Perched on a 154-metre basalt outcrop that rises abruptly from the coastal plain, the Convento da Penha is the most striking sight in the Vitória metropolitan area. The Franciscan convent was founded in the 16th century and the church at its summit remains an active pilgrimage destination, drawing enormous crowds for the Festa do Espírito Santo each May.
The climb is about 20 minutes on foot up uneven stone steps — steep enough to be memorable, not so difficult as to be a serious hike. The reward is a panoramic view over the bay, Vila Velha's beaches, and Vitória's island skyline. Inside, the church is relatively simple in decoration but atmospheric; the grounds include a small museum with historical artefacts and ex-votos left by pilgrims over the centuries.