Pretty Villa Raphael sits in a coconut grove behind a crescent-shaped beach on the southern shore of the Búzios peninsula. It’s a low-key and discreet colonial-style adult-only (over 15s) property with its own spacious gardens and is composed of two elegant, at the same time homely, two-storey buildings.
The cleanly minimalist guest rooms, done out in sparkling white, open onto the flowery gardens: super deluxe rooms have a balcony with views through the palm-dotted lawns towards the ocean. Engage the beach service for a few hours lazing on the sands or take a dip in the lovely pool just a few steps from the beach. Should you feel like expending any energy you could head for the hotel’s own tennis court. After your game you may be tempted to book a relaxing massage; then you might round off your day in the convivial bar which concocts chilled tropical fruit drinks and cocktails. Food is served in the hotel’s own informal al fresco restaurant, with a full meal service where breakfast and afternoon tea are gastronomic highlights.
A shuttle service operates to the town of Búzios itself which is just 2km away; there you’ll find a full range of eateries, clubs and boutiques.