The history of the Estrada Real is intimately linked to Brazil’s tumultuous 18th century, when gold, diamonds and many types of gemstones were found in Minas Gerais. A rush to the interior followed and the fight for control of the riches between colonists and the Portuguese crown led to a failed independence movement.

First there was the “old road” hacked by explorers from lovely Paraty - where the rainforest rolls down the Bocaina range - to Vila Rica (now Ouro Preto). But it took 3 months to follow the meandering path over steep mountain ranges and through thick rainforests. Robbers waited along the trail and pirates hid in the island studded Bay of Angra.

A “new road” starting in Rio de Janeiro was faster for the “tropeiros” with their mule trains and offered more control and protection. Soon simple settlements and isolated farms along the route became rich towns and, in 1763, Rio de Janeiro replaced Salvador as the capital of Brazil.

An extension of the road to faraway Diamantina, with its superb setting on the Espinhaço Range overlooking the Jequitinhonha valley, was prompted by a diamond find.

The old cobblestone and dirt paths of the Estrada Real can still be followed and take you into the past of old towns, gold-leaved churches, beautiful art, great houses and estates. Discover the pageants like “congadas” or listen to serenades or to stories about rebel leader Tiradentes, slave-mistress Xicá da Silva or crippled artist Alejadinho. Relive the adventure of the tropeiros in the many natural parks on the route. And, you will eat very well on your way … Minas is also home to a rich cooking tradition and produces top coffees, good cheese and specialty cachaças.

The Estrada Real can be visited in many ways. You can decide to explore only selected parts or make it a full holiday. You can rent a car or go by bus, but you can also do parts on foot, on a horse or a bike. Start or end your trip in the marvelous city of Rio de Janeiro, which manages to combine the delights of a big city with breathtaking nature and all the adventure from surfing to rockclimbing. From Rio follow the Green Coast to historic Parati and relax at beach coves or at tropical Ilha Grande (once a hangout for pirates), where you can only get around on foot or by boat.