and peaceful small town located just 20km from São Roque, giving visitors an opportunity to explore its serene lakes, waterfalls, and nature reserves.
  2. Pirapora do Bom Jesus - Just a short drive from São Roque, this is a famous religious destination known for its beautiful architecture, stunning views, and unique religious festivals.

Conclusion

São Roque’s beautiful natural, cultural, and historical landscapes offer visitors a unique experience of Brazil. From exploring colonial-era architecture and cultural landmarks to hiking, biking, and wine tours, there’s something for everyone in São Roque. With its stunning food and wine scene, authentic local products, and exciting outdoor adventures, São Roque is indeed a hidden gem in Brazil’s Southeast region and a must-visit destination for travelers looking for rich cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Central São Roque Central São Roque