The Serra district, with nearly 60,000 inhabitants, enchants with the characteristics of an inner city and its receptivity
By Patricia Battestin
Surely you have heard of the quindins of Nova Almeida. But the place goes way beyond tasty treats. The district of the municipality of Serra, located about 40 kilometers from Vitória, brings together natural beauty, history, leisure and a welcoming community.
The locality is one of the oldest in Brazil. Founded by Jesuits in the 16th century, it was once a village, a neighborhood and the seat of Fundão and even an independent municipality. Today it belongs to the Serra, has established itself as one of the most popular resorts in Espírito Santo and maintains fishing as one of its characteristics.
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We have selected some of the highlights of the charming village to enchant you as thousands of visitors do each year. A place with all the structure of a big city, but always with a hint of the countryside, which keeps fishing as one of its characteristics.
Beach
Nova Almeida has beaches with shallow and warm waters, with reefs that form natural pools at low tide. Ideal for a relaxing family outing. In the section near the meeting between the river and the sea, it is possible to enjoy a beautiful structured shore, with a promenade for walking, a cycle path and a lawn with trees for a moment of contemplation and rest.
cliffs
Do you know this deserted beach, without a structure of bars and restaurants, which gives the impression of being “a place free of all men”? Now imagine if this paradise is accompanied by towering red walls. This is exactly what you find in Praia das Falésias or Falésias de Nova Almeida. With 20 meters in height, the cliffs are practically next to ES-010 and are considered one of the natural beauties of the state. The area is also popular with paragliders as it benefits from favorable tilt and wind conditions.
Reis Magos Church
Listed by the Instituto do Patrimônio Histórico e Artístico Nacional (Iphan), the Reis Magos Church and Residence was founded by the Jesuits in 1580. In the center of the altar is a work by the painter Friar Belchior Paulo, depicting the adoration of the Magi. The painting is considered one of the first oil paintings in Brazil. The church receives around 25,000 visitors each year. Set on top of a hill, 40 meters high, it offers an enchanting panoramic view.
Where to eat
Quindim Nova Almeida
It is impossible to talk about Nova Almeida without remembering the sweets that have become symbols of the region. The delicacy has been sold there for more than 70 years. With daily production, in summer more than 400 units are sold per day. The candy generates loyal customers and has already been acclaimed by tourists from several Brazilian, North American, European, Canadian states… And normally, if you eat one, you will want more.
Service: Avenida Doutor Milton David, 920 – Nova Almeida Centro, Serra – ES. Telephone: (27) 3253-0667. Instagram: @tradicionalquindimnovaalmeida
Roxinha’s Nest
Famous for the Leitão in Pururuca, the restaurant offers a varied menu with different dishes, from snacks, such as the Ostrich in Iscas or the Frog in Walleye, to main dishes. The house is in a green area of 40,000 square meters, with stunning views of the bay of Nova Almeida and Praia Grande.
Service: Rua do Limão, 350 – Nova Almeida, Serra – ES. Telephone: (27) 3253-1516. Instagram: @ninhodaroxinha
Where to stay
Praia Sol Hotel
The hotel faces the sea and offers leisure facilities with a swimming pool and water slides. Rates include breakfast and parking. The property is close to restaurants, bars and area tourist attractions.
Service: Rua Eudólio Cruz, 01 – Nova Almeida, Serra – ES. Phone: (27) 3253-1621
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