Catarina Alps: The largest indoor ski slope in the Americas.
Catherine Alps This is the name that will define a new level of real estate and tourism development in the Americas. Located in Rancho Queimado, in the Serra Catarinense region, the project is consolidating itself as an unprecedented proposal for integrating high-end housing, boutique and luxury hotels, family entertainment, and the largest winter sports complex in the Americas, with absolute prominence given to the largest indoor ski slope on the continent.
The initiative is led by the NOWA Group and proposes a smart urban planning model that combines quality of life, cultural experiences, and sustainability on a plot of approximately [area missing]. 800,000 square meters, just an hour from the capital Florianópolis.
What makes Catarina Alps such a grand project?
Firstly, the structural scope of the project reveals an ambitious and meticulously planned design. The total estimated investment exceeds... R$ 1.5 billion, reflecting the long-term vision of the creators and their belief in the tourism and economic potential of the Serra Catarinense region.
Therefore, the project will include:
- 141,300 m² in high-end homes;
- 25,600 m² dedicated to residential apartments;
- 25,100 m² intended for two resorts and a boutique hotel;
- 42,000 m² indoor ski slope;
- 1,000 m² skating rink;
- 31,000 m² commercial area;
- 3,500 m² for karting in the snow;
- 4,000 m² a children's playground, in addition to cultural experiences, a treetop adventure park and events.
In other words, it's a true mixed-use neighborhood, with infrastructure for tourism, leisure, housing, sports, and business—all integrated with elegance and urban intelligence.
What will the largest indoor ski slope in the Americas look like?
The great distinguishing feature of Alpes Catarina is the unprecedented indoor ski slope with a length of 500 meters, Developed with varying difficulty levels and color-coded signage, similar to European models, the structure will be air-conditioned, allowing the sport to be practiced year-round, regardless of external weather conditions.
According to its creators, the slope will cater to everyone from beginners and children to experienced athletes, creating a new benchmark for national winter tourism. Furthermore, the space will be complemented by ski schools, training areas, and specialized services.
As a result, the project positions Brazil as a ski destination in any season, something previously reserved for countries like Chile, Argentina, Canada, or Switzerland.
Why was Rancho Queimado chosen as the location?
Located in the Serra Catarinense mountain range, Rancho Queimado has strategic characteristics for the implementation of a project of this magnitude. First and foremost, its easy access stands out: it is only 69 km from Florianópolis International Airport It is 49 km from São José Aeroclub, making the destination highly viable for both domestic and international tourists.
Furthermore, the municipality offers a mild climate throughout the year, preserved nature, and increasing real estate value, with a consolidated tourism vocation. Frequently compared to the mountainous regions of Europe, the location was chosen as ideal to receive the integrated urban planning model proposed by the development.
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Rancho Queimado: A destination for those seeking peace, nature, and family moments, with comfort and sophistication.
Rancho Queimado, a municipality located in the heart of the Serra Catarinense mountain range, is establishing itself as the ideal retreat for families seeking a more serene, safe life integrated with nature. With breathtaking landscapes, marked by... valleys, hills and beautiful vegetation, The city brings together all the elements of a sophisticated lifestyle, while preserving the simplicity and welcoming atmosphere typical of the countryside.
The climate is another attraction in itself: mild temperatures in summer It is cold and pleasant winters They create an atmosphere comparable to small European Alpine villages. This characteristic makes the region especially suitable for winter sports – even in indoor facilities – and reinforces the potential of... Catherine Alps as a new epicenter of high-end tourism.
Furthermore, Rancho Queimado has a Germanic tradition which is evident in the architecture, gastronomy, and popular festivals. In other words, the municipality inherently possesses a vocation for cultural and rural tourism, which favors the implementation of projects that value regional heritage and promote authentic experiences.
Therefore, many families from Florianópolis – especially from neighborhoods like Jurerê Internacional – own properties in Rancho Queimado to enjoy school holidays, long weekends, and end-of-year festivities. It is common for these houses to host family members from other cities or states, becoming the setting for memorable family gatherings, surrounded by nature, comfort, and tranquility.
Villages that are true leisure havens.
From a real estate perspective, the city offers houses and also large and valuable plots of land, These properties are ideal for building private villas, houses with swimming pools, leisure areas, and landscaping projects that prioritize family life and contemplation. In many cases, they are true havens where large families can live with privacy, security, and quality of life.
Moreover, Rancho Queimado's strategic location enhances its attractiveness. Served by BR-282, The city connects the coast to the central and western regions of Santa Catarina, such as Lages, Joaçaba, and Chapecó. Simultaneously, its proximity to... airports and urban centers It allows for easy travel, making it an ideal destination for weekends, summer vacations, or permanent residence.
Therefore, it's not just a tourist destination – Rancho Queimado symbolizes a lifestyle. A way of living where nature, quality time with family, and understated luxury converge to create an unparalleled environment of peace, comfort, and authenticity.
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What are the impacts on tourism and the region's economy?
Above all, the Catarina Alps project represents an economic turning point for the Santa Catarina mountain range. Currently, Santa Catarina already receives approximately 10 million tourists per year, with an increase of 53% in the number of international visitors. At the same time, the region where the project will be implemented has a population density of 20.02 million people within a radius of 400 km, which exponentially increases the potential for visitation and consumption.
In this regard, the following stands out:
- 20,000 vehicles They travel daily along BR-282, the main access road to the complex;
- 10% annual growth in tourism regional;
- 3.4 million people from social classes A and B+ They make up the direct target audience.
In other words, there is a convergence between infrastructure, demand, and attractiveness that favors both commercial success and the generation of local jobs and income.
What will it be like to live or stay at Alpes Catarina?
Living in Alpes Catarina will essentially be synonymous with exclusivity. The residential villas are being designed to offer extreme comfort, integration with the environment, and contemporary architecture. The first one is scheduled for launch soon. 2026, as stated by Fabrício Farias, partner of the NOWA Group.
On the other hand, the hotel sector also promises to redefine standards. Two resorts and a boutique hotel are planned with... 40 suites Focused on highly personalized service, the concept is to bring the feeling of five-star accommodation to the heart of the Serra Catarinense region, emphasizing well-being, refined gastronomy, and connection with nature.
Complementing this ecosystem of experiences, the commercial spaces will offer high-end shops, a craft brewery, a winery, services, and a gastronomic village with a strong cultural appeal.
What other leisure and entertainment options does the project offer?
Similarly, Alpes Catarina incorporates a range of attractions geared towards family leisure and sports activities. Highlights include:
- Go-karting in the snow, with covered and secure infrastructure;
- Themed children's playground, aimed at children of different age groups;
- Tree climbing park, promoting direct contact with nature;
- Event center with a permanent schedule of cultural and sporting activities.
All of this was carefully planned to provide a lifestyle that values well-being, sensory experiences, and community integration — without sacrificing sophistication.
What will be the impact of Alpes Catarina on the real estate market in Greater Florianópolis?
The creation of Alpes Catarina will enhance the behavior of the real estate market in Greater Florianópolis. By combining the European atmosphere of the Serra Catarinense mountains with the proximity to the coast, the development adds an unprecedented layer of value to the experience of living or investing in the region. In other words, it's about connecting the beach lifestyle of Florianópolis with the exclusivity of a mountain destination. Both accessible in less than an hour's drive.
Consequently, those who have already acquired properties in upscale neighborhoods of the capital, such as Jurerê Internacional, Lagoa da Conceição, or Cacupé, tend to reap significant benefits. The appreciation of the highway axis between Florianópolis and Rancho Queimado impacts the liquidity of assets. It also expands the range of possible uses. It becomes possible to enjoy the beach in the summer and skiing in the winter, while always remaining close to home.
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Quality of life, exclusivity and geographic versatility
Furthermore, the launch of the project increases the attractiveness of Greater Florianópolis for a buyer profile that seeks not only a second home, but also quality of life, exclusivity and geographic versatility. More experienced investors already see Alpes Catarina as a driver of expansion for the so-called "new high-end route," which is emerging between the coast and the mountains.
Likewise, those planning to invest in the region now find a strategic advantage: proximity to an elite tourist destination, which should consolidate Rancho Queimado as the new hub of the mountain real estate market. This represents a direct increase in demand for properties in the surrounding area, whether for personal use or as an alternative for short-term rentals with high profitability.
Therefore, the impact of the Catherine Alps is not limited to tourism or leisure – it redefines urban behavior and repositions the entire region as a hub for investment, lifestyle, and sophistication.
Could Rancho Queimado become the Mendoza of Santa Catarina?
The comparison between Burned Ranch It is Mendoza, The renowned wine region of Argentina is gaining traction among investors, tourism industry experts, and those who appreciate the finer life. While each location possesses its own distinct identity, there are undeniable parallels that support this association – especially in the current context of transformation experienced by the municipality in Santa Catarina.
Like Mendoza, Rancho Queimado brings together beautiful landscapes. A pleasant climate with harsh winters and mild summers. One natural inclination for sensory experiences linked to gastronomy, wine, and sightseeing tourism. Furthermore, both regions share a culture rooted in family traditions and a harmonious relationship with the land.
Tourism, wine, culture, and architecture intertwine.
With the advancement of ventures such as Catherine Alps, Rancho Queimado is now consolidating a high-standard infrastructure Aimed at a discerning audience that values authenticity, sophistication, and nature, gastronomic villages, craft breweries, wineries, and restaurants focused on local ingredients are already emerging to meet the new demand forming around the region.
Furthermore, the concept of placemaking proposed by the development. Which unites commercial, cultural and leisure spaces around a collective identity. It echoes urban planning practices adopted in regions such as Mendoza, where tourism, wine, culture and architecture intertwine masterfully.
It's also worth highlighting that, just as Mendoza is positioning itself as an international destination for wine tourism, Rancho Queimado is already beginning to attract attention from the international market. This is especially true after the announcement of the construction of the largest indoor ski slope in the Americas. It's the ideal setting for those who wish to invest, live, or simply enjoy a place where quality of life is celebrated in every detail.
Therefore, although Rancho Queimado is unique in its essence, its trajectory points to a future in which the city projects itself as the “"Mendoza of Santa Catarina"” – a destination where wine, mountains, hospitality and elegance come together to offer unforgettable experiences.
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