Casa do Dean
Arraial d'Ajuda, near Trancoso, Brazil
New York loft meets Brazilian rainforest in a funky, chunky beach house just a stroll from the sea (sleeps 4-10)
Built as a 21st-century dream house for a celebrity photographer,
lapping at the edge of the rainforest yet only a 5-minute stroll
from the beach (and a 10-minute stride uphill to the party town of
Arrail d'Ajuda), Casa do Dean gets top marks on all counts. The
forested valley views are far-reaching, the design is exciting -
great swathes of glass open to large wooden verandas on stilts -
and the comfort is supreme. Imagine white polished concrete floors,
lofty Brazilian hardwood ceilings, 1960s movie posters and Art Deco
lamps from Argentina. The décor is full of artistry and
light.
Walk in one direction for Brazilian beach action and snorkelling;
head in the other for some of the chic-est bars, designer clothes
shops, restaurants and nightclubs on the Discovery Coast. The
atmosphere is private, exclusive and laid-back, and you get 5 large
bedrooms with ensuite showers, an infinity pool looking
out over the jungle, and every little luxury from iPod docks and
soft pillows to the daily services of a maid. Casa do Dean is ideal
for those who want to escape, without venturing too far from the
madding crowd.
Reviewed by Meg Baber
Last updated 25 October 2011
Highs
- You get the luxury of your own architect-designed pad, with incredibly comfortable beds, and the bonus of a daily maid service
- There are great views across the rainforest to the sea from the decks (one with an infinity pool)
- It's secluded, yet only a short walk (uphill on the way home) from several beaches, and from one of Bahia´s liveliest coastal tourist towns
- The on-call English manager will make sure your visit goes smoothly
- A car is not essential; you can hire bikes and beach buggies
Lows
- The nearest beach is crowded with beach bars, hecklers and hassling hippies during high season, so you must stray a few kilometres further for peace and pristine sands
- In high season (December to March), the sound of music from beach parties can drift up into the early hours
- There's a minimum stay of 3 nights (longer in peak season)
A New York-style loft but with a Brazilian touch...
Conde Nast Traveller (UK)Casa do Dean: Read more press reviews
