Marliéria: Nature, Lagoons and Culture

Marliéria brings together distinctive natural features and its own cultural attractions and events. Parque Estadual do Rio Doce, Lagoa Dom Helvécio and the view from Pico do Jacroá offer different perspectives on the area: protected forest landscapes, water and scenic views. Other points of interest include the Nossa Senhora das Dores parish church, Mirante do Jacroá and the traditional Cavalgada. If you’re looking for a holiday rental in Marliéria, one question can help guide your choice: should the park’s nature, the water or the area’s cultural character be the focus of your trip?

Park Landscapes and Lagoons

Parque Estadual do Rio Doce was the first conservation unit established in the state of Minas Gerais. It is also considered the largest continuous area of protected Atlantic Forest in Minas Gerais; its territory extends into Marliéria as well. The first fact describes its place in the state’s conservation history, while the second refers to the size of the continuous forest area. This natural attraction therefore draws attention both to the park’s importance in Minas Gerais and to its connection with Marliéria.

From the summit of Pico do Jacroá, visitors can see about 40 lagoons within Parque Estadual do Rio Doce. The number is approximate, but gives a concrete sense of the view: visitors look out over numerous bodies of water in the park, not just a single lagoon. Lagoa Dom Helvécio, also known as Lagoa do Bispo, is 7 kilometers long and up to 40 meters deep. Its length and maximum depth describe different aspects of the same body of water and help convey its scale.

Visitors with a fishing license are permitted to fish for sport at Lagoa Dom Helvécio. They may use rowboats or boats with electric motors to help control exotic fish populations. The visitor rules explicitly link fishing to this management purpose. If you’re planning this activity, check the applicable regulations before your visit.

Cultural Attractions and Tradition

Igreja Matriz Nossa Senhora das Dores was inaugurated on October 5, 1961, by the Archbishop of Mariana, Dom Oscar de Oliveira. The precise date and the archbishop’s name place the parish church within a specific local history. For travelers interested in cultural attractions as well as nature, it adds a religious landmark to the themes of the park and lagoons.

Minas Gerais recognizes Mirante do Jacroá as a place of considerable cultural interest; this recognition was established by law on July 12, 2022. Alongside the natural attractions, it offers another perspective on Marliéria: Mirante do Jacroá also has officially recognized cultural significance.

Cavalgada de Marliéria is an annual traditional event. It includes a horseback parade, music and typical local cuisine, as well as a Marcha competition with various categories and cash prizes. The parade, music, food and competition offer a cultural focus distinct from exploring the park and lagoons. Individual editions may vary, so check the dates and program for the relevant event if you’re planning your stay around it.

Choose the Right Focus

When choosing a holiday rental in Marliéria, you can start with the kind of trip you have in mind. If you’re mainly interested in nature, the park, lagoons and views from Pico offer specific themes for your plans. If cultural attractions are more important, you can include the parish church, Mirante and Cavalgada. Then compare specific accommodations with your own plans. That way, your search reflects the vacation you’re planning, rather than a generic idea of the area.

Explore More Destinations

Explore more destinations: Curvelo, São Sebastião Do Rio Verde, Guaxupé, Itanhandu, Santana de Pirapama, Patos De Minas, João Pinheiro, Coronel Fabriciano.

For the overview of the wider region: Minas Gerais.