RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Travelling to Rio de Janeiro is a dream come true for many, and one of the best vacation and holiday ideas you may ever have. You can enjoyably remain in the capital, visiting and getting to know the most famous sights such as Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf and the beaches of Ipanema and Barra da Tijuca.
On the other hand, you could also explore the interior of this amazingly beautiful state, and discover unique places and surroundings away from the metropolitan hustle and bustle.
For those preferring this second option, we have prepared a list of the best resorts in Rio de Janeiro. Whichever you visit, you will enjoy your free time without stress, appreciating the comfort and exploring the varied natural beauty found in the state. After each recommended resort is a link to its website for further information.
Bon voyage!
Vila Galé Eco Resort Angra
Known as a refuge from urban life, Vila Galé Eco Resort Angra is located in Angra dos Reis on Rio’s south coast, and is one of the best hotels in Rio de Janeiro to rest and get in touch with nature. The resort follows sustainable practices, since it is located in the middle of the Atlantic forest, facing the salt water of the sea. There you can enjoy a spa, a massage or a Turkish bath, and then eat well in the five restaurants. Resorts Website
Village Le Canton, Teresópolis
If you like to celebrate long holidays during the year, the Swiss-themed Village Le Canton in Vargem Grande, Teresópolis is one of the best resorts in Rio to stay. The hill country regularly promotes local events such as parties and game activities, so it’s a great place to go with kids. Other areas are only for entertainment, for example the water park, the medieval castle, the sports complex, and the equestrian center. Resorts Website
Eco Resort Serra Imperial, Nova Friburgo
One of the resorts in Rio de Janeiro that allows you to disconnect from everything is the Eco Resort Serra Imperial. There you can experience “radical” activities in the mountains and waterfalls, but if you are less adventurous, you can just visit and walk the surrounding trails. In addition to all this, saunas, whirlpools, game room and gyms are available for everyone’s use. Resorts Website
Hotel Portobello Resort and Safari, Mangaratiba
Have you ever thought about having a Safari right in your backyard? The Hotel Portobello Resort and Safari on the state’s south coast offers you this experience. The resort hosts more than 500 animals freely ranging its grounds and offers tours so guests can meet camels, ostriches, monkeys, llamas and more. It also offers creature comforts such as luxurious apartments and restaurants. Resorts Website
Quinta da Paz Resort, Itaipava
Set in the middle of the mountains north of Rio is Quinta da Paz Resort, one of the best hotels in Rio de Janeiro. The word that defines this place is comfort. Even with luxurious rooms and suites, the environment has not lost its farmlike touch, with simple rustic decorations. The great strength of this hotel is its delightful gastronomy. Resorts Website
Promenade Angra
The Angra Promenade on Rio’s south coast is of a franchise chain with several locations in Rio and Minas Gerais. For this reason, many visitors will already know the accommodations. For those who don’t, the resort offers luxury suites and many leisure environments such as spas, massage rooms, swimming pools, and beaches. In addition, the hotel accepts pets without problems and provides local transfers if necessary. Resorts Website
Hotel Ferradura Resort, Búzios
Surrounded by nature but having complete infrastructure, the Hotel Ferradura Resort is in Búzios on the eastern coast of the state. As well as the best facilities in Búzios, Ferradura offers leisure services such as swimming pools, hydro-massages, children’s playgrounds and a great variety of gastronomic options. One important differential here is the variety of accommodations available — visitors can choose between simpler or more luxurious rooms. Resorts Website
Vassouras Eco Resort, Vassouras
The Vassouras Eco Resort is one of the resorts in inland Rio de Janeiro that is definitely worth a visit. The place has everything you need, from relaxing activities in the spa to adventurous ecotourism in the waterfalls and trails around the historical Vale do Café. You can choose a massage by yourself or try a paintball game with friends. But another strong point of the hotel is that nightlife is also present – there is both a nightclub and a small cinema. Resorts Website
Caminho Real Resort, Petrópolis
The Caminho Real Resort offers you the chance to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere, with its neo-colonial-style chalets set in the middle of highland nature. Ecotourism is among the great attractions, such as tree climbing, zip line and pedal boats on the lake. But the option of just enjoying the environment is also viable, with the restaurants and various events in separate halls. Resorts Website
Búzios Beach Resort, Búzios
Another of the best hotels on Rio de Janeiro’s eastern coast is the Búzios Beach Resort. The establishment is located only 15 minutes from the city center with all the tourist attractions, but it also has many activities for those who just want to remain indoors, for example games room, archery, sports courts and mini golf. The resort usually offers promotions and typical holiday celebrations at festive times of the year. Resorts Website
Porto Marina Mont Blanc Resort, Itacuruçá
Another outstanding franchise resort in Rio is Porto Marina Mont Blanc Resort Itacuruçá. The location is known for hosting large events and having a meeting room. However, entertainment is also guaranteed since it is close to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande, both destinations that are visited by thousands of tourists. Resorts Website
Bomtempo Resort, Itaipava
Nestled in Rio de Janeiro’s nearby hill country, Bomtempo Resort brings a feeling of being on a farm to its guests. The rustic environment is ever present in the furniture and furnishings; it’s a great place to idle in a hammock or take a walk around the lake. If you want to go with children, several swimming pools are available, besides activities such as climbing and sports court. Resorts Website
Jabaquara Beach Resort, Paraty
Located in historic Paraty, along Rio’s south coast, the Jabaquara Beach Resort is one of the best hotels in Rio de Janeiro because it brings all the architecture of colonial Brazil into its surroundings. Inspired by the town, the accommodations are all traditional, yet the resort also offers swimming pools and is close to beaches and restaurants in the busy tourist region. Resorts Website