Vitória is one of the most wooded capitals, and part of the city’s green area are good parks that are well used by residents, and some of them are also included in the itinerary of those visiting our capital. One of these is the Fonte Grande Park.
>> Also discover the State Parks of Espírito Santo.
What sets it apart is its location at the top of the central massif of the island of Vitória. This provides an incredible view of the island and the region.
Right in the center of Vitória, equivalent to 218 football fields, is the largest area of Atlantic Forest remnants protected by law in an urban area in the country. It’s a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city.
At Parque da Fonte Grande, visitors have moments of well-being close to nature, whether contemplating the landscape from a viewpoint or taking one of the trails.
Even though it is located on rugged terrain, it also serves those who like a natural park, but don’t want to or can’t make much effort.
It has short, quiet trails in the middle of the Atlantic Forest that lead to viewpoints with sensational views. But if you like hiking on more difficult terrain, enjoying the views along the way, that’s also the case. And there are also viewpoints that you can reach without needing to hike.
The quietest trails start at park headquarters which despite being at a height of 300m, can be easily reached by car along a paved road of approximately 3km.
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| Mochuara Viewpoint. |
If you prefer, you can go up by bike or even on foot. Be that as it may, along the way the Mochuara viewpoint with a view that is worth stopping by.
The headquarters have bathrooms, a drinking fountain and parking. And there it works Environmental Education Center with information about the park, mainly about the fauna and flora.
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| Pedra da Batata Trail. |
Behind the headquarters, the Batata Stone Trail with 320m. A paved trail that is easy to follow through the forest, ending at the Sumaré Lookout.
It is one of the main ones built on the slope of the park with a wide and beautiful view of the mountainous region of the state and also of rivers, mangroves, natural and historical attractions in the metropolitan region.
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| Sumaré Lookout. |
In front of the headquarters begins Caracol Trail without paving, but easy. It passes through the forest, but it doesn’t take long to reach an open area from where it is possible to observe the extent of the park with rock vegetation, ancient trees, varied fauna, natural viewpoints, more difficult trails and water sources that give the park its name. This area should be explored with tour guides or environmental drivers.
Continuing along the trail you reach the communication towers placed there due to the height. Passing through them is the City Lookout from where you have a panoramic view facing another side of the city and coastline.
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| City Lookout. |
There is a path that connects the park headquarters to the city’s viewpoint without having to take the trail, but if you can, do it.
Visit Parque da Fonte Grande and if possible go during the week when it is almost empty. On weekends the number of visitors increases significantly.
Environmental Education Center (CEA)
It is possible to take a guided tour of the park. CEA develops interpretative trail activities where spaces are presented, promoting human/nature interaction and provoking questions.
This visit is available to schools, the community and also tourist groups. But to do this you need to make an appointment by calling (27) 3382-6576.
The emergence of Parque da Fonte Grande
Fonte Grande Park was created in 1986 to stop the deforestation and disorderly occupation that took place there, preventing tragedies. This is because the previous year a large block of rock slid down during heavy rain, killing 40 people in the Morro do Macaco community.
Parque da Fonte Grande is managed by Vitória City Hall, but is in an area that belongs to the State of Espírito Santo.
Schedule the visit
Access by car is via the Tião Sá guardhouse, via Rodovia Serafim Derenzi.
Access on foot can also be done through the guardhouse on Rua João Ferreira de Souza do Bairro Fradinhos.
Opening hours:
From Tuesday to Sunday, including holidays, from 8 am to 5 pm (up until 4:40 pm).
The Park has 24-hour security, parking, restrooms and a drinking fountain. THERE IS NO DINER.
COVID-19
During the Pandemic, operation is in accordance with the risk map informed by the State Government.
- During the visit:
- – Use of a mask during the entire period of stay in the park;
- – Use of individual water containers;
- – Maintain 1.5 meters of distance from other visitors and employees;
- – Do not visit the park in cases of flu symptoms or contact with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients until the quarantine period ends;
- – Have alcohol available for hand hygiene;
- – Avoid crowds at drinking fountains and toilets.
Telephone: (27) 3381-3521 and 3382-6576.
Tour Guide: Discover Espírito Santo with a guide. Make contact with me.
Accommodation: Make your reservations on Booking.com and travel with peace of mind.
Car rental: Are you going to rent a car? Get quotes from several companies on rentcars.com.
Airline ticket: You can buy it at Passagens Promo.
