Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Pontas Dos Ganchos: The Ultimate Beach Retreat in Southern Brazil




Fresh off a four-day weekend in Southern Brazil and I will go on record saying that Pontas Dos Ganchos Exclusive Resort is one of the absolute best resorts in the entire world. Not that I've visited everywhere (it's on my list!), but I've hotel-hopped around the globe enough to know an A+++ experience when I land there. From the moment we arrived and were greeted by the GM Julio Jost to the genuine friendliness doled out by the entire staff during our entire stay, I simply could not stop snapping photos of the insanely gorgeous setting.


This clearly is a resort designed with romance in mind. Kids under 18 are not allowed, and each of the 25 "Bangalos" are designed a deux (oversized double rain showers, ocean view Jacuzzis & the private deck with plunge pool are a few clues).

In addition to the scenic beauty from the private "Praia" (beach) to the beachside restaurant, the attention to detail at Pontas Dos Ganchos is over-the-top. The staff pays close attention to when guests vacate their bungalow for meals/activities and coordinate their housekeeping efforts so as never to disturb them while en suite (a pet peeve of mine!).

As a Relais & Chateaux property, the quality of the food is outstanding. And lest you worry that the extensive tasting menus may be a bit on the fancy side, rest assured that simple comfort foods (burgers, fried fresh calamari, steaks, grilled fish, bacon & eggs) are all available upon request in the restaurants or in room. For a truly romantic treat, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a "Private Retreat" complete with a couples' massage, Champagne, a rose-petal bath followed by a course-by-course dinner with wine served on your private patio. It's truly the ultimate in R&R&R (rest, relaxation & romance!).

Speaking of ultimate, be sure to request the private helicopter transfers to and from Pontas Dos Ganchos to Florianopolis Airport. The scenic 20-minute flight is breathtaking and will afford you the luxury of one additional hour on property as the heliport is on-site.

Ponta Dos Ganchos is easily reached via a short nonstop flight from Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paolo. Book through Elite Travel International to receive special VIP treatment, breakfast inclusive rates and an extra-special welcome from our Brazilian friends who run my #NewFavoritePlace. For more information and to book, contact me via email elitetravelgal@gmail.com or phone: 310-826-2939.