Description
Completely off the beaten track on the scarcely discovered tropical island idyll of Boipeba, Pousada Mangabeiras is an utterly charming small pousada that makes for the most authentic of Brazilian beach escapes. Perched on a small headland among cashew and mangaba trees, with incredible 360-degree views of the beaches, ocean and neighbouring Tinhare Island, there are just nine bungalows that offer complete privacy and comfort.
Pousada Mangabeiras also has strong environmental commitment. There are solar-powered showers, and not a single tree was cut down in its construction. For guests looking for peace and tranquility Pousada Mangabeiras is a wonderful place to de-stress and soak up a unique island atmosphere that is all but lost elsewhere in Brazil. The pool area is delightful and hummingbirds can often be seen feeding on the riotous tropical flowers.
The hotel can arrange a boatman to pick you up and take you round the island, stopping off to snorkel among the coral reefs, try oysters from the mangroves or hop off at magnificent unspoilt beaches such as Morere for a lobster lunch and cold beer. Alternatively go with one of the local guides to explore the orchids and forest of the interior. Dolphins and turtles can often be spotted in the warm waters offshore.
A twenty-minute beach stroll from the property is the village of Velha Boipeba, a timeless gem that displays the real Brazil. Here are sandy streets, peaceful and modest locals, a centuries-old blue church, a few restaurants and bars, and the odd evening football game in the main square or capoeira demonstration. Nothing very much ever happens here, which is precisely its charm.
Accommodation
Pousada Mangabeiras offers guests 9 bungalows and master bungalows with flat-screen TV, DVD (master bungalows also have a jacuzzi), solar heated water and private verandah with hammock to relax and unwind and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean
Childcare
Children are welcome but there are no specific facilities
Facilities
Pousada Mangabeira features a swimming pool, restaurant, games room and offers massages and acupuncture
Activities
Activities at Pousada Mangabeiras include hiking, horseback riding, capoeira workshops, snorkeling, and boat trips to distant beaches such as Ponta dos Castelhanos, Cova da Onca or Garapua
When to travel
Temperatures in Bahia vary little from month to month and it's warm all year round, with average highs hovering around 30°C. April to July is the wettest season (though it can rain at any time) and June to September bring slightly cooler evenings. Salvador goes mad during Carnival (February or March depending on the year) - more than 2 million party-goers hit the streets for a colourful riot of dancing and drinking - expect prices to hike and availability to fall dramatically.
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Average time to visit
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Location and directions
Boipeba, Brazil
Situated on Boipeba Island, to the southwest of Salvador- and south of Morro de Sao Paulo, on Brazil's Bahia Coast.
How to get there
A 30-minute flight from Salvador followed by a 15-minute boat transfer.
