Room Details
At Vila d’este, one of Búzios’ finest hotels, guests are greeted at the front gate by a bronze statue of Brigitte Bardot sitting on a suitcase, gazing out to sea. First opened in 1991, this intimate hotel has built its reputation on ‘handmade hospitality’ and it’s not just a tagline. There’s a real feeling of authenticity – luxury without the pretence, effortlessly elegant.
The staff are warm and the service is slick and seamless. The heart of the property is the sunny sitting room which offers comfortable couches and plenty of books, as well as dazzling views framed by long, white billowing drapes. Large French doors open out onto the sun terrace. Think less hotel and more luxury home by the sea.
Vila d’este – the rooms
With only 19 apartments, Vila d’este impresses like a grand hotel while maintaining its intimacy. The location is ideal – close to the busy centre without being part of it. Rooms have all the premium trimmings you’d expect, some offer ocean views, others private gardens. You’ll sleep soundly – thick pillows, soft sheets, peace and quiet are all in plentiful supply.
All rooms have air conditioning, satellite TV, telephone, minibar, electronic safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, Trousseau bed and bath linens and premium amenities from L’Occitane.
The guest experience
There are two pools to choose from – one cold and one warm. Both are the perfect places to sip a cocktail and watch the sun slowly slip into the bay. The warmer of the two has an adjoining steam room – you don’t even need to get out of the water to use it, just plunge underneath the glass and you’re there.
Meals in the restaurant are truly decadent, with superb food and views to match. An afternoon massage by the pool is not to be missed. When night falls, the hotel becomes a romantic sea of candlelight and soft breezes. Inside the fireplace crackles, outside the palm trees glow in the moonlight.
Prices start at R$605 per night during low season (April – mid-December) for a garden villa and R$1,000 per night during high season (December – March) with a 2-night minimum.
