One of Rio de Janeiro’s best kept secrets, with magnificent views of the city, the Santa Teresa Hotel provides a taste of authentic Rio. Surrounded by colonial mansions, museums, artists’ ateliers and Rio’s only remaining tramway, the setting is charming and picturesque; high-rise buildings and traffic are replaced by red-tiled rooftops, cobblestone streets and exuberant nature.

We talked to Nelly Pager, Sales and Marketing Manager at the hotel.

What can you tell us about the area?

It is definitely trendy and exclusive. Perched high on Santa Teresa hill, the hotel has spectacular panoramic views of the city and guests can enjoy the haven of tropical gardens unique to Rio. The area surrounding the hotel is charming and authentic, and the historic tramway goes right past the hotel’s main entrance. What can you tell us about the hotel design?

It is based on a ‘tropical chic’ concept, bringing together Brazil’s rich past and dynamic present, and using only the finest natural elements: luxury linens, wild cottons, coconut and banana tree fibres, tropical woods, Portuguese tiles, slate and burnt cement. Design furniture and art by renowned contemporary Brazilian designers and artists, such as Sergio Rodriguez, Zemog, Studio Vitty, Rock Lane, Carassa and Oficina de Agosto, blend easily with restored colonial architecture. The hotel’s Térèze Restaurant is casual, yet sophisticated and makes use of recycled materials, including demolition wood furniture and restored, treated canvas, creating an ‘eco-chic’ ambiance. And, just across from the restaurant, the Bar dos Descasados has a ‘bohemian boutique’ aura with a red and white tiled floor, brick arches and comfortable, over-sized armchairs, sofas and Dorsel lounge beds.

What makes the hotel unique?

Staying at the Santa Teresa is like travelling through the different states and times of Brazil. Pieces of art from all over the country and from all eras can be found in the hotel, and the panoramic view is unique and truly the best view in Rio.

What would you recommend?

Enjoying a Caipirinha cocktail while looking across the bay after a tri-dimensional anti-stress massage at the Spa, and a ride on the famous tram of Santa Teresa!

To book a stay at the Santa Teresa Hotel, click here. For more information about Splendia or to see our worldwide collection of unique Luxury & Character Hotels, click here.