Paradise = Ponta dos Ganchos

Ola from Brasil!  Today we say goodbye to Ponta dos Ganchos, my home in paradise for the last 2 days, but just the first 2 days on this Brazilian adventure.  It is raining for the first time in 30 days here… which means Florianopolis is sad to see us go.  But not as sorry as we are to leave!  One thing is for sure: 2 days is not enough time for this tropical beach paradise.  I'm traveling with Greg Wilshire,  friend and colleague at JG Black Book, which represents Ponta dos Ganchos, and my friend and best travel partner, Christina.

Ponta dos Ganchos truly is a special place – a secluded retreat of unspoiled beach around a quaint fishing & oyster farming village.  So not only do you have an amazing resort experience, the fresh seafood is to die for!   We arrived Tuesday afternoon and settled into our Bungalow – all Bungalows have amazing sea views but opt for the Esmeralda Bungalows for larger accommodations and a private plunge pool, plus your own sauna and huge soaking tub.  Christina and I shared a bubble bath after our massages and we could have fit 2 more people in there!  Massages and treatments are taken in the 3 partially-open-air spa bungalows (there is no full service spa); the sound of the waves crashing on the rocks below you beats any zen spa CD, that is for sure. 

On Wednesday we took a hike from the resort through the little fishing village and to a secluded beach – we were absolutely the only people there and it looked like the set of the movie The Beach.  In the summer locals visit the beach for surfing. Ponta dos Ganchos can prepare a picnic lunch to spend the afternoon in your own private paradise.

In the afternoon we took an authentic restored fishing boat (do not think yacht or speed boat!) on a cruise around the bay past the oyster farms and to a beautiful cove for an oyster and champagne treat!  There is nothing like fresh seafood you know came right from the local water that day!  The Brazilians have a delish cucumber and cilantro topping I need to know how to make for this summer’s oysters… (@Andrew Lolley)

As you can imagine in this remote and romantic setting, Ponta dos Ganchos is the backdrop for many wedding proposals, anniversaries, and special celebrations.  The tiny island off the beach is the perfect setting.   Greg, Christina, and I were lucky enough to enjoy (maybe the island’s first) romantic dinner for three!  Greg’s wife can be assured he did not propose, but if he had, who could say no on this idyllic set??  Gentlemen, take note. We enjoyed another fabulous and fresh meal with South American wine pairings.  My favorite discovery was a Brazilian sparkling wine, Cave Geisse Blanc de Blanc… now where to find this in DC…

Top Takeaways: Perfect addition / ending to a Brazilian OR Argentine itinerary (see below).  After all the sightseeing, shopping, nightlife, etc. wind down in a true paradise (and keep enjoying fabulous food!)… but keep in mind 2 nights is NOT enough!   I recommend at least 4… better 5 +.

Getting there: Florianopolis is a short 50 minute flight from Sao Paulo or an hour from Rio.  PdG is an easy 50 minute drive from Florianopolis airport.  There is also daily non-stop service to Florianopolis from Buenos Aires so you can end an Argentine adventure with a beautiful beach experience.