Introduction
You know those places that you discover by chance and then want to tell everyone about? Major Gercino is exactly like that. A charming little town, surrounded by vineyards, waterfalls and landscapes that look like they came out of a movie. But the best part is that it still has that country feel, of tranquility and warmth that we always look for on vacation or a different weekend.
If you've never heard of Major Gercino, now is the time to get to know it. And if you have, here's a special invitation: come see for yourself what makes this city a true hidden treasure of Santa Catarina.
In this post, we want to show you why Major Gercino deserves to be on your list of must-see places. We will talk about the rural traditions, culture, unique flavors, nature and stories that make this municipality an increasingly charming tourist destination.
A little piece of the countryside with colonial flavor and soul
Major Gercino is a rural town in the state of Santa Catarina, but it could easily be the setting for a period drama. This is because, in addition to its landscape full of greenery, mountains and rivers, the town is also strongly influenced by European traditions, especially German and Italian immigration, which shaped the region's customs, architecture and even its flavors.
One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive is that Major Gercino exudes authenticity. There are no crowded tourist attractions or long lines. Here, the experience is intimate, welcoming and, above all, authentic. The locals proudly preserve their roots and make a point of sharing every bit of their culture with visitors.
The vineyards that color the horizon
If there's one thing that immediately catches your eye in Major Gercino, it's the vineyards. Spread across various parts of the municipality, they transform the landscape into a sea of greenery and grapes during the harvest season. Every year, around 1,000 tons of grapes are harvested, and a large part of them are used in the production of colonial wine.
Unlike commercial wines from large wineries, Major Gercino's colonial wine is made with love, by families who have kept this tradition alive for generations. It is the kind of wine that accompanies Sunday meals, that is present at family parties and that carries stories in every sip.
Some properties offer guided tours, where you can see the vineyards, learn about the artisanal production process and, of course, enjoy a special tasting. You can't leave without taking a bottle (or a few) home with you.
Artisanal colonial cheese: a flavor that wins you over
And since we’re talking about flavors, we can’t forget the famous Queijos Coloniais Diamante, a true gem of local gastronomy. Handcrafted in the Diamante community, this cheese is much more than just a snack: it’s a true journey through the region’s history and traditions. Made with fresh milk from Jersey cows, famous for its creaminess, the cheese only contains salt and coagulant – simple and authentic, like everything else here. Hand-molded with fabrics and cedar wood molds, it undergoes natural maturation, resting for up to 40 days on shelves made of native wood. The result? A cheese with a yellow rind, soft texture, mild flavor with an almond touch and naturally occurring holes, making each slice even more special.
In addition to being delicious, each piece of Diamante Cheese bears the effort of families who keep alive a tradition inherited from European immigrants – Germans, Italians, Ukrainians, Poles and Portuguese-Brazilians. Production varies between 4 and 25 kilos per day, so it is truly exclusive! Buying directly from the producers is more than a gastronomic experience: it is a gesture of cultural appreciation. If you are looking for authentic and flavorful experiences on your travels, including a stop to learn about and taste this cheese is practically a must. Prepare to fall in love — and take at least one piece in your suitcase!
The strength of agriculture and rural families
Major Gercino is, above all, an agricultural city. There are 590 rural properties spread across its landscapes, where corn, cassava, vegetables and fruits are grown, in addition to raising animals.
This diversity is the result of the dedicated work of families who live off the land and preserve the rural way of life with great pride. When you visit the city, you will notice how everything revolves around nature and agriculture: the events, the fairs, the conversations on the balconies and even the smell of the air.
Boiteuxburgo: time that stopped (and enchants)
Now, let's travel back in time. Literally.
The Boiteuxburgo region, within Major Gercino, is like an open-air museum. Founded in 1870, it was one of the most important federal colonial centers in the region. During the 1920s, it came to house around 4,000 residents, being an important center for European immigration in southern Brazil.
Today, Boiteuxburgo has only 200 inhabitants, but it has preserved much of its history: old wooden houses, churches, windmills and an air of nostalgia that charms those who pass by. It is impossible not to imagine what life was like back then when walking through these quiet streets.
Visiting Boiteuxburgo is a true journey into the past – and, at the same time, a living reminder of the strength and identity of Major Gercino.
Nature in its purest form: waterfalls and rivers
Those who love nature, trails and waterfalls will fall in love with Major Gercino. The town is an invitation to contemplation, with breathtaking landscapes, lots of greenery and crystal clear waters everywhere.
The Tijucas River is the region's great companion, winding through neighborhoods and accompanying visitors with its relaxing sound. And it is precisely along this river that some of the city's most beautiful natural attractions are located.
One of them is the Garlic Waterfall, located just 10km from the city center. The trail to it is easy, accessible, and the view is worth any effort. The waterfall is perfect for a refreshing dip or just to sit and let your mind rest.
In addition to this, there are several other waterfalls, trails and natural bathing spots that are worth exploring. And the best part: there are no crowds. You can have unique moments of peace and connection with nature.
Welcoming tourism: where to stay, what to eat, what to see
Major Gercino may be small, but it knows how to welcome guests. The accommodation chain is simple but charming – with family-run guesthouses, tourist sites and rural accommodations that offer warm hospitality. Many of them even serve breakfast with homemade products made on the property itself. Check it out HERE!
When it’s time to eat, prepare yourself for heart-warming dishes. The local cuisine mixes traditional European recipes with regional ingredients. You’ll find plenty of homemade bread, sausage, polenta, pasta, as well as the cheeses and wines we’ve already mentioned. Check it out HERE!
And what to see? In addition to Boiteuxburgo, the vineyards and the waterfalls, the city is also home to historic churches and the tranquility typical of those who live well, slowly and with purpose. Check it out HERE!
Conclusion
Major Gercino is more than a tourist destination. It's an experience.
It's the place where you wake up to the sound of birdsong, drink coffee with freshly baked bread and listen to old stories told on a park bench. It's where you reconnect with nature, be enchanted by culture and discover that happiness can often be found in the simplest of places.
If you are looking for a refuge from the hustle and bustle, a destination full of soul, authentic flavors and inspiring landscapes, don't think twice: Major Gercino awaits you with open arms.
And you know what's best? It's a destination that fits into any itinerary – whether it's for a weekend getaway or to spend several days relaxing, exploring and enjoying everything the city has to offer.
Now that you know what Major Gercino is, how about starting to plan your visit? We guarantee: it will be one of those trips you will want to repeat – and tell everyone about, like a good friend who only shares the best tips!
