Two Day Trips from Belo Horizonte
Exploring Ouro Preto and Inhotim
During my five weeks in Belo Horizonte, I took two unforgettable day trips that showcased the incredible diversity of Minas Gerais. One was to the historic colonial town of Ouro Preto, and the other to the sprawling botanical gardens and art galleries of Inhotim. Both were unique in their own ways and offered experiences I’ll never forget.
A Step Back in Time: Ouro Preto
On a sunny Sunday, I hopped on a modern, comfortable bus for the two-hour journey to Ouro Preto, a colonial gem nestled in the hills of Minas Gerais. The name Ouro Preto translates to “Black Gold,” a nod to the town’s history as a gold mining hub during Brazil’s colonial era. If you’re around my age, the name might even make you think of “Texas Tea” (cue the Beverly Hillbillies theme song).
Ouro Preto is a town of steep, cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and charming colonial architecture. It was once the capital of Minas Gerais before Belo Horizonte took over in the 1890s. Walking through its hilly streets felt like stepping back in time, with every corner revealing another picturesque view or historic building.
The food in Ouro Preto was as delightful as the scenery. I started my day with a classic Minas Gerais treat at Rena Café: pão de queijo (cheesy bread made with yuca flour) topped with local cheese and doce de leite. Paired with an espresso, it was the perfect way to fuel up for exploring. Later, I stopped in for lunch at Escadabaixo Cozinha Brasileira, where I enjoyed a refreshing pear lemonade and a dish of risotto with mushrooms, tomatoes, and more of the region’s famous cheese. The flavors of Minas Gerais truly shine in this town, and the shops selling cheese, doce de leite, and chocolate were hard to resist.
Ouro Preto’s charm lies not only in its history and food but also in its atmosphere. The steep hills, colorful colonial buildings, and friendly locals make it a place worth visiting. It’s a town that invites you to slow down, take in the views, and savor every moment.
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Art and Nature Combined: Inhotim
Just an hour and a half from Belo Horizonte lies Inhotim, a place that feels like a dream. Imagine nature trails winding through lush botanical gardens, with art galleries and installations scattered throughout. Add in cafes and a fantastic buffet restaurant, and you’ve got Inhotim—a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Brazil.
Inhotim is located where the Atlantic Forest meets the Cerrado, creating a stunning natural backdrop for its art and architecture. The gardens and trails alone were worth the visit, with vibrant flowers, towering trees, and serene water features at every turn. Walking through the grounds felt like a peaceful escape, with the added bonus of discovering art around every corner.
The galleries at Inhotim were the icing on an already delicious cake. While not every piece of art spoke to me, some were absolutely mesmerizing. The blend of contemporary art and natural beauty created a unique experience that was both thought-provoking and relaxing.
After hours of exploring, I stopped at the buffet restaurant for lunch, which was surprisingly good. It was the perfect way to recharge before heading back out to the trails. Inhotim is a place that invites you to wander, reflect, and simply enjoy the beauty around you.
Two Very Different Experiences
Ouro Preto and Inhotim couldn’t be more different, yet both offered something special. Ouro Preto was a journey into Brazil’s colonial past, with its historic streets and rich flavors. Inhotim, on the other hand, was a celebration of art and nature, a place to lose yourself in beauty and creativity.
If you’re in Belo Horizonte, I highly recommend taking the time to visit both. They’re perfect examples of the diversity and charm that Minas Gerais has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply someone who enjoys good food and beautiful scenery, these day trips are sure to leave a lasting impression.
View more of my Ouro Preto photos!