Considered one of the most attractive residential subdivisions in the Metropolitan Region of Curitiba, Recreio da Serra is located in the mountainous area of the municipality of Piraquara. Comprised of 492 properties, neighboring the largest remaining block of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, it is a place of great biodiversity, beauty, and tranquility — attributes provided by a set of unique landscapes and ecosystems.

So many well-preserved natural resources benefit more than just the residents of Recreio da Serra. The total area of 572.6 hectares has a special function: to provide water. There are some of the springs that are part of the Upper Iguassu River watershed. On the eastern edge, the combination of the Atlantic Forest and the rugged orographic relief results in a higher incidence of humidity and rainfall, which in turn induces a greater capacity for water absorption and storage by the forests and associated soils. This stable hydric regime also guarantees the presence of streams and lakes in Recreio da Serra. It is this ecological balance that provides a continuous flow of water to the tributaries that contribute to the 1,300-kilometer course of the Iguassu River, so important to the economy of the state of Paraná.

Given its environmental characteristics, which require continual nature conservation actions, the occupation and use of the land in Recreio da Serra is subject to specific rules. As an example, vehicle traffic is controlled and the construction of buildings is subject to specific standards, aiming to avoid disturbance to the fauna and to protect the springs and valley bottoms from sedimentation. About 17% (96.3 hectares) of the area of the subdivision is exclusively destined to the preservation of native vegetation.

The effects of these precautions are evident daily: songs, flocks, and abundance of bird nests; frequent sightings of medium-sized mammals — Tayras, Agouti , Porcupines, Howler Monkeys, and Capuchins, among others. As can be seen in this short video made in the backyard of a residence in Recreio da Serra. Occasionally, in more remote places, larger animals such as Tapirs, Puma and Deers are recorded.