After spending over two weeks along the Brazilian coastline, my next destination was Minas Gerais! A seven hour bumpy journey, on an overnight bus through VERY windy uphill roads took me to my first stop-the colonial town of Ouro Preto.Situated high in the mountains, the early morning arrival here was something spectacular.As the sun began to wake up I was given my first glimpse of this vast mountain range which had been hidden by thick morning dew and clouds.
Famous for its mining, array of churches and regional cuisine, Ouro Preto was full of colonial history. Taking on the steep cobblestoned streets of the town proved to be very difficult! Non slip shoes are a must...something I should have considered, especially as it rained! Sampling the food here only proved the guidebooks right....it was delicious and some of the best I've had since arriving in Brazil! Next on my to do list was something cultural...bad idea! I decided to go into Escolas de Minas, if I'd have known I wouldnt have been allowed out, I would never have gone in! An interesting museum to start with but then got a bit on the boring side at which point I thought id leave, except the man on reception had other ideas! Every time I tried to go he told me I hadnt seen everything and took me back in!
I took a ride on the Maria Fumaca steam train (the steam part was being restored at the time though so it was just a train!) The views of the valley were stunning and it was definitely worth taking the panoramic carriage.
Whilst in Minas Gerais I also visited the sleepy village of Tiradentes, a small place with cobbled streets and horse drawn carts. There wasn't much to do here apart from take in the picturesque scenes and take life at an easy pace.
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