Black Lake Park is a great spot to spend a few hours contemplating nature without leaving town. Rent a boat from the lakeside boathouse to admire the reflection of the beautiful trees on the dark green waters of the lake. Choose from fun options including paddleboats in the form of swans and miniature sailing boats complete with masts and flags. Life jackets are available in adult and children’s sizes.
Walk the trails that wind past the abundant plants and flowers. Bright azaleas bloom in winter and delicate blue hydrangeas fill the park in summer, so a visit at any time of year is sure to be worthwhile. Look for a small grotto adorned with flowers and dedicated to the Virgin Mary that serves as a good example of a typical Brazilian Catholic shrine.
The park and man-made lake were created in 1953 after a fire burned down a section of the original forest. See the pine trees that Leopoldo Rosenfeldt, a local man with German heritage, brought from the Black Forest in Germany and planted around the water’s edge, resulting in the park’s name.
Get a better view of the lake by purchasing a ticket to the German-style lookout tower that is served by a convenient lift. Plan your day so you can enjoy lunch or light refreshments at the park’s restaurant.
Try some of the famous Gramado chocolate and purchase extra to take home. Find hand-made souvenirs in the handicraft stalls located in the park where you can also buy items such as hats and warm clothes if the weather is not what you were expecting.
Entrance to the park is free. Avoid the crowds by visiting on a weekday. Black Lake Park is about 1 mile (2 kilometers) from the town center and can be reached on foot or by taxi or local bus. The area around the park is also a convenient place to stay in one of the many charming historic hotels.
