The aptly named Emerald or
Green Coast runs from Rio de Janeiro to Santos - with more than
a hundred beaches and numerous islands providing a weekend playground
for the rich and famous from Rio. A highlight, just 150 kms scenic
drive southwest of Rio, is Angra dos Reis. Turquoise waters, lush
vegetation and breathtaking waterfalls surround this tropical paradise.
Close by is Ilha Grande, a mountain ridge
covered in tropical forests rising out of an emerald sea and surrounded
by some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. As there are
no roads and therefore no cars, the island is still relatively undeveloped.
It is a haven of relaxation for the barefoot beachcomber and there
are magnificent views all around. There are no large resort hotels,
just informal pousada guesthouses with a handful of rooms. Most
are located within easy reach of the open air restaurants, shops
and cafes of the island’s only settlement, Abraão.
Another couple of hours down the road
will take you to Paraty (98 kms from Angra do Reis), one of Brazil’s
prettiest colonial towns. It was the chief port for the export of
gold in the 17th century and a coffee-exporting port in the 19th
century. Many hours can be whiled away browsing the boutiques and
are galleries, or buying souvenirs from the Gurani Indians who sell
their wares on the cobbled streets. For the more active a bicycle
tour into the nearby hills or a schooner trip to one of the multitude
of small uninhabited islands are a perfect way to relax.
Accommodation Emerald
Coast
Hotel do Frade & Golf Resort This 162 room hotel and 18 hole
golf course occupy a huge private estate (690 acres) on the Praia
do Frade and is strategically located between Ilha Grande Bay and
National Park of Serra da Bocaina, an environmental protection area
with beautiful waterfalls and rich in local flora and fauna. Surrounded
by mountains covered with luxuriant tropical forest, safe swimming
in a beautiful sheltered bay makes this a good choice for families.
The array of activities on offer includes horse riding, tennis,
cycling and kayaking so there is plenty to keep guests entertained
both on and off the beach.
Pestana Angra Beach Bungalows About 2½ hours drive from Rio,
this secluded hideaway and exclusive beach resort offers 27 well-appointed
independent bungalows with either amazing views of the surrounding
lush gardens or stunning vistas over the ocean. The outdoor swimming
pool and sundeck built over the water’s edge with a restaurant
and bar offer panoramic views of the ocean; alternatively enjoy
the clear blue seas by bathing at a nearby sandy cove. For the height
of luxury choose a deluxe villa where you can relax on the veranda
in your own whirlpool bath.
