Paraty is about four hours south of Rio de Janeiro by road and I would really recommend taking the trip. Far from the frenzy of Rio, Paraty's old Colonial centre is a wonderful place to while away a few days in peace. You could easily spend a weekend just strolling the cobble streets, which are pedestrian only, dipping in and out of of artisanal shops and eateries. I've heard it get's pretty busy in the summer, but when I was there it was very chilled. There's a bohemian vibe in the air and the town centre is a refuge for creatives of all sorts. Nearby there are beaches, waterfalls, jungles and plenty of places to go hiking.
Paraty, RJ
Paraty, RJ
Lopes Mendes Beach, Ilha Grande, RJ
Portugese colonial architecture - Paraty, RJ
About half way between Rio and Paraty is Angra Dos Reis which is the drop off point for the boat to Ilha Grande. You know that feeling when you're walking home from work in the dark, in mid January, in the pouring rain and you fantasize about places you'd rather be? Yeah, this is that.
Ilha Grande, RJ
