Review: Casarão Alto Mucugê, Arraial d'Ajuda, Bahia Brazil

Casarão Alto Mucugê, Arraial d'Ajuda, Bahia  "rustic bohemian chic pousada with amazing seaviews "
What an extraordinary privilege to wake up  in the Casarão Alto Mucugê- to the early morning sun streaming through the windows, to the sound of the waves breaking on the beach below, and to the uninterrupted view of the sea stretching out in front of you. But then the Casarão (or Big House) is extraordinary in many ways. Designed by world renowned architect Luciano Soares this is a place where rustic meets chic, where Portobello road kitsch meets handmade Indian fabrics and Indonesian and Brazilian handicrafts, all the evidence of owner Eloisa's world travels and eclectic taste.

Perched on top of the cliffs of Alto Mucugê, it is only a few minutes walk to the beautiful deserted beach of Pitinga in one direction and the town centre of Arraial d'Ajuda in the other. There are just 8 apartments here divided between the main house and a separate building just across the grass where many suites have varandas and sea views. In between the two and strategically situated is a heated ofuro perfect for lounging on long evenings just looking out to sea.

I came in low season when everything is quieter, the beaches deserted and the best restaurants more relaxed. But for anyone who just wants to chill the pousada is the place to be. A little piece of paradise and another wonderful addition to the Hidden "special collection".

Arraial d’Ajuda was just a sleepy Indian fishing village called Santo Amaro when it was discovered by the Portuguese in the early 1500s. And it probably would have stayed that way had it not been for the discovery of a certain statue and rumours of miracles, which encouraged visitors from far and wide.

These days Ajuda has become a mecca  of a different sort - for predominantly college students spreading out from nearby Porto Seguro, attracted by the beaches, bars, boutiques and clubbing. In high season the place buzzes with crowds of young people hanging out and loud music playing in the main street, Rua do Mucugê, and on the beach.


Not to be missed

• Pitinga beach- fabulous pink cliffs and great seafood in the beach bars

• Stuffed filet of fish on the Praia do Pescador (Fisherman's beach)

• Aipim restaurant for a dinner with a ginger caipirinha

• Igreja d’Ajuda (the main church)

Casarão Alto Mucugê & Arraial D'Ajuda, Bahia, Brazil Slideshow: Hidden’s trip from Rio de Janeiro, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Arraial d'Ajuda, Bahia (near Arraial d'Ajuda), State of Bahia was created by TripAdvisor. See another Arraial d'Ajuda slideshow. Create a free slideshow with music from your travel photos.

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