Vitorli Machado and his son, Anizio, are the 4th and 5th generations to operate the ranch Morro Grande (the Big Hill) near Bom Jardim da Serra, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Vitorli's Great Grandfather was of Portuguese descent and immigrated to the region toward the end of the 19th century via the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul. Like many of the immigrants, he took advantage of the natural grasslands and abundant water supplies and became a cattle rancher. The Morro Grande ranch continues to produce free range, hormone free cattle and provides succulent beef to the region and the rest of Brazil.

       In1990, an addition was put on the farmhouse to accommodate travelers and the Pousada (Bed and Breakfast) Morro Grande was born. The Pousada has treated many travelers  since then with home grown, home cooked meals, horseback tours through the tranquil invigorating countryside, and the warm atmosphere of the traditional Gaucho lifestyle.