Paraty
A colonial gem on Brazil’s beautiful and lush Costa Verde
A combination of its immaculately restored historic centre, vibrant contemporary art and literature scene and bustling quayside has made Paraty perhaps one of the most attractive of Brazil’s UNESCO listed colonial towns.
Paraty, which was founded by Portuguese colonisers in 1667, developed into a major port for exporting gold from Minas Gerais during much of the 18th century, but problems with piracy and the growth of Rio de Janeiro witnessed a rapid decline in its fortunes. As a result its historic centre survived almost unscathed into the twentieth century, allowing it to be restored into the living museum which visitors are able to enjoy today.
The white painted houses with colourful window surrounds front onto the original cobbled streets and present endless photo opportunities, with their intricate ironwork and curious masonic markings. Some of these contain excellent small hotels and restaurants, good enough to be a destination in their own right.
The atmospheric ‘Centro Historico’, where no cars are permitted, is easily explored on foot. Stop for a drink or an ice cream at one of the outside bars, and pick up some local artwork or souvenirs at the little shops lining the streets. It is well worth taking a day or two to explore the coastline by chartering a schooner from the quayside to visit one of the secluded sandy beaches or waterfalls nearby. Stop for a delicious seafood lunch at one of the simple fisherman restaurants along the coast, and keep your eye out for the tiny tamarind monkey and giant turtles. If you want more beach time you can hire a car to the beach at Trinidade with its lively beach bars and clear rock pools. There are also bird-watching opportunities nearby.
Once a year Paraty hosts the famous Paraty Literature festival – a popular cultural event combining the arts and literature, which has been running since 2003. The event has Paraty filled with festival visitors and famous Brazilian writers attending the many talks, workshops and exhibitions held here during 5 days each year.
Paraty is an essential stop-off point when travelling by road between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.
In the archipelago of Paraty we operate sailing charters. Watch our film here
To learn more about a visit to this historical gem and its outstandingly beautiful colonial accommodation, give us a call or send us a message.