Holy Cross Way
the defense triangle and the spanish invasion
Minimum recommended age*:
5 years
* The ages listed are only a suggestion; every child is unique, and it is up to each parent or guardian to decide whether their child is ready for the adventure. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Why do this activity?
For those who enjoy nature and history in the same experience, this is one of the most complete itineraries in our portfolio. A relatively easy hike offers the opportunity to discover an important aspect of Florianópolis’ history while still enjoying the sea and the surrounding landscape.
Starting point
Praia do Forte beachfront, Florianópolis
End point
Praia do Forte beachfront, Florianópolis
Route Classification
Click here to learn how the Route Classification system works.
Activity Details
This hike takes place between Praia da Daniela and Praia do Forte, in the north of the Island, on a 3.9 km circular route. It begins along the beach, going from Praia do Forte toward Praia da Daniela, and returns along the upper section of Morro do Forte. Along the trail, in addition to the beaches, we pass by Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa, whose construction began in 1740, the cross that gives the trail its name, and beautiful natural viewpoints overlooking Praia de Jurerê, Praia da Daniela, Ilhas de Anhatomirim and Ratones, and the entrance to Baía Norte.
Value:
R$ 590,00
Activity price for groups of 1 to 4 people. Please contact us for larger groups.
The booking date will be confirmed upon advance payment of 25% of the total activity price. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 7 days before the activity. For bookings made less than 7 days in advance, full payment is required.
Included:
Individual insurance;
Tour guide registered with the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism, certified in wilderness first aid by Wilderness Medical Associates and Escola de Aventura;
Guides authorized by the Municipality of Florianópolis;
Admission to the fortress;
We may be able to offer a ride from central Florianópolis;
Loan of gaiters;
Hiking activities with a Safety Management System based on ISO 21101.
Not included:
Transportation expenses;
Meals and other food expenses.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellation by the customer
Cancellations made 7 days or more before the activity will receive a full refund.
For cancellations made between 7 days and 24 hours before the activity, 25% of the total amount will be retained.
Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the activity, or failure to attend, are non-refundable, without prejudice to any rights provided by law.
Cancellation by Família na Trilha
If the activity is cancelled by Família na Trilha due to weather conditions that may compromise safety, access difficulties, operational issues or other circumstances that prevent the activity from being carried out safely, the customer may choose between rescheduling or receiving a full refund of the amounts paid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Caminho da Santa Cruz Trail difficult?
No. Caminho da Santa Cruz is approximately 3.9 km long with little elevation change, making it a relatively short and accessible hike for those comfortable walking for around 3 hours. The route combines beach sections and trails, with some uphill stretches and uneven terrain on Morro do Forte. As this is a private activity, the pace and stops can be adapted to the group.
Crianças podem fazer o Caminho da Santa Cruz?
Sim. O Caminho da Santa Cruz é uma boa opção de trilha com crianças em Florianópolis. A distância é relativamente curta e o percurso alterna praia, Mata Atlântica, mirantes e a Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa, trazendo diferentes elementos para despertar a curiosidade durante a caminhada. Para crianças menores, temos uma mochila especial para carregar crianças, disponível para aluguel. Ela pode ser utilizada por crianças que já conseguem permanecer sentadas de forma autônoma e pesam até 22 kg.
Does Caminho da Santa Cruz pass by the São José da Ponta Grossa Fortress?
Yes. A visit to the São José da Ponta Grossa Fortress is part of Caminho da Santa Cruz, and admission is included in the activity. Built beginning in 1740, the fortress was part of the defensive system of Santa Catarina Island and is one of the main historical landmarks in northern Florianópolis. During the visit, we present its history and its relationship with the settlement and defense of the region.
Where does Caminho da Santa Cruz go in Florianópolis?
Caminho da Santa Cruz is a circular trail of approximately 3.9 km between Praia do Forte and Praia da Daniela, in northern Florianópolis. The route follows the beach, crosses Morro do Forte, passes by the cross that gives the trail its name and reaches viewpoints overlooking Jurerê, Daniela and the islands of Anhatomirim and Ratones.
How does the private Caminho da Santa Cruz experience with Família na Trilha work?
The activity is exclusively for your group and is accompanied by a professional guide. In addition to the hike, Caminho da Santa Cruz is an opportunity to learn about part of the history of Florianópolis and the defensive system of Santa Catarina Island. The pace, stops and guiding are adapted to the profile and interests of the participants, allowing more time to focus on history, nature, landscapes or other aspects that spark the group’s curiosity.