Canela (literally "cinnamon", pronounced cah-NEL-ah) is nestled in the heart of the Hydrangea Flower Region of the Gaucho Highlands. At an altitude of 2,746 feet, you'll occasionally see snow in this tourist city.

Canela's natural wonders include waterfalls and thick subtropical forests and valleys. Tourist destinations include the Cascata do Caracol (Snail Waterfall), the Valleys of Quilombo and the Ferradura Park (Horseshoe Park so named because of the horseshoe shape of the river that cuts through this reserve).

In the center of the city, you'll find the stone cathedral "Our Lady of Lourdes" which is one of the most popular tourist sites in Canela. It is here that the city kicks off the Christmas season each year with musical performances and fireworks.

If you're an eco-tourist at heart, try rafting on the Paranhana River, hiking in the Paranhana Valley, horseback riding or even hang gliding. These an other eco-friendly options abound in Canela.