Set above a sleepy fishing village overlooking a vast bay lined with deserted beaches, this small boutique hotel in Brazil was converted from a colonial-era mansion to  offer immersion in pristine nature with boutique hotel comforts. 

With the rainforest-covered Serra do Mar State Park at its back, and a marine protection area stretching out as far as the eye can see, the hotel's location in the UNESCO village of Picinguaba is part of a tiny island of humanity in a vast swath of wilderness. 

In creating the property, the owners have developed a movement that puts guests in touch with the riches of Brazil's exuberant nature, the beauty of its inhabitants, and its plural culture.

Creating a model of systemic self-sufficiency, the goal is to raise awareness of our relationship with our planet  and our role in harmony with nature.

From slow food to rainforest walks, the definition of comfort and peace is crafted around design and architecture integrated with nature, prompting you to unplug and let go.  

Overlooking a peaceful bay at the heart of the Serra do Mar National Park, this small luxury hotel is accessed via a local road from the beach, nestled into the rainforest along a deserted sandy beach.

The hotel offers 10 comfortable rooms all opening out to nature and the sea, including a dreamy honeymoon suite with en-suite jacuzzi and a breathtaking view of the ocean. Each of the rooms have a private balcony to watch the sea and the forest in the tranquil swing of a hammock.

The interior decor blends Portguguese colonial architecture with traditional Amazonian Indian craftsmanship that span the history of the region. 

A large spring-water swimming pool is set in the tropical gardens designed by a Sao Paulo landscape architect using native species of plants. The pool bar offers tropical juices and snacks during the day and cocktails at night with a large deck featuring panoramic views of the bay. 

Preserving the natural sights and sounds of the wild tropical landscape, with the waves lapping the shore, this is an unplugged escape to remember.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

24 hr. concierge and front desk service. In house restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner for guests made from organic, local specialities raised and grown at the hotel's own farm. Optional spa and massage service, yoga. 

The hotel's philosophy of connecting guests with nature, history and local culture, eliminates distractions such as TV, minibar, telephone and internet, and the menu does not include industrialized products such as soft drinks and meat that are not produced on the farm. Housekeeping and laundry services. Hiking, boating and paddle boarding tours with locals. All areas are non-smoking.

AROUND

Midway between Rio and São Paulo along the lush Costa Verde and the Serra do Mar, the village of Picinguaba is situated in Ubatuba 30 minutes from Paraty. 

There are several immersive walks to enjoy including to Picinguaba Village, Paraty and the Gold Trail. As a UNESCO World heritage site, the central district of Paraty is strikingly preserved in time and you’ll see and feel the cultural and architectural significance everywhere. Cobble stone streets, whitewashed exteriors and playful splashes of color are all hallmarks of the 17th century Portuguese colonial influence.

The town fronts the Ilha Grande bay and it’s multiple islands and the Serra do Mar and Serra da Bocaina mountains inland. Once you’ve soaked in village life, head out on the private boat to a deserted beach or one of the neighboring islands and explore the dazzling expanses of nature that haven’t been overrun with tourists.

The hotel provides itineraries that lead to secret beaches and virgin rainforest trails with spectacular waterfalls and bird watching.

Enjoy the local beaches including Praia da Fazenda, or head out by by schooner or the traditional caiçara canoe fishing boats which are a symbol of Picinguaba's relationship with the sea.  

LOCATION

Paraty, Costa Verde, Brazil. Nearest Airport: Rio de Janeiro Airport is a four hour drive to Paraty. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT: December to March, August and September