Pedra Afiada

Location: Refugio Ecologico Pedra Afiada is located at the border between two national parks in the south of Brazil. Located at the foot of the gigantic Malacara canyon, the inn overlooks the abyss. 

How to get here: Fly to Florianopolis (FLN) or Porto Alegre (POS) and take a road transfer of around 3-4 hours to the chalets.

Structure: There are 19 units, with 8 apartments and one suite located in the main office, 5 located in the Jaguarundi house (80 meters away from the main house) and 5 cabanas scattered in the garden. Daily maid service is included. All apartments in the main building and the cabins have private bathroom with hot shower, balcony with hammock, ceiling fan, split air conditioning, charming and cheerful decoration, each receiving the name of a canyon, bird or a local beautiful place. Some of the units have jacuzzi. Casarão is another large 5-bedroom house with fantastic views to the Malacara canyon – a perfect choice for large families and groups of friends. 100 meters away, connected with a beautiful illuminated trail, there is a dining space.

Why staying here: Absolutely stunning place for couples on honeymoon, families and active travelers.  The canyons are spectacular and one needs to stay at least one week to enjoy and experience this place. Hike in the canyons with a guide or take a light walks along the edge. The most visited canyon in the region is Itaimbezinho. It has the steepest walls and impressive depth: up to 720m and at time 2 km distance between its walls. It has two gigantic waterfalls, the Andorinhas and the Véu da Noiva. Rio do Boi Trail is a great hike inside of the canyon. Fortaleza Canyon is another impressive place in the area. There are a few waterfalls here too and many trails one can do from different angles. Malacara Canyon  is visible from the hotel, is also very beautiful. It is worth taking the Poço do Malacara Trail, inside the canyon, between its walls. You can take a relaxing bath in crystal clear waters at the end of the trail, and also observe the transition between the Atlantic Forest and the Nebular Forest.