Tag Archives: Blumenau

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Meet the Founder: Who Was Hermann Blumenau?

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Blumenau, Brazil’s most iconic German heritage city, was founded in 1850 by a young pharmacist from Germany — Dr. Hermann Blumenau. But who was he, and why did he travel across the Atlantic to create a new colony?

🇩🇪 From Germany to Brazil

Born in 1819 in Hasselfelde, Germany, Hermann Blumenau studied chemistry and pharmacy in Erlangen and Berlin. Inspired by the dream of creating a German colony, he first arrived in Brazil in 1846. After scouting the Itajaí Valley, he returned to Germany to gather support and later returned with 17 settlers in 1850.

🏞️ Founding the Colony

On September 2, 1850, Blumenau officially founded the colony that now bears his name. With a focus on education, community, and cultural heritage, the settlement grew steadily along the banks of the Itajaí-Açu River.

📚 A Man of Science and Vision

Dr. Blumenau promoted education and science. He founded the city’s first school and wrote extensively about his experiences in Brazil. His work helped attract new settlers and contributed to the development of Santa Catarina.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Legacy Today

  • The main road, Rua Dr. Blumenau, honors his name
  • A statue of Hermann Blumenau stands in front of the Museu da Família Colonial
  • The Hermann Blumenau Foundation preserves his letters and artifacts
  • His birthday, December 26, is still commemorated locally

🏛️ Where to Learn More

Museu da Família Colonial
Located on Alameda Duque de Caxias, this museum houses Blumenau’s former home and early settler artifacts.
🔗 TripAdvisor

Arquivo Histórico José Ferreira da Silva
Home to documents, photos, and maps from the city’s early years.
🔗 blumenau.sc.gov.br

🌍 Final Thought

Hermann Blumenau’s vision created more than a colony — it laid the foundation for a proud, multicultural city that continues to celebrate its roots.

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What to Eat in Blumenau: 7 Must-Try Dishes

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Blumenau’s German heritage goes far beyond architecture and beer — it’s baked, roasted, and stewed into every bite. Whether you’re attending Oktoberfest or exploring the city year-round, here are 7 must-try dishes and where to find them today.

🍖 1. Eisbein (Joelho de Porco)

Crispy, slow-roasted pork knuckle with crackling skin — served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes.
📍 Where to try it: Bier Vila at Parque Vila Germânica

🥔 2. Batata Recheada

Blumenau-style stuffed baked potatoes come overloaded with bacon, cheese, chicken, or sausage.
📍 Where to try it: Alemão Batata Choperia (inside Vila Germânica)

🥩 3. Schlachtplatte (Meat Platter)

A hearty platter of Kassler (smoked pork), German sausages, and sides like mashed potatoes and sauerkraut.
📍 Where to try it: Bier Vila

🦆 4. Marreco Recheado (Stuffed Duck)

A rich southern German dish featuring duck stuffed with dried fruit and spices, served with red cabbage and mashed potatoes.
📍 Where to try it: Senac Blumengarten or Bier Vila

🥓 5. Kassler (Smoked Pork Chop)

Salt-cured and lightly smoked pork loin, usually grilled and served with sauerkraut.
📍 Where to try it: Thursday buffet at Senac Blumengarten

🥩 6. Hackepeter (Steak Tartar)

Seasoned raw beef with onions and egg yolk, served on toast — for the adventurous foodie.
📍 Where to try it: Oktoberfest menu at Bier Vila or restaurants during festival season

🍝 7. Spätzle com Goulash

Soft egg noodles served with hearty beef goulash, topped with herbs and gravy.
📍 Where to try it: Bier Vila

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Day Trips from Blumenau: Hidden Gems in Santa Catarina

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Blumenau is perfectly positioned for quick day trips across the Vale Europeu—charming towns, nature, and cultural stops are all within about a 90-minute drive. Here are six easy, high-reward ideas, with official links you can verify later.

1) Pomerode — Brazil’s “Most German” Town (≈30 min)

Pomerode is the classic day trip from Blumenau: enxaimel houses, cultural museums, and family-friendly attractions.

Highlights

  • Rota do Enxaimel (timber-frame houses route)
  • Casa do Imigrante Carl Weege (museum)
  • Zoo Pomerode (biopark)
  • Seasonal festivals (Osterfest, etc.)

Official links

2) Ilhota — Outlet Shopping (≈40 min)

Ilhota is well-known regionally for factory-store shopping (especially fashion and beachwear). It’s an easy half-day trip with lunch.

Official links

3) Gaspar — Water Fun & River Valley Views (≈25 min)

Gaspar is the go-to “swimsuit day trip” in summer, with multiple water parks and easy access from Blumenau.

Highlights

  • Parque Aquático Cascata Carolina (water park + nature vibe)

Official links

4) Nova Trento — Faith, Italian Roots & Scenic Hills (≈90 min)

Nova Trento is one of Brazil’s best-known pilgrimage destinations, with a beautiful sanctuary complex in a peaceful setting.

Highlights

  • Santuário Santa Paulina (major pilgrimage site)

Official links

5) Timbó — Parks, Trails & “Slow” Nature Time (≈35 min)

Timbó is my pick when someone wants fresh air, an easy walk, and a picnic-friendly afternoon.

Highlights

  • Parque de Exposição / Jardim Botânico Franz Damm (city’s best-known green space)
  • Parque de Eventos Henry Paul (major events + leisure area)

Official links

6) Brusque — Outlet Shopping & Local History (≈60 min)

Brusque is a shopper’s day trip with serious scale—great if you want a full day of browsing with optional culture on the side.

Highlights

  • FIP Feira da Moda
  • Stop Shop (Ninho da Moda)
  • Museu Arquidiocesano Dom Joaquim (Azambuja)

Official links

Tips for Easy Exploration

  • Rent a car—public transport between towns is limited.
  • Visit shopping towns on weekdays to avoid crowds.
  • Keep a little cash as backup (parking/small vendors), even though cards are common.
  • Leave some buffer time—October and holiday weekends can add traffic.
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3 Days in Blumenau: The Ultimate Itinerary

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Welcome to Blumenau! This charming city in southern Brazil offers a unique blend of German heritage, delicious food, craft beer, and postcard-perfect architecture. Whether you’re visiting during Oktoberfest or just want a relaxing escape, this 3-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time.

Day 1: Dive into the Heart of the City

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Confeitaria Benkendorf, an iconic bakery known for traditional German pastries and strong coffee.
  • Visit the Beer Museum (Museu da Cerveja) for a fun and informative introduction to the city’s brewing culture.
  • Stroll down Rua XV de Novembro, Blumenau’s main street, admiring the half-timbered German-style architecture and taking photos at Castelinho da Havan.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at the Restaurante Senac (new location), offering authentic German cuisine.
  • Explore the Museu da Família Colonial to learn about Blumenau’s colonial history.
  • Walk through Vila Germânica Park, the central hub of Oktoberfest festivities and local crafts.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Bier Vila, known for great craft beers and hearty dishes.
  • Enjoy live music at The Basement English Pub, a popular venue for nightlife.

Day 2: Culture, Shopping, and Views

Morning:

  • Visit the Museu de Hábitos e Costumes, a fascinating cultural museum with exhibits of daily life from the past century.
  • Tour the stunning Catedral São Paulo Apóstolo, known for its modernist architecture and peaceful gardens.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties (recommendation: try local sausages or fish dishes).
  • Take a ride on the Blumenau Funicular (Elevador Castelo) for panoramic views of the city.
  • Shop for souvenirs at artisan stores in Vila Germânica or specialty German import shops.

Evening:

  • Dine at Wunderwald, a cozy Alpine-style restaurant serving authentic German dishes.
  • Take a peaceful night walk along the Beira-Rio promenade, enjoying river views and city lights.

Day 3: Local Flavors and Nearby Nature

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Lecker Haus, a charming bakery famous for German cakes and pastries.
  • Visit Glaspark Blumenau, a glassblowing studio where artisans create beautiful handmade pieces.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Alles Blau, a stylish microbrewery and gastropub.
  • Relax at Parque Ramiro Ruediger, a popular urban park with green spaces and trails.
  • Optionally hike at Parque Spitzkopf for stunning views and nature immersion.

Evening:

  • Conclude your trip with dinner and drinks at Factory Coffee Bar & Biergarten, a great spot for craft beers and gourmet burgers.

Bonus Tips

  • Currency: Brazilian Reais are used. Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Language: Portuguese is spoken; some signs and menus are also in German or English.
  • Best Time to Visit: September to November (spring and Oktoberfest season) or December for Christmas festivities.
  • For more info and updates, check the Blumenau Tourist Portal.