...Trip idea
The Beauty of Brazil
Uncover the beauty of Brazil on a trip that will inspire and mesmerise you in equal turns through its magnificent mountains, thundering waterfalls, tropical islands, jungle-backed coastline and vibrant cities.
RIO REVEALED
Welcome to South America and one of its most archetypal, dynamic and exciting cities: Rio! Facing the Atlantic Ocean, Rio de Janeiro is known for gorgeous beaches – Ipanema and Copacabana – and its iconic beacon – the 38-metre statue of Christ the Redeemer that presides over the vibrant landscapes.
With two days in Rio, you’ll have time to dip into the best of this intoxicating city – get your bearings by ascending the cog train through Rio’s forest to reach Corcovado mountain and admire Christ the Redeemer’s outstretched arms and dizzying views of the city. Another incredible viewpoint is from Sugarloaf Mountain, a smooth granite pinnacle accessed by cable car. You’ll also want to get among Rio’s fun-loving residents – either on the beach, promenade and samba clubs. Take a guided tour of arty Santa Theresa district lined with belle époque mansions and art galleries. Allow us to arrange the cherry on the cake – a scenic helicopter ride over Rio and its surrounds.
STAY: BELMOND COPACABANA PALACE
Known as a legendary Rio landmark, Belmond Copacabana is wreathed in heritage and has the looks to boot. With the charm of a Slim Aarons photograph, Belmond Copacabana is Art Deco meets old-world glamour with a beautiful terrace and pool that looks out onto the beach (and is also the place-to-be for Rio’s famed New Year’s firework displays.)
PEACEFUL PARATY
From Rio, continue southwards on your exploration of Brazil with a two-hour drive to the UNESCO town of Paraty, a small colonial settlement characterised by cobbled streets, colourful houses, baroque churches and a historic centre, backed by dense jungle and opening out onto a series of stunning beach coves.
Located on Brazil’s Green Coast, Paraty is perfect to explore on foot, discovering the multitude of galleries and artisan shops that make this creative town so unique. But one of the best ways to experience Paraty is by boat – as it has over 65 islands and hundreds of beautiful beaches with crystal clear water. We’ll arrange a private boat cruise by schooner to discover tiny, exquisite islands, encircled by sandy beaches, with tropical jungle at their heart, with plenty of time for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling.
STAY: CASA TURQUESA
This stylish colonial townhouse in the centre of Paraty, filled with heart and soul, will win you over with its friendly staff and glorious setting on the harbour pier. With just nine suites, the ambience is intimate, decorated with antiques and artwork brought over by the French owner.
MANTIQUERIA MOUNTAINS
Turning away from the coastline towards the verdant greens of Brazil’s interior, next stop is the Mantiqueira Mountains, three and a half hours northern west. This rural hinterland is the prefect spot to indulge in some wellness in pristine nature.
The rolling hills are a patchwork of greens, misty in the morning to entice walkers to set out on its pathways where you’ll hear a chorus of birds who nest in the pristine flora along the way. We can arrange an oncologist to accompany you and help identify those brightly coloured flashes of plumage. You may also like to horse ride up mountain trails or let a guided tour reveal the forest’s secrets like hidden fruits you can find growing in this lush environment.
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SIX SENSES BOTANIQUE
Your base in the Mantiqueira Mountains will be the rustic-luxe residence Six Senses Botanique. The first Six Senses in South America, the hotel has a deep focus on immersion in nature. Perched between three rivers and backed by the mountains, the structure made of wood and local stone, blends into its environment and facilitates nature-gazing with plentiful use of glass. Make use of the excellent spa programmes which are formulated by pioneering experts, doctors and practitioners.
THUNDERING FALLS
For the final part of this trip, you’ll travel by road to Sao Paulo before taking an internal flight south to the mighty Iguazu Falls to witness this astonishing feat of nature with your own eyes.
Straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina, few can fail to be impressed by the cascading sheet of water that defines Iguazu, bordered by deep jungle. There are numerous ways in which to take in the scenery. Wander the wooden walkways to a series of viewpoints; take a speedboat ride to the base of the falls, surging through cauldrons of frothing white water to the Devil’s Throat, or rise above it all on a helicopter flight which offers unrivalled views of the falls from the air. After three magical days here, travel back to Sao Paulo and board your flight home.
STAY: BELMOND DAS CATARATAS
Located within the Iguassu National Park, Belmond das Cataratas is just a short stroll from the sensational waterfalls giving you exclusive access from dawn to dusk. The hotel itself is the ideal place to relax, the Portuguese-colonial architecture creates breezy verandas to enjoy excellent service under giant sun-tropical palms.
Stephanie Carthy
Personal Travel Designer
01488 689700 stephanie.carthy@baileyrobinson.com Read Stephanie’s profile
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