Baroque & Bohemian Brazil: Minas Gerais, Rio & Buzios

Included in the itinerary - Inhotim, both the botanical garden and museum of contemporary art, which hosts large artistic projects. A true conservatory of rare tropical species, it brings together the largest collection of palm trees on the planet and, scattered in lush vegetation, the works of generations of artists.
Then it's off to Ouro Preto (65 miles or about 2 hours) through the hills of Minas Gerais, along the way passing through the cities of Itabirito, Cachoeira do Campo or Mariana, founded in the 17th century, which have many preserved Baroque buildings. On arrival in Ouro Preto, accommodation for two nights in a beautiful 18th century house, furnished with antique furniture.

Here, all that glitters is gold - the heritage of the 18th, when the city was the mining centre of the Portuguese Crown. Walk through its squares and steep streets, admiring its colourful houses.
Things to see and experience - The thirteen Baroque churches, witnesses of the city's splendid past - the Mineralogy Museum: a dizzying collection of precious stones, diamonds and coloured stones, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, aquamarine and topaz - the Casa da Moeda (mint) - the municipal theatre, established in 1770 and the oldest functioning theatre in Latin America: four floors, 350 seats, gilding everywhere. Don't leave Ouro Preto without sampling the cuisine, and particularly the typical 'feijao tropeiro', pork shank, chopped cabbage, eggs, onions, grilled cassava flour, and brown beans.

Then off to Tiradentes via the Estrada Real, the Royal Route which, in the 18th century, made it possible to transport gold from Minas Gerais to the port at Paraty and to Rio de Janeiro, to the court of the Portuguese King.
On the way - The small colonial town of Congonhas do Campos and its UNESCO listed Basilica do Senhor Bom Jesus de Matosinhos - Sao Joao del Rei, with its numerous Baroque churches and colonial homes.
Spend two nights in an old 18th-century building in the historic centre of the city.

An air of rebellion still clings to this city, once trampled by slaves and then by the abolitionist leader who bequeathed it his name. A lovely colonial city - probably the most romantic in the region - all white, nestled in a circle of hills. Churches and mansions bear witness to a magnificent past, where you can admire their facades and finely carved altars.
Must-see - The 'Chafariz' Saint Joseph, the Matriz de Santo Antonio, for its remarkable architecture, and the view of the city from its esplanade, the museum of Padre Toledo.

Flight to Rio. Accommodation for three nights in the bohemian district of Santa Teresa. In an exuberant garden, a house where the 19th century has left its mark. The decor is cool and colourful - well served by Brazilian craftsmanship. At the window, Guanabara Bay, which shines in the sun. With this view, breakfast on the terrace is a opportunity that you simply can't ignore. Just below, a lovely swimming pool, perfect for relaxing in the evening. The spacious rooms overlook the garden.