Turquoise colonial guesthouse
It runs like a private home strictly for staying guests, where afternoons wind down with tea and cakes beside the courtyard pool.
What it’s good at
Notable
Personalized flip-flops and tidal boots equip guests for Paraty's cobblestone streets.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
turquesa is Portuguese for turquoise, a hue that’s on display everywhere, from the building’s trim to its interior accents to the floor of the swimming pool.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
The house faces Paraty's pier, with the historic center's pedestrianized cobblestone alleys and colonial church squares right outside.
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The rooms
Beds are draped in mosquito netting over dark wood floors, and select master suites have whirlpool bathtubs.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
A hydromassage swimming pool sits in the central courtyard, bordered by timber decking, cushioned daybeds, and orchids.
At the table
The courtyard bar pours artisanal cachaças and chilled wine beside illuminated glass shelves set into rustic stone.
How it began
Architect Renato Tavolaro rebuilt the property in 2008, faithfully recreating an 18th-century townhouse destroyed by fire decades earlier.
Paraty
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The app
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.