Casa Paraty

Located roughly equidistant between Rio and Sao Paulo (about four hours’ drive from each), Paraty is a gorgeous UNESCO town frozen somewhere in the 18th century. Think cobbled streets, cute little restaurants and galleries showcasing local artists. Hundreds of deserted beaches are just a boat ride away.

Casa Paraty's understated colonial facade tells little of the luxury behind its doors. Glorious dark-wood floors in the dining and sitting areas open out to a beautifully maintained private walled garden with pool. Upstairs, four charming bedrooms (all have private bathrooms) decorated simply but beautifully making best use of Paraty’s local arts and crafts. All rooms are air-conditioned.

Your house comes with a cook available daily between 8am and 5pm to prepare fresh, Brazilian and international food sourced from the local markets. The house also has a washer/dryer, cooker, fridge with ice maker, microwave, cable TV, wireless Internet and air-conditioning. A totally private walled garden conceals a private pool and barbecue for grilling the catch of the day. Two maids will keep things spotless and an English-speaking host is available for four hours per day to arrange excursions.

It’s easy to fall for Paraty. An excellent choice of bars, restaurants and shops are on your doorstep, and there’s a first class fish market, Brazilian cooking school and Asian Spa nearby. When you want to go further afield, speedboat and yacht charter are available locally as well as car hire; sea kayaks, sailing dingies and scuba diving can also be arranged. Surfers should head to Trinidade beach, around 20 minutes’ away by car.