monument · Alfredo Chaves, ES
Túnel Encantado
An arched stone gallery built in the early 20th century near the Matilde station to divert a stream that flowed over the railroad tracks. The crossing, dark and damp, has 65 stone steps.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Túnel Encantado
The Túnel Encantado ("enchanted tunnel") is an arched stone gallery hidden in the forest of the district of Matilde, in Alfredo Chaves, in the Espírito Santo mountains. It is about 400 meters from the Estação Ferroviária de Matilde, beneath the railroad tracks.
It was built in the early 20th century so that the stream coming down the slope would flow through the gallery instead of over the tracks. That is why water runs through the tunnel all the time, down a staircase of 65 stone steps.
The fun of the outing is crossing the tunnel up or down these steps with the water splashing around your shins. Inside it is dark and damp, with bats on the walls. At the exit, the stream forms small falls and pools surrounded by forest.
It is an adventure outing, not recommended for people with limited mobility or a fear of dark, enclosed spaces. The rocks are slippery, so take it slow, preferably with someone who knows the way.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Set aside 1 to 2 hours, counting the walk from the station and the tunnel crossing.
Best time
In the morning, on dry days with no recent rain, when the water in the tunnel is lower and the trail less slippery.
How to get there
Access is from the Estação Ferroviária de Matilde, in the district of Matilde, in Alfredo Chaves (ES). From the station, walk about 400 meters along the railroad tracks and then down a short forest trail to the mouth of the tunnel.
Tip
Bring a flashlight and wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet; the stone steps are smooth and there is no light inside the gallery.
A look at the place
Túnel Encantado in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Túnel Encantado
How many steps does the Túnel Encantado have?
65 stone steps, with the stream's water flowing down them all the time.
What is the tunnel for?
It was built in the early 20th century so the stream would pass under the railroad line instead of running over the tracks.
How do you get to the Túnel Encantado?
From the Estação Ferroviária de Matilde: about 400 meters on foot along the tracks and then a short forest trail.
Do I need a flashlight?
Yes. The tunnel is dark and damp, with running water on the steps. Bring a flashlight and shoes that can get wet.
Is it suitable for children and seniors?
It is an adventure outing, with slippery rocks and little light. Only for those with good mobility, and children should always be closely supervised.