Strolling through Paraty feels a little like you’re revisiting a bygone era – horse-drawn carts jolt their way along cobblestone streets, boats hover patiently on pretty shores and life centers around a cluster of white-stone houses etched with Masonic symbols. It’s about switching off and tuning out here, and with 300 beaches, acres of waterfall-laden rainforest, and a network of hiking and cycling trails all within easy reach, you won’t struggle to do so.
History and culture are abundant in this colorful Brazilian port town, which was at the center of the gold rush in the 18th century. A hundred years later, it fell into a state of abandon with just 600 inhabitants, but the region found new life in the 1970s following the creation of a new highway. Today, it combines its rich history with a flourishing culture scene featuring eclectic boutiques, cozy pousadas, and lively bars that radiate unexpected energy when night falls.
Outside town, you’ll find an abundance of natural attractions, including remote islands and lush, emerald rainforest – read on to uncover some of the highlights.
Wander the Colonial Streets
Paraty’s historic, pedestrian-only center is worthy of exploration, with rows of white-stone buildings lining giant cobblestone streets, each adorned with brightly colored door frames. Cars aren’t allowed here, creating a serene atmosphere as you wander along its giant, wobbly cobbles. There’s a range of historic sites to explore, including the 17th-century Our Lady of the Remedies church, built with mustard yellow stone originally shipped from Portugal in exchange for gold.
The most intriguing aspects are the mysterious symbols that adorn many of the buildings, harking back to the 18th century when Masons came seeking freedom of thought in this isolated fishing village. Hourglasses, triangles, and other messages relating to the magic number three mark the houses occupied by these illustrious figures, and today this scene remains largely unchanged, with buildings across the historical center protected by IPHAN.
The town takes on a different face at high tide, when water rushes in from the sea and locals cross over mini bridges to navigate the cobbled paths. Occasionally, you might even spot a crab ducking in and out of the cracks.
Experience Live Brazilian Music
Paraty is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and music is the soul of the town come evening. A number of bars and restaurants host bands, including Paraty 33, a cavernous, wood-beamed venue that fills every night. This establishment serves traditional Brazilian dishes alongside live acoustic music and other genres in a cozy ambiance. Just around the corner, Margarida Cafe is also lively, featuring a busy schedule of performers playing everything from tango and jazz to samba and bossa nova.
However, you don’t even have to find a venue to hear the strumming of guitars – every evening, the main square fills with passers-by dancing samba, while buskers entertain. If you’re not inclined to dance, simply watching is just as captivating.
Ride a Jeep into the Rainforest
If you seek adventure beyond the town, the forest beckons. Among the region’s most enchanting sights is the Serra da Bocaina National Park, positioned within the Atlantic Rainforest and filled with breathtaking scenery that ranges from lush, rolling hills to magnificent, cascading waterfalls (over 80 in total).
Various operators in town offer jeep tours to explore this captivating area, including Paraty Adventure, which takes you to the Pedra Branca (White Stone) fall, a frothing plume of white water cascading down beige rocks. The falls are located near two traditional cachaça distilleries where the local specialty drink ‘Gabriela’ – sweet cachaça flavored with clove and cinnamon – is served with the warm hospitality only Brazilians can provide.
Walk the Historic Gold Trail
Elsewhere in the rainforest, you’ll find the Caminho do Ouro, or the ‘Gold Trail,’ which first placed this town on Brazil’s map. Constructed by enslaved individuals in the 18th century, this iconic, stone-paved route was used to transport gold from mines in the south to Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, establishing Paraty as a key commercial center (and the primary port for shipping gold to Portugal).
Presently, operators lead guided walks along sections of the trail, offering valuable insights into its fascinating history. The trail is now a collection of stones peeping out from beneath layers of tree bark and vibrant leaves.
Sail to Castaway Islands
More than 65 islands dot the waters surrounding Paraty, and exploring them by schooner or speedboat is one of the most favored activities for visitors.
The Saco do Mamanguá fjords are particularly enchanting, showcasing green-carpeted hills and shimmering jade waters surrounding islands that appear distinctly castaway-like. Tour operators offer half-day speedboat excursions whisking you to three of the area’s highlights – Praia do Engenho, Praia Ponta do Costa, and Praia do Cruzeiro – each a haven with tropical palms lining the shallow, snorkel-friendly waters.
Visit Praia do Sono
For a secluded alternative, venture to Praia do Sono. The beach is reachable via a 1.5-hour walking trail through the forest from Laranjeiras (buses available from Paraty), but the effort is well worth it. Imagine a crescent of pristine, talcum-white sand nestled between majestic mountains and turquoise seas, nearly empty except for a few determined adventurers.
Get a Massage with Mountain Views
Rio State isn’t averse to some rainfall, so if you’re seeking indoor entertainment, consider visiting the Shambhala Spa. Set in a tranquil setting overlooking the mountains and Jabaquara Bay, this peaceful, Balinese-style retreat offers a range of Asian-inspired massages in calming, fragrant surroundings. There’s even a gazebo in the gardens for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.
This setting provides a perfect conclusion to an active day, and the massages are as close to authentic Bali as one can get in Brazil – enhanced with a touch of South American charm.
