The Barracuda Hotel & Villas – Brazil
The mantra at the Barracuda Hotel & Villas is “the art of living” – something that is apparent in every aspect of this barefoot luxury retreat. Tucked away and secluded in 21 hectares of rainforest, overlooking a tiny sandy cove, and the Atlantic beyond, it’s a beguiling blend of uber stylish comfort and a cool boho vibe. Its owners have taken inspiration from Brazilian rustic chic and Scandinavian simplicity, celebrating all things local.
And they’ve built a team that go out of their way to make you wish you’d booked for longer. There’s plenty to do to keep you busy, but you’ll probably just be happy sitting on the deck, soaking it all in. It’s truly a beach retreat with soul.
At A Glance
Retreat
Why We Love It:
For its secluded feel, whilst being a heartbeat away from chic beach town of Itacaré.Style:
Contemporary Scandi meets rainforest chic.Location:
On the Praia do Resende in Itacaré, Bahia Province – a 1.5 hour drive from Ilhéus / Bahia-Jorge Amado Airport.Rooms:
24 light and airy suites and villas with Atlantic viewsSwimming:
A long infinity pool on the ocean facing deck.Children:
Families are incredibly welcome.Accessibility:
There is limited accessibility for guests with mobility issues.Price:
Available on requestrooms
Built from native wood and filled with designer furniture, objects and artwork from local indigenous craftspeople, and framed with vast windows for soaking in the view, the rooms and suites are stylishly minimalist in design. The Suites accommodate two guests, and a cot or an extra bed can be added for a child. The villas are very private and simply stunning, sleeping from eight guests up to 16.
food
The catch of the day is the main event here, and not only are the ingredients local, but the chefs are too – producing outstanding Bahian flavours from sea and land. The rooftop bar is the only place to be for sundowners…
activities
The Barracuda is all about R&R. For years travelers have come to this stretch of the Bahian coast for surfing, its relaxed Afro Brazilian vibe, and very relaxed pace of life. You might just plump for spending your days by the pool doing really very little. Maybe join one of the yoga sessions each morning, or some meditation on the Atlantic deck. If you feel like exploring, the surrounding rainforest has numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. Surfing is a way of life here – if you’ve never tried it, take a class.
Paddle board or canoe through the mangroves, or take a boat along the Rio de Contas – do this in the evening for sunset cocktails and a fish supper.
family
There’s quite a grown up vibe here, but children are made very welcome, with a Family Gathering Programme that includes a host of curated activities, from boat trips to musical evenings and photography sessions. There are interconnecting suite options, and the villas offer space and privacy. Babysitting services are also available.
sustainability
The eco-friendly design and build of the property are low impact, in keeping with its surroundings. Water is heated using solar power, there is no single use plastic and 10% of profits go to local social, cultural and environmental initiatives.
Location
The Barracuda Hotel & Villas
On the Praia do Resende in Itacaré, Bahia Province – a 1.5 hour drive from Ilhéus / Bahia-Jorge Amado Airport.
