Paraty on 05/04/10

The charming colonial town of Paraty is located just 125 miles from Rio de Janeiro and located on Ilha Grande Bay. A favorite among tourists and Brazilians alike, Paraty offers visitors a chance to escape into a historic town, where one can pass the day away on a beautiful beach and indulge in a tranquil and rejuvenating vacation.

Paraty, the second most important port in Brazil, especially during its Ciclo de Ouro or Golden Century, was all but forgotten after the1700s, when the more convenient port in Espiritu Santo state was opened. Thanks to this however, the town and its stunning colonial architecture were preserved, and remain to be nearly the same state as when they were originally constructed, at the time when the last gold-laden ships left for Portugal. Today, the center of town is a national historic monument that is closed to vehicles. The area boasts a number of great restaurants, bars, shops with local handmade crafts and an eccentric array of street vendors.

The main praca or plaze of Paraty is very much a wonderful place to simply wander threw the streets without any true purpose or direction. Here, visitors can enjoy cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful colonial homes and buildings the area offers.

Also located in this area, is one of the city's most impressive buildings, a church named in honor of the patron saint Nossa Senhora dos Remedios, which is definitely worth visiting while in town.

Another must see, although not man-made, is the view from just outside of town. A 500 m peak, Mamangua Sugarloaf Peak, offers one of the most spectacular views in all of Brazil. Make note that the trail is only accessible y using a trail through the Atlantic Rainforest, which is medium or difficult in level. The hike should take around an hour to an hour & half on the way up and about 45 minutes on the way down. The trailhead from below the peak is only accessible by boat from Paraty (about 90 minutes) or Paraty Mirim (about 45 minutes)

While making plans for your stay in Paraty, make sure to consider this location: Hostels In Paraty