Modernist cliffside lodge
The hotel runs as a living gallery of Brazilian art, stepping down stone terraces to the calm bay.
What it’s good at
Notable
Direct Ferradura beach access connects three stone-terrace pools to private excursion boats.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
the place is thoroughly contemporary. The area is known for cozy pousadas with a shabby-chic look and a casual B&B atmosphere, but here, it’s all about cutting-edge design, sustainable architecture, and carefully calibrated lighting.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Ferradura Beach sits right below the hillside, and the lively restaurants of Rua das Pedras are a short drive away.
The rooms
Each suite takes inspiration from Brazilian art and literature, opening onto private balconies above the water.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The oval pool sits on timber decking right above the cliffs, shaded by trees overlooking the bay.
The spa
Glass pavilions host sea-facing bamboo massages, and wooden soaking tubs sit on open decks above the bay.
At the table
A Galeria serves Franco-Brazilian seafood among contemporary artwork, and the outdoor bar pours cocktails beneath a flowering tree.
How it began
French owner Emmanuelle de Clermont-Tonnerre transformed her private vacation home into a hotel in 2008 to champion Brazilian culture.
The app
Like this one? There are so many more.
Swipe any city’s hotels and heart the ones you love. The app gets your taste.
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.