Sete Lagoas welcomed me with shimmering lakes, friendly people, and a mix of urban comfort and natural beauty. From peaceful waters to mysterious caves, the city offered me the best of Minas Gerais in a calm and inviting atmosphere.
Arriving in the city of seven lakes
Located about 70 kilometers from Belo Horizonte, Sete Lagoas gets its name from the seven natural lakes that surround it. As I entered the city, I immediately felt the laid-back pace typical of Minas Gerais. The skyline is framed by soft hills, and the reflection of the sun on the water gives everything a golden hue. It’s the kind of place where nature and city life coexist naturally.
The charm of the lakes
The heart of Sete Lagoas beats around its lakes. Lagoa Paulino, the most famous one, is where locals gather for walks, boat rides, or just to sit on a bench and enjoy the view. I walked along its edge one afternoon, stopping for an ice cream while watching kids play and fishermen waiting patiently. The Lagoa da Boa Vista and Lagoa José Felix are also worth visiting, especially at sunset, when the light turns the water into a mirror of colors.
Exploring Gruta Rei do Mato
Just a few minutes from the city center lies one of Sete Lagoas’ greatest treasures: Gruta Rei do Mato, a stunning limestone cave filled with rock formations that look like works of art. I joined a guided tour and walked through illuminated chambers where stalactites and stalagmites have been growing for thousands of years. The air inside was cool and humid, and each turn revealed a new wonder of nature. It’s one of those places that make you realize how much beauty lies hidden beneath the surface.
The people and flavors of Minas
Sete Lagoas has the unmistakable hospitality of Minas Gerais. At lunchtime, I stopped at a small restaurant serving traditional food: rice, beans, pork crackling, kale, and, of course, a slice of cheese with guava paste for dessert. The owner sat down to chat and told me how the city had grown while keeping its small-town warmth. Later, I explored the local market, where vendors offered sweets, cachaça, and handmade crafts. Every conversation was easy, every smile genuine.
Culture and local life
Beyond its nature, Sete Lagoas has an active cultural life. I visited the Casa da Cultura, where exhibitions and local art shows bring together artists from across the region. In the evening, I headed to the city’s bars and found live music—samba, forró, and rock all blending in a relaxed, joyful mood. Life here seems to move at its own rhythm, and people know how to enjoy every moment.
Conclusion
Sete Lagoas is a destination that perfectly captures the essence of Minas Gerais: calm, welcoming, and surrounded by nature. Between its lakes, caves, and kind people, I found a city that doesn’t rush to impress but leaves a lasting impression. It’s the kind of place that reminds you that beauty often hides in simplicity.