Summit square
Bay views.
Romerito Pontes from São Carlos — CC BY 2.0 · Mepoto — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Ajmcbarreto — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Mepoto — CC BY-SA 4.0
Penha Convent is a historic religious house perched on a high hill in Vila Velha, across the water from Vitória island, founded by the friar Pedro Palácios around 1558, making it one of Brazil's oldest landmarks. Pilgrims come every year for the Festa da Penha, and others come for walks in the forest around the hill and for the view from the top. From the convent square you see Vitória island, Vila Velha and their bay, and the beach of Praia da Costa, among the finest views in Espírito Santo. Visitors climb on foot, by minibuses running throughout opening hours, or by a small tourist train at weekends. Entry is free. The gate opens Monday to Saturday 6:00-16:45 and from 4:00 on Sundays, minibuses cost R$7 return (R$5 one way) and the tourist train R$20. Private cars may drive up on weekdays only. Respect the religious character of the site in dress and noise.
Bay views.
On foot or by minibus.
A shady walk.
Top of Penha hill, Vila Velha, across from Vitória, Espírito Santo
On foot, by minibus for R$7 return, or by the weekend tourist train for R$20; private cars on weekdays only.