The 5 Most Amazing Peaks around Cunha

The region around Cunha, nestled in the Serra da Bocaina mountain range, offers several impressive peaks. Pedra da Macela stands out as the highest point in the immediate area, offering incredible 360-degree panoramic views. Other popular spots include the Rest and picnic area. Top of Serra da Labruja, known for its magnificent landscape, and Corno de Bico Summit (883 m), located within a protected landscape area.

From the summit of Pedra da Macela, which stands at approximately 1,840 meters, you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views on clear days. These vistas encompass the Serra do Mar mountain range, the Bay of Paraty, parts of Angra dos Reis, and Ilha Grande in Rio de Janeiro, as well as the Paraíba Valley in São Paulo.

The trail to Pedra da Macela is about 2 kilometers long and is mostly paved, though it is steep. It's considered of moderate difficulty due to the incline, requiring good physical preparation. The ascent typically takes about an hour.

Yes, within the wider Serra da Bocaina National Park, Pico do Tira Chapéu is a notable peak at 2,088 meters, making it one of the ten highest points in São Paulo state. It also offers 360-degree views stretching from the Mantiqueira Mountains to the coast. However, it's accessed from São José do Barreiro, not directly from Cunha.

Along trails like the one to Pedra da Macela, you can appreciate typical Atlantic Forest vegetation, including Araucaria trees, Spanish moss, and the macela flower, which gives the peak its name. These yellow macela flowers are particularly vibrant between March and May. The Corno de Bico Summit (883 m) area also features well-preserved oak woodlands and diverse flora and fauna.

Access to the Pedra da Macela trail is located at km 65 or 66 of the Cunha-Paraty highway (SP-171). After a 5-kilometer drive on a gravel road, you reach a gate, marking the start of the walk. Visitation is restricted to Fridays through Sundays from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM, weather permitting. There is a guardhouse at the entrance with a dry toilet, drinking fountains, and free parking.

Beyond hiking to the peaks, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore MTB trails, with options ranging from moderate to difficult. There are also numerous road cycling routes and easy hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. In certain periods, Pedra da Macela is also used by hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts.

While some peaks require moderate effort, there are easy day hikes available in the Cunha mountain region that could be suitable for families. For example, trails like the Traves Mill loop or the Covas Leisure Area loop offer shorter distances and easier difficulty grades.

Visitors frequently highlight the magnificent landscapes and beautiful views from the summits. The Rest and picnic area. Top of Serra da Labruja is particularly appreciated by pilgrims for its resting facilities and scenic outlook. The clear views from peaks like Salgosa Summit (553 m) are also a major draw.

At the entrance to the Pedra da Macela trail, there is a guardhouse that offers a dry toilet and drinking fountains. Free parking is also available there. For other trails, it's advisable to check specific route details, but some popular spots like the Rest and picnic area. Top of Serra da Labruja are designed for visitor convenience.

The Corno de Bico Summit (883 m) is situated within a Protected Landscape Area, which is renowned for its ecological significance. This area features forests, pastures, and well-preserved oak woodlands, providing a habitat for diverse native and European flora and fauna, including species like the Iberian wolf, Pyrenean desman, European otter, and wild boar.