Villa Bahia
Villa Bahia is a charming, small hotel in the historical city of Salvador.
The hotel occupies two beautifully renovated colonial buildings and consists of 17 rooms, all themed around the various countries visited by the Portuguese explorers, from Asia to Africa and Latin America. There are two sheltered patios, one of which contains a small swimming pool, the other a fountain, ferns and palm trees where you can have breakfast and listen to exotic birds twittering in the morning.
Other facilities include a sauna, a treatment room offering massages with Amazonian essential oils, and a restaurant serving gourmet Bahian cuisine. The sights of Salvador, including the Jorge Amado Museum, the celebrated Lacerda Elevator and the Praca da Se overlooking All Saints Bay are within easy walking distance.
Why We Love It
Enjoy spectacular views of Salvador, with its belltowers, rooftops and colorful façades from the roof terrace hot tubs.
Txai
With each bungalow built individually on stilts and spread out among the coconut groves, the maximum amount of privacy and tranquillity are ensured at the Txai resort.
Each bedroom is decorated with rustic fabrics and colours and each are furnished with king size beds, outdoor showers and open air beds for massage and relaxation. Many bedrooms have private whirlpools and internet and all are equipped with air conditioning.
Guests can choose from the two different restaurants and the four different bars, where delicious typical Brazilian foods can be tried.
For the more active, activities during the day are on offer and classes in meditation and yoga can be organised. Txai resort also offers a huge range of different body therapies, ranging from Reiki to Hydromassages or they can relax on the beach located just a short walk from the resort.
A walk through Itacaré can result in guests getting stuck in to samba dancing among many other ancient Brazilian traditions that Bahia has to offer.
Why We Love It
An opportunity to make the locals laugh by watching you attempt Capoeira or more commonly known- Brazilian martial arts.
Convento do Carmo
As Brazil's first luxury historic hotel this beautifully restored convent not only boasts a sense of grandeur thanks to stone flagged floors and age-old cloisters, but beautifully incorporates subtle elements of modernity.
At only 30 minutes from Salvador Airport and based in Salvador's historic quarter of Pelhourinho in Bahia, this establishment has prided itself on having the best rooms and service in the district.
All the rooms are individually and elegantly decorated to reflect the convents past, but have been fitted with modern amenities including LCD televisions, Egyptian cotton bed and bath linens and even a pillow menu. Additionally Convento Do Carmo has a comprehensive range of facilities including a swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym and spa.
Why We Love It
The 17th Century saw Portugal and Holland fighting it out for supremacy of northern Brazil, and the Convent was the sight of one Dutch surrender before the eventual domination of the entire country by the Portuguese.
Estrela D'Agua
Estrela D'Agua is a charming pousada set within extensive tropical gardens situated just outside the hip town of Trancoso.
It prides itself on its exceptional interior design inspired by the natural beauty of the region, where rustic and luxury find harmony.
Three different types of accommodation are offered: ranging from spacious seafront bungalows, fitted with their own private pools and Jacuzzis on the veranda, to the more modest suites situated in the beautiful landscaped gardens. However all rooms are light and airy with an elegant décor, fitting with the rest of the hotel.
Estrela D'Agua utilizes its privileged position over looking Nativos Beach, with two sea front pools, a Jacuzzi, two bars (one by the sea the other in the gardens), a gym and a restaurant, serving a range of tropical and international dishes by candle light at night.
For those wishing to explore further afield the laid-back and hip town of Trancoso is only 1km away, providing a wealth of shopping experiences from antiques to boutique shops and a variety of different restaurants and bars to sample. Additionally for those who seek the more active things in life, hiking trails, horseback riding, diving, water sport and boat chartering are also available.
Why We Love It
Eating breakfast surrounded by leafy palms and with a view of Nativos Beach is a pretty great way to start any day.
Pousada Etnia
Etnia Pousada is a stylish and chic boutique hotel, cleverly combining its simple contemporary design to its natural settings.
Through the ingenious eye of its fashionista owners, Etnia is able to gel their immaculate taste, attention to detail with a personal touch creating, at its heart an underlying philosophy of understated sophistication.
Dotted around the rainforest style gardens, each of the 8 suites are decorated with subtle ethnic tones and present a different world style from Africa to the Orient. So you could feel like you are staying in Goa or the African Serengeti, even though you are in the rainforest. At the centre of this hotel is the beautiful swimming pool and open-air restaurant, where guests are able to dine on a delicious Brazilian menu in a relaxed, yet intimate and stylish atmosphere.
The newest addition to Trancosco is Etnia Clube de Mar, which also happens to be the sister property of Etnia Pousada, as well as being on the beach. The hotels have an agreement whereby guests of Etnia Pousada can use Etnia Clube de Mar's beach facilities, and Clube de Mar can use their pool.
Why We Love It
A favourite for fashion shoots, designers and those individuals who are seeking something a little bit different.
Canto das Aguas
Canto das Aguas is a charming hotel situated on rough granite rocks, in the curve of the beautiful Lencois River.
The pousada overlooks the luscious green forest of the river banks to one direction and the town of Lencois in the other. Canto das Aguas has a privileged position overlooking the Lencois river cascading down the granite waterway, giving an alluring and spectacular setting, in keeping with the feel of the Chapada Diamantina region.
The rooms have all recently been refurbished, some benefit from a river view while others look on to a central courtyard, and all are fitted with modern amenities. Additionally the hotel has a large garden and a excellent swimming pool. The hotel's restaurant serves a fusion of South American dishes inspired by local cuisine.
Uniquely the hotel was designed for minimum interference in the local landscape, and aims to tread lightly on the planet; providing comfort in the 'greenest' manner possible.
Why We Love It
The name Canto das Aguas means 'Music of the water' in Portuguese, in reference to the sounds of the nearby river.
Kiaroa
Remote, but not remotely uncomfortable, Kiaroa is one of Brazil's finest eco-lodges.
Kiaroa is situated in the Camamu Bay eco-sanctuary, a 25-minute flight south of Salvador. There are just 24 rooms and bungalows hidden away along the shoreline of what must be one of Brazil's most beautiful beaches - which is saying something.
There's a pretty eclectic blend of styles going on here, with everything from Polynesian to Balinese and African elements on show, but the vibe is unmistakably laid-back Brazilian. Standard accommodation is in 14 rooms and there are an additional 14 bungalows of varying shapes and sizes and designs.
Being so close to the sea the restaurant menus inevitably feature a good deal of the freshest seafood but for non-fish fans there is plenty of other excellent top quality fare.
Build up an appetite with a selection of activities including overland tours, quad biking, cycling, boat trips through mangroves or to remote waterfalls, snorkelling, deep sea fishing, or sailing. More sedate pleasures are available at the Armonia spa, tucked away in the forest.
Why We Love It
After a hard day sitting by the 800 square yard pool, try wallowing in the natural seawater pools by the hotel.
Alcino's Pousada
This wonderfully restored 19th century colonial mansion offers ultimate simplicity with all the charm of a boutique hotel.
Situated in the rural town of Lencois, 180 miles west of Salvador, this pousada enjoys the benefits of a town location, but within close proximity of the beautiful mountain scenery of the Chapada Diamantina National Park. It is perfect for those active types, who are able to enjoy hiking and trekking, kayaking, birdwatching, snorkelling and walking. The pousada's guest bedrooms are all different, and furnished with many period photos, antiques and a sizable book collection to peruse, creating a homely and relaxing atmosphere. With excellent and attentive service, this simple but utterly charming pousada, gives a genuine local Brazilian experience, totally different from most other stays.
Why We Love It
The real highlight of this place is the sensational Brazilian breakfast, often served by the owner himself, the eponymous Alcino. Led Zepplin's Jimmy Page concurs, writing in the visitors' book 'thank you for a truly gourmet breakfast. I now don't have to eat for the rest of the week.'
Casa do Amarelindo
Casa do Amarelindo is a charming hotel, built within in a fully restored 19th Century building in the heart of the Pelhourinho.
Spanning five floors, the hotel has its own restaurant, two bars, a fitness centre and a pool where you can cool off after a day of sightseeing. Decorated in the style of Bahia colonial culture and infused with a touch of African culture (synonymous with the style of Salvador), the ten spacious rooms combine comfort with luxury to produce an ultimate sense of wellbeing.
The unique panoramic terrace makes for breathtaking views of the Baia de Todos os Santos and its islands, the lower city and the Sao Marcelo Fort. At sunset the terrace is converted into a unique cocktail bar, where guests can enjoy the friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Ideally located in the historical district of Salvador, famous for its colorful houses, beautiful baroque churches and cobbled stone streets, Pelhourinho is within walking distance of many restaurants, bars recreational facilities, making the local town festivals and shows unmissable.
Why We Love It
This is caipirinha country, and sipping a perfectly made example of this famous local cocktail on the panoramic terrace at sunset is the ideal way to finish the day.
Villas de Trancoso
Trancoso, Bahia in the Brazilian North-east is the hippest beach destination in South America.
The villas are set in a landscaped garden, dotted with palm trees about 1500 meters from the beach front. There are 5 luxury one and two bed villas each with its own veranda and hammock. The 'on beach' location features a terraced beach area with shaded palm trees, a beach bar, cabana, white marble pool with a sunken bar and an area of comfortable beach furnishing, for when the sun gets a little bit too much.
Along with this, there is also a health and fitness area fashioned from Brazilian woods and a restaurant serving fine Brazilian cuisine throughout the day.
The endless miles of golden beaches provide the perfect opportunity for riding, kayaking, surfing, walking and cycling. And for those golf lovers, a brand new Villa Golf has been recently built overlooking the famous signature 17th green and fairway.
Why We Love It
The relaxed atmosphere and laid-back vibe means that Trancoso is quickly becoming the up and coming place; to be and be seen.
Villa Itapororoca
This luxurious private 25 acre estate, with 500m of beachfront, is just five miles from Trancoso's famous Quadrado, or main square.
The private estate includes fruit trees, forest and a river, and the access to the beach is along a beautiful flower-lined path. The bedrooms are split between three stand-alone cabanas which each house two rooms. Communal areas are housed in a separate thatched structure by the side of the 18 metre swimming pool. The sea here is crystal clear and great for swimming as it is sheltered by a nearby reef. In the evenings, Trancoso's many fashionable bars, restaurants and boutiques beckon, just ten minutes away.
Why We Love It
The chance to have a sundowner and a candle-lit dinner in the pavilion on the bridge over the river shouldn't be missed.
Tutabel
This chic yet bohemian boutique hotel sits in a beautiful beach side location near the historic fishing village of Trancoso and its authentic Brazilian atmosphere is apparent, and amplified, through the use of open spaces, outdoor lounges and colourful decor.
There are currently eight suites at Tutabel all of which boast luxury king sized beds, a private patio and offer views out over either the Atlantic Ocean or the surrounding lush vegetation.
Guest can enjoy dining (indoor or out) on Chef Bertrand Matene's Brazilian cuisine or, alternatively, gourmet picnics can be arranged for those wanting to explore the Natural Reserve of Rio with a snack in hand!
Facilities at Tutabel include an ocean front swimming pool, games room and a modern spa boasting a sauna, hot tub and massage room. If you plan on spending the morning indulging in pampering treatments (why wouldn't you?) then the free kids club will be music to your ears - drop the tots off and relax!
There's an abundance of activities in and around Tutabel to keep everyone entertained too. For the fauna and flora seekers there are walking and bike trails through the nearby Nature Reserve, for the water babies kayak rentals could see you exploring the Transoco River and the culture vultures should enjoy the lively streets and charming villas of Trancoso village.
Why We Love It
All walks through the Nature Reserve are accompanied by a guide who provides ice cold water and cool towels to keep guests refreshed as they explore.