A Journey Through Time: The Train to Morretes

As the first light of dawn crept over the horizon, I found myself standing at the train station, a place that has always held a special allure for me. The anticipation of a journey, the promise of new landscapes unfolding before my eyes, and the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks—these are the things that make train travel so enchanting. This time, my destination was Morretes, a charming town nestled in the heart of Brazil, accessible by the historic Paranaguá-Curitiba Railway.

The train, a relic of the 19th century, seemed to whisper stories of its past as I boarded. I imagined Princess Isabel herself, who had once graced this very route in 1884, gazing out at the same lush valleys and towering viaducts. The journey promised a tapestry of natural beauty, with over 41 bridges and 13 tunnels, each a testament to the engineering marvels of a bygone era. As we chugged along, the guide’s voice, though a bit hurried, painted vivid pictures of the landscapes we traversed, from the verdant mountains to the cascading waterfalls.

Discovering Morretes: A Step Back in Time

Upon arrival in Morretes, I was greeted by a tableau of colonial architecture, each building a piece of history preserved in time. The town’s cobblestone streets led me to quaint shops and bustling markets, where the air was filled with the scent of local delicacies. I indulged in the traditional Barreado, a dish that speaks of the region’s culinary heritage, its flavors as rich and layered as the history of the town itself.

The freedom to explore at my own pace was a gift. I wandered through the craft markets, where artisans displayed their wares, each piece telling a story of its own. The churches, with their weathered facades, stood as silent witnesses to centuries of devotion and community. It was easy to lose oneself in the charm of Morretes, a place where time seemed to slow, allowing for reflection and appreciation of the simple joys of life.

The Return: A Scenic Farewell

As the day drew to a close, I found myself reluctant to leave. The return journey along the Estrada da Graciosa was a fitting farewell, the road winding through lush landscapes that seemed to bid us adieu with every turn. The van ride back to Curitiba offered a different perspective, a chance to see the beauty of Brazil from a new angle.

Reflecting on the day’s adventure, I was reminded of the timeless allure of train travel. Despite the minor hiccups in coordination, the experience was a reminder of why I cherish these journeys. They offer a chance to step back in time, to connect with the past, and to savor the present. For those who, like me, find joy in the romance of the rails, the trip to Morretes is a journey worth taking. Scenic Train Ride