Paraty
Paraty is quietly tucked away on Brazil’s verdant southeast coast between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. This captivating coastal hideaway once held the realm as chief sea port to the Portuguese who used its harbour to export gold from the mines of Minas Gerais to Portugal during the 17th century. Most of Paraty’s colonial architecture dates from this opulent era and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1966. Dotted with 65 islands and nestled at the flanks of the Serra da Bocaina mountains, most visitors are in awe of Paraty’s beautiful setting before they have even stepped foot onto its shores.
The historic centre is restricted to pedestrian-only access, excusing the occasional cyclist and horse drawn cart. Portuguese colonial architecture is rife throughout Paraty and few miss the opportunity to stroll along its cobblestone streets photographing its colourful facades, particularly Sobrado dos Abacaxis with its pineapple-crowned street lights and geometric-style guardrails and wall motifs. The splendour of its churches is an attraction in itself. The oldest church Igreja da Santa Rita is set before forested slopes overlooking the wharf and is instantly recognisable from Paraty picture postcards. You can easily spend an entire day exploring Paraty’s historical attractions and visiting nearby islands and beaches but to encapsulate its charming setting head north of to Forte Defensor Perpétuo on Morro da Vila Velha. Once the towns only defence against pirates, it offers a sweeping vista across Paraty’s pretty harbour.