A tour of Buzios, Brazil's trendy destination

Armação dos Búzios, ideal surroundings and perfect climate!

Buzios has a naturally enchanting setting thanks to its geographical location.

Located in a lakeland area in the state of Rio de Janeiro, not far from the Serra do Mar coastal mountain range, this peninsula has a pleasant climate all year round. This micro-climate makes it one of the sunniest seaside resorts in Brazil.

The rock formations of this peninsula are 520 million years old. It is often called the “Brazilian Himalayas” because at this period it formed a gigantic mountain range similar to the Himalayas of today. Two natural viewpoints : the Forno and João Fernandes, offer spectacular views of Buzios and its beaches like a lace around the coastline, floating into the sea.

You will be enchanted by this rugged coastline of 23 beaches, each with very different atmospheres, some have a calm warm sea coming from the equator, others colder and more agitated seas from the South pole, but all have waters as clear as crystal. With such a good choice, there are many options and everyone will find what they are looking for and come away with special memories.

If you want to relax in the sunshine for example, then you will enjoy the Azeda beach located in a nature reserve surrounded by beautiful countryside. If you prefer fun and activities, the Geriba beach is where surf and thrills are guaranteed. For lunch in an enchanting setting, choose the Joao Fernandes beach with its seaside beach restaurants, a chance to savour the local dishes in a splendid place with superb views.

Charming pousadas, trendy bars and chic restaurants

Originally a small fishing village, Buzios has matured into a magnificent seaside resort, famous the world over.

This popularity is particularly thanks to the actress Brigitte Bardot, who fell in love with its picturesque landscapes in the 1960s and who popularised Buzios with the local elite. Since then, artist workshops, bars, restaurants, shops and pousadas have sprung up in this village, creating a fun and relaxing atmosphere. The pedestrian streets and especially the sea walk called “Orla Bardot” in memory of the famous muse, live to the rhythm of the trendy vacationers of the Brazilian jet set. If you are a night owl, you will enjoy the many discos, as well as the concerts and festivals that abound in summer.

During the daytime many water sports are available, deep sea diving, snorkelling, surfing and wind surfing, kite surf or water skiing as well as boat rides around the peninsula. All you have to do is choose!

Along with the Brazilian Saint-Tropez, traditional life continues. . .

Although tourism is today the largest economic activity for Buzios, fishing is still a stable income for the local population.

Just like the small villages on the rest of the coast, some of the Buzios locals continue to use ancient techniques for fishing and agriculture and so pass down the traditions and maintain the authentic charm of the peninsula.

For a long time the men and women here survived thanks to whaling, so the legends of this era are many. Although whaling has ceased today to protect these majestic animals, the boats still set off to sea each day to bring back delicious fresh fish and other sea food. It is often the catch of the day that you will find on the local restaurant menus. Whilst on the topic, Ossos beach (bones beach) get its name from the ancient burial of whale bones there.