UXUA CASA

TRANCOSO, Brazil

THE PERSONALITIES

Design and architecture lovers. Escapists. Wellness aficionados.

MOMENTS

Timeless design. A beach for every mood. His and hers rain showers. Complimentary Havaianas.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Anytime! Subtropical climate all year-round.

COST

WHY STAY

UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa is one of the reasons one should visit the Bahia State of Brazil. Enjoy barefoot luxury, one-of-a-kind sustainable design, and genuine warm hospitality.

The 16 unique Casitas have been restored and designed by the former creative director of Diesel, Wilbert Das, with help from local artists. Some Casitas date back as far as 500 years! Choose a one, two or three bedroom Casita or the Treehouse - all made from reclaimed materials. 

Visit the Beach Club, and see why UXUA's Beach Bar is named one of the best in the world. End the day at the spa, inspired by the natural Bahian elements - mangroves, rainforest, sea, and sand. Make sure to try the Almescar Tree Oil Massage, the hotel's signature. All spa products are hand-made from coconut oil, shea butter, Brazil nuts, and dark cocoa grown in the gardens on-site.

WHY WANDER

Trancoso is located in Porto Seguro district in the state of Bahia, Brazil, with rainforest, mangroves, and over 25 km of white sand beaches along the Atlantic coast. Visit the Barra Do Rio Trancoso Beach for UXUA Praia Bar and see where the ocean meets the Trancoso River. The Rio Da Barra Beach, only 4 km away, is perfect for canoeing and the Rio Verde Beach is a special hiking destination, with its diverse flora and fauna. Patimirim Beach is perfect if you are looking for something remote, and Itaquena Beach is great for surfing. For beach bars and a lively atmosphere, wander over the The Praia dos Nativos beach.

INDULGE IN

Gourmet iced cold treats made on the premises, like the chocolate & Bahian pepper ice cream (from cacao and hot peppers grown in UXUA's garden), fresh organic popsicles made with coconut water and pulp, or the Tapioca ice cream sandwiches. Coconut lovers will really enjoy the UXUA Caipicoco, a take on the iconic Caipirinha. For dinner, try the mixed seafood and black rice dish in tomato-basil and pitanga-fruit sauce. 

GETTING THERE

Fly into Porto Seguro and take an hour long drive to Trancoso. Rio de Janiero is a 70-minute fight away. 

WILD INITIATIVES

Over the past 15 years, UXUA has gained recognition for its innovative sustainability initiatives, earning nominations for the Virtuoso's Sustainable Tourism Leadership Award for three consecutive years. Far more than just a hotel, UXUA is a groundbreaking experiment aimed at fostering positive impacts on various fronts. It prioritizes elevating local craft traditions, promoting progressive working practices and education, enhancing social mobility, and supporting indigenous communities, all while championing environmental conservation efforts.

In 2017, UXUA achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Brazilian hotel to be accepted as a signatory to the UN Global Compact, committing to ten principles related to labor, human rights, environmental protection, and anti-corruption, aligned with the United Nations' 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. These principles are not merely ideals but are integrated into UXUA's business objectives, with the team approaching them professionally and strategically on a daily basis.

To further amplify its impact and stay abreast of best practices, UXUA's founders hold board positions in prominent environmental and tourism organizations, including Conservation International Brazil and CREST (Center for Responsible Travel). Locally, UXUA actively participates in non-profit initiatives such as Association Despertar, dedicated to sustainable tourism in Trancoso, and FUTURI, a regenerative tourism initiative in southern Bahia. Through collaborations with partners like Conservation International Brazil, UXUA facilitates projects ranging from sustainable fishing initiatives to educational programs like MAMA Trancoso, which empowers local youth through environmental and activism education. These efforts underscore UXUA's commitment to not only providing exceptional hospitality but also being a catalyst for positive change in its community and beyond.

*Images property of UXUA

 FAZENDA MOREIAS

Ceará, BRAZIL

THE PERSONALITIES

Kite surfers. Lagoon lovers. Bird Watchers. Travellers looking for the ultimate off-the-grid destination.  

MOMENTS

An oasis within an oasis. The ocean meeting the sand dunes. 300 days of sun. The ever-present wind. The contrast between the ancient sands and the lush forest. Century-old cashew trees. Untouched mangroves. Community-inspired living. Being close to and far from everything. True wild.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Ceará experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. However, there are some factors to consider:

1. Dry Season (July to December): This period is considered the dry season in Ceará, characterized by lower humidity and minimal rainfall. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities like beachgoing, hiking, and exploring the region's natural attractions. The weather is typically sunny and pleasant during these months, making it ideal for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor adventures.

2. High Season (December to February): The months of December through February constitute the high tourist season in Ceará, primarily due to school holidays and the festive season.

3. Kitesurfing Season (August to November): Ceará, particularly the region around Jericoacoara, is renowned as one of the world's best kitesurfing destinations. The windy season typically runs from August to November, attracting kitesurfing enthusiasts from around the globe. If you're passionate about watersports, especially kitesurfing, this period offers ideal wind conditions for an exhilarating experience.

COST

WHY STAY

It is a gift to discover a new destination - something that is almost impossible to do in today’s overconnected world. Fazenda Moreias has managed to surprise us, standing as an eco-hotel oasis nestled within the vibrant state of Ceará in northeastern Brazil, a hidden gem near the bustling hubs of Jericoacoara and Tatajuba. Renowned as one of the world's premier kitesurfing destinations, the region offers a unique blend of raw natural beauty and cultural richness.

Fazenda Moreias currently features four bungalows designed by Carlos Motta, Gui Mattos, DEF and Daniel Fromer award-winning Brazilian architects renowned for their expertise in sustainable luxury and commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Each bungalow, elevated three meters above ground to preserve the natural flow of the surrounding sand dunes, boasts its own private pool and embraces biophilic architecture principles, seamlessly integrating with the natural landscape. Designed with the elements in mind, specifically the wind, the bungalows are fully customizable to follow the natural air flow and light patterns. The hotel plans to unveil twenty new bungalows and twelve village houses in 2024. The expansion project will also include restaurants, shops, an art gallery, as well as a wellness hub, all designed with a community-driven approach and influenced by vernacular architecture that respects local customs and materials.

The regenerative ethos of Fazenda Moreias extends beyond its architectural design, encompassing sustainable engineering practices and minimal-impact construction techniques. Geo-environmental reports inform the hotel’s engineering endeavors, ensuring minimal disruption to local biomes and promoting circularity in water, energy, and sanitation systems. Fazenda Moreias’ commitment to ecology and respect for nature has earned it recognition as a B Corp Certified establishment.

From kite surfing to dreaming under the shade of a century-old cashew nut tree, every aspect of the hotel is thoughtfully curated to promote a "slow life" philosophy. Here, amidst the whispering winds and starlit skies, Fazenda Moreias encapsulates the essence of isolation and community, offering a sanctuary where guests can connect, recharge, and find solace in the embrace of the natural world.

WHY WANDER

Moréias boasts an expansive private park in Brazil, with 35% of its land covered in mesmerizing dunes.

Nestled across 25 million square meters of preserved land, Fazenda Moreias boasts a diverse array of ecosystems, from 8 kilometres of pristine beaches to sand dunes to lush mangrove forests, creating a habitat rich in biodiversity.

Explore the untouched natural lagoon, wander through the region's largest private dune park, and marvel at the spectacle of "mini-lençóis" that emerge during the rainy season. Visitors to the Moréias Dunes Park experience a surreal sensation akin to entering another world. The midday sun enhances the adventure with an optical illusion, blurring the distinction between the sky and the sand.

Visit the nearby Jericoacoara National Park, a natural marvel renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine beauty. Spanning over 8,600 hectares along the coast, the park encompasses a diverse array of ecosystems. Designated a protected area in 2002, the park's conservation efforts aim to safeguard its rich biodiversity and unique natural heritage, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

With cross-shore trade winds providing ideal conditions for water sports year-round, guests can indulge in kite boarding, kayaking, paddling, and fishing in the clear waters of Rio Coreaú, or embark on quad bike adventures and buggy tours through the rugged terrain. For those seeking tranquility, yoga sessions in the wild and nighttime dune walks under the starlit sky offer moments of introspection. Whether birdwatching, sand-boarding, horseback riding, or simply basking in the mineral beauty of the landscape, Fazenda Moreias offers a full immersion in raw natural wonders.

INDULGE IN

"Baiao de dois” and "muqueca de arraia” - the regional dishes of Ceará. Oysters freshly caught from the river that runs along the property. Cashews from century-old cashew trees. Fresh fish, lobster, shrimp, marinated octopus. "Farinhada" - tapioca with local farinha. Pizza from Pizzaria Moréias. Fresh seafood prepared in your bungalow.

GETTING THERE

For those flying internationally or domestically within Brazil, Fortaleza Airport in Ceará serves as a primary gateway. From Fortaleza, visitors can embark on a scenic 5-hour drive to reach Fazenda Moreias. Alternatively, travelers can opt for flights to Jericoacoara Airport, located only 70 kilometers from the hotel.

WILD INITIATIVES

At Fazenda Moreias, sustainability is more than a goal; it's a deeply ingrained mission to protect, regenerate, and honor the delicate ecosystem surrounding the property. This commitment extends across every facet of operations, from energy production to waste management. Harnessing the region's abundant sunlight, Fazenda Moreias operates entirely off-grid, relying solely on solar panels and lithium batteries for power, ensuring minimal environmental impact and a sustainable energy source for the long term. Moreover, natural ground-water filtration guarantees potable water throughout the farm, while an underground high-quality fiber optic network, imperceptible in the landscape, facilitates communication without disrupting the natural beauty.

The hotel’s dedication to sustainability encompasses its infrastructure, with 100% permeable roads and a strict policy against introducing exotic species, preserving the region's native flora and fauna. Embracing a circular economy model, Fazenda Moreias prioritizes waste management and recycling, utilizing biodigesters to convert organic waste into compost that nourishes the land and safeguards groundwater. Additionally, the hotel invests in the local community, providing vocational training and supporting educational initiatives through the Moreias Institute, enriching the lives of over 70 local children while directing 1% of revenue towards the institute's operations. This holistic approach not only benefits the environment but also enhances the quality of life for both residents and the surrounding community, setting a precedent for sustainable living in the region.

*Images property of Fazenda Moreias

Kenoa Beach Spa & Resort

Brazil

THE PERSONALITIES

Design lovers. Foodies. Writers. Lovers and friends looking for a remote beachside retreat.

MOMENTS

Endless deserted beach. Vast ocean. Sustainable architecture. Warm hospitality. Unspoilt peace. 

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Anytime! Subtropical climate all year-round.

COST

WHY STAY

Kenoa Beach Spa & Resort is a remote beachfront design hotel in Barra de Sao Miguel, just nine degrees south of the equator in northeast Brazil.

Inspired by nature, the resort was designed and built using sustainable Brazilian materials in unexpected ways. There are 23 villa-style cabanas, complete with panoramic views of the Atlantic coast, interior gardens, terraces, traditional Japanese ufuro tubs, and plunge pools in some.

Relax under eucalyptus trees in Kenoa's many private outdoor areas. Watch the sun go down from the infinity pool. Visit the spa and try the unique Vine Treatment or the Crushed Cabernet Scrub Exfoliation.

WHY WANDER

Enjoy the endless ocean views. Learn how to surf. Swim in a nearby lagoon. Run long the warm sand. Discover the nature reserve, neighbouring the resort.

INDULGE IN

High-end Brazilian cuisine. Champagne and oysters. Coconut water. Wine from Kenoa's wine bar.

GETTING THERE

Kenoa is 45 min by car from Maceió Airport. 

*Images property of Kenoa

Ponta dos Ganchos

Brazil

THE PERSONALITIES

Lovers and friends looking for a private luxury retreat. Travellers celebrating special occasions.

MOMENTS

Authentic romance. Ombre skies. Private island dinners. Secluded bay. Watching fishing boats at sunset.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

November to March - Brazilian summer.

COST

WHY STAY

Ponta dos Ganchos is an adult-only luxury resort in a private bay near Florianópolis, the capital city of the state of Santa Catarina, in southern Brazil. Located in a peaceful emerald cove, and surrounded by ancient cliffs, a lush jungle and a charming fishing village, the retreat provides an authentic and private escape.

There are 25 modern bungalows and villas with split level bedrooms, sea view decks, and handmade hammocks with nothing but small scattered islands and the Atlantic Ocean in your view. Enjoy a heated swimming pool, dry sauna, and tranquil gardens. Wake up to bird song and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. Take in the unique surroundings.

WHY WANDER

Take a trip through the Emerald Coast on an authentic fishing boat, complete with an oyster and wine tasting. Go diving in the Arvoredo marine biology reserve . Take part in SwáSthya yoga offered onsite. Visit Praia de Fora beach for unparalleled surfing and fishing, offering a 100-metre stretch of white sand. Hike through the Atlantic rainforest to get a bird’s eye view of Ilha Grande and Praia de Palmas. Take a day trip to Florianópolis, the Baía dos Golfinhos (dolphin bay) or the Anhatomirim Fort. Indulge in a helicopter ride for an unforgettable viewing experience.

INDULGE IN

Oysters. Grilled fresh seafood. Dinner on a private island by Chef José Nero.

GETTING THERE

Fly into Florianopolis and arrange a private transfer with the hotel. (Helicopter and boat transfers are also available) 

*Images property of Ponta dos Ganchos

Cristalino Lodge

THE AMAZON, Brazil

PERSONALITIES

Bird Enthusiasts. Jungle explorers. Eco tourists.   

MOMENTS

A luxury rainforest experience. Late afternoon river boat trips. Close wildlife encounters. Fire burning in the middle of the river deck.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Anytime! The dry season is from June to November, and the green season is from December to May.

COST

WHY STAY

Cristalino Lodge is a luxury rainforest resort nestled deep within the Brazilian Amazon that combines adventure with conservation. Surrounded by the lush and biodiverse landscapes of the Cristalino State Park, this eco-lodge offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of the jungle while enjoying sustainable accommodations. Explore the jungle trails, observe a myriad of wildlife species, and embark on guided canopy tours to witness the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest.

Choose one of the 18 wooden rooms or bungalows, carefully designed to blend into the environment and built using natural materials. Wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys. Take the afternoon to read in a hammock on a private terrace. Watch the sunset on the floating dock and listen to the soothing sounds of the river. 

WHY WANDER

Cristalino Lodge is perfect for wildlife lovers, and especially bird watchers (There are a total of about 586 bird species discovered in this region). Enjoying kayaking through the mysterious Cristalino river. Hike through numerous jungle trails. Visit the Lodge's own 50m observation towers. Take a guided flora & fauna boat safari. See spider and night monkeys, anteaters, sloths, otters, and have a possible encounter with a jaguar, a puma or a black panther. 

INDULGE IN

Caipirinhas. Organically grown fruits and vegetables. Fresh fish.

GETTING THERE

Take a flight from Cuiaba to Alta Floresta. An hour drive will take you to Teles Pieris River and after a short boat ride up Cristalino River you will arrive to the Lodge. 

GREEN FACTOR

Solar water heating and biological waste treatment throughout all accommodations. Cristalino Lodge has increased awareness and understanding of the importance of rainforest conservation.

*Images property of Cristalino Lodge and Kátia Kuwabara

Chez Georges

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil

THE PERSONALITIES

Artists. Musicians. (There is a state-of-the-art music production room). Design lovers. Friends and family reunions.  

MOMENTS

A tropical city oasis. Design in every detail. Finding your inspiration. 

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Between December and March, when the weather is warm and sunny.

COST

WHY STAY

Chez Georges is a luxury villa in the hills of Rio de Janeiro's Santa Teresa neighbourhood. Nestled between the golden beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, and the lush jungle that surrounds the city, Chez Georges is a unique private oasis, for anyone who appreciates architecture, music, and art. The villa can host up to 14 guests with it's 7 suites.

The villa has been built and designed by a renowned architect Wladimir Alves de Souza, showcasing Brazilian Brutalism at its best. Enjoy the 360-degree panoramic views of Sugarloaf Mountain, and Guanabara Bay; large wooden doors; floor to ceiling windows and white walls; complete with a refreshing 15 metre pool. 

The the most unique feature of Chez Georges is sound-proofed music studio, complete with a control room and recording room, facing the lush greens on the forest. 

WHY WANDER

Rio de Janeiro is one of the few cities in the world that truly has something for everyone - beaches, mountains, culture, nightlife, and history. Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Take a sunset dip at Ipanema beach. Paddleboard through Rodrigo Freitas lagoon. Get lost in Santa Teresa. Take in the views of the whole city on top of Sugar Loaf Mountain. 

INDULGE IN

Caipirinhas (Brazil's national cocktail, made with cachaça). Brazilian BBQ. Fresh fried fish and extra cold beer on the beach. Açai everything. Must visit restaurants are Garota de Ipanema (classic Brazilian), Venga (tapas), Fasano (high end), Satyricon (seafood).

GETTING THERE

Fly into Rio de Janeiro and take a taxi.

*Images property of Chez Georges

Unique Garden Hotel and Spa

Mairiporã, Brazil

THE PERSONALITIES

Travellers looking to relax, detox, and get in touch with nature. Sao Paolo weekend warriors. 

MOMENTS

Tropical gardens and birds. Fresh air and spring water. Just you and the nature. Reviving your body and mind. 

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Anytime. January is the hottest month with an average temperature of 25°C (76°F) and the coldest is June at 19°C (66°F). The wettest month is January.

COST

WHY STAY

Unique Garden Hotel and Spa is a 300 thousand square meter detox and spa retreat in Mairiporã, Brazil. Surrounding a lush Atlantic rainforest and Cantereira State Park, the sanctuary is home to many rescued animals, rare birds, and tropical plants, and is a perfect place to reconnect with yourself and nature. 

Choose a Cottage in the Mediterranean Village - the most central, close to all restaurants, spa, gym, pools, and the area for conversations and contemplation by the renowned architect Ruy Ohtake. The Flowers Cottage offer panoramic views and include a winter garden and fireplaces. The Presidential Cottage is the most spacious and exclusive with a private entrance and a courtyard.

WHY WANDER

Tour the hotel's organic vegetable gardens and greenhouses. Visit Pandora Spa for a variety of ancient and modern treatments focusing on contemplation, awakening, flow, harmony, cleansing, relaxation, and renewal. Learn about the hotel's animal conservation project through tours with onsite biologists. Visit the wolves woods, the reptile lair, the birds of prey haven, the monkey's sanctuary, and the deer fields. Learn about native Brazilian species. Play golf. Discover Tibetan Rites and Hatha yoga. Bike around the Swan Lake through the Ohtake Garden.

INDULGE IN

Organic and unique meals created by chef Daniel Aquino. Detox experiences, made with the hotel's own produce.  

GETTING THERE

Fly into Sao Paolo and arrange a transfer with the hotel.

*Photos property of Unique Garden and Spa

Felissimo EXCLUSIVE HOTEL

Brazil

THE PERSONALITIES

People who appreciate great design and secret gardens.

MOMENTS

Great design in the midst of a Brazilian rainforest. Natural Spa. Sea views and privacy.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

All year round.

COST

WHY STAY

Felissimo Exclusive Hotel is a luxurious and intimate boutique hotel nestled in the picturesque landscape of Gramado, Brazil, only 500 metres from sea.

Hidden in a tropical garden, the hotel consists of 9 suites and 2 private lofts in the heart of Brazil's stunning countryside. Guests can enjoy the serenity of the surrounding nature, relax in elegant accommodations, and savor gourmet Brazilian cuisine. The hotel's attention to detail and personalized service ensures a truly memorable and romantic experience for those seeking a peaceful getaway in a beautiful setting. Whether strolling through the lush gardens, unwinding in the spa, or sipping wine by the fireplace, Felissimo Exclusive Hotel provides a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.

WHY WANDER

Take a bike ride down the coast. Visit Florianopolis for great beaches and nightlife. 

INDULGE IN

Breakfast made to order. Fresh-baked goods. 

GETTING THERE

Fly into Florianopolis and get a taxi to Felissimo. 

*Images property of FELISSIMO HOTEL

La Ferme de Georges

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

THE PERSONALITIES

Kite Surfers. Explorers. Photographers. 

MOMENTS

The journey that is part of the destination. Surreal blue and beige landscapes. The perfect homebase after a day full of adventure. 

BEST VISITING MONTHS

The best time to come is between June and September when the lagoons are still full of water and the wind is perfect for Kite Surfing. 

COST

WHY STAY

La Ferme de Georges is an eco hotel on the edge of the surreal sand dunes and lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in the town of Atins, in northeastern Brazil. 

Built on a hill, and overlooking the river and the jungle, the lodge offers 7 casitas, appropriately named the Dune Chalet, the River Chalet, the Tree Chalet and the Park Chalet, after various natural elements in the area, and designed with local materials. Enjoy the many viewing points and hammocks throughout the property. Visit the organic garden. 

WHY WANDER

You are here to explore The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park - a unique protected area with freshwater turquoise lagoons and smooth surrealistic sand dunes. Trek the dunes on foot, horse back, or with a 4x4. Go Kite Boarding or Surfing. Enjoy the unique flora and fauna of the area. Find a unique way to document this heaven on earth.  

INDULGE IN

Fresh farm produce. Local fish. Tapiocas. Coconut desserts.

GETTING THERE

Fly into São Luis airport (SLZ), following a 3–3.5 hour drive to Barreirinhas, where you will take a boat to the small town of Atins.

*Images property of La Ferme de Georges