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There are hotels for all budgets and all tastes, from beachfront pousadas offering simple rooms with barely more than a bed and a ceiling fan to boutique hotels with luxurious amenities and on-site spas. Paraty and Petrópolis have gorgeous 18th-century inns, some of which can be a bit drafty in winter.
The epitome of Santorini chic, this sparkling gem of a family-run hotel combines an intimate atmosphere with spectacular views over Búzios's fishing-boat-strewn bay, a first-rate spa, and a gourmet restaurant.
Small children are not permitted, but are welcome at the smaller sister hotel, Abracadabara.
Rooms at this gorgeous, centrally located boutique hotel are simply but stylishly appointed and have soft white linens and fresh flowers, but the crowning glory is an infinity pool that has stunning views over the bay and out to sea.
Arguably one of the most enthralling places to stay in Paraty, this spacious, expertly run colonial guesthouse combines exquisite design with a first-class spa, all-day breakfast, and a resplendent library that celebrates Paraty's literary heart. The spacious rooms, decorated with book-themed artworks, have tasteful, brightly colored contemporary fixtures, but what really makes a stay here special is the large heated pool in the courtyard.
Book well in advance if you want to stay during the town's famous literary festival, held in July, as this is the place Brazil's creative elite clamor to stay.
Occupying a tastefully restored 1875 neoclassical building and smaller outlying houses amid Petrópolis's historic center, this elegant hotel provides stylish, comfortable accommodations. The buildings, which retain many original features, were constructed according to the wishes of Princesa Isabel and the gleaming-white setting has lost none of its aesthetic appeal over the years, and the palatial grounds are immaculately maintained (young children will love the gardens and fishpond). Nice touches include the chocolate crowns placed nightly on guests' pillows, and the fact that breakfast can be enjoyed at any time or place.
Set on the river inside a private eco-park, this resort hotel is a favorite with families and couples looking to relax with a wealth of services and activities at their disposal. Inside Parque Perequê, this resort hotel has boat service to its private beach across the river and lays on breakfast, dinner, and activities such as stand-up paddleboard, boat trips, kayaking, waterskiing, fishing, rafting, and bird-watching walks with a local expert.
An inviting warmth pervades this historic villa, which sits right on the edge of Geribá Beach. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, the pool area has sweeping views out to sea, and the excellent restaurant serves lunch by the pool or in the interior courtyard and garden.
Its location right on the beach at scenic Praia do Bonfim combined with the friendly staff make this simple hotel a great option for its price range. Many of the spacious rooms have sea views, and guests can take to the water on complimentary kayak rides and paddle out to a small, whitewashed church on a nearby island.
