Just 3.5 hours from Rio de Janeiro, Ibitipoca Reserve is an inspiring, ambitious 4,000 hectare private conservation and sustainability initiative. The centrepiece is Fazenda do Engenho, one of Brazil’s finest small hotels. Dating from 1715, the traditional farmhouse was rebuilt in 2006 and has eight sumptuous guest rooms, restaurant, Spa, sauna and hydro-massage pool. The stable has Mangalarga and Anglo-Arabian horses and guests set off on horse, foot or 4 x 4 vehicle to explore the extraordinary natural surroundings.

Fasano Rio is situated in the heart of Ipanema, right on the beach and is a member of ‘The Leading Small Hotels of the World’. The wooden, glass and marble accents combined with breathtaking views and luxurious facilities, makes the Fasano Rio the go-to hotel for Rio’s most demanding guests. All 89 rooms have balconies with a beach view and the rooftop features a private leisure area for guests with a swimming pool, a steam sauna, and a fitness centre with a beautiful view of Ipanema beach.

The Santa Teresa Boutique Hotel is one of the few hotels with a government trust for historic preservation in the city, and has gone through a long restoration process, aimed at preserving the mansion’s neo-colonial style. Settled amidst ample patios, gardens and terraces, the hotel has 42 personalized rooms with balconies boasting panoramic views on more than half. There is a swimming pool, “cachaça” bar, restaurant with a view over the Guanabara Bay, and a spa.

Opened in 1923, this elegant building is one of the most traditional and luxurious hotels in Rio de Janeiro. There are a total of 241 rooms that are finished to a very high standard and there is a large outdoor swimming pool.