House Reflection of the waters

Accommodation at Casa Reflexo das Águas in Praia do Mirror on the seafront with travel agency AEA Boutique Travel. Near the charming fishing village of Caraíva, 20 km south of Trancoso, lies one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, the famous Praia do Espelho, whose name derives from the sunlight and moonlight reflected in the calm ocean. When hippies settled in southern Bahia in the 70s and 80s, this was a popular place to visit and hang out.

Some built simple beach huts that ended up becoming comfortable homes, like this cozy and sophisticated beach house whose restoration represents designer Wilbert Das' first Brazilian residential project outside of Trancoso.

Standing on a rustic base of natural wood, the striking teal house appears to be a reflection of the ocean itself, fronted by a porch replete with a giant almond tree growing from its roof.

A separate bungalow next to the house is hidden among palm trees and flowering bushes, but reveals the same spectacular ocean views as the main house.

INCLUSIONS: Breakfast, buffet with touches of Bahian cuisine served in the House itself, depending on the house booked➔ daily cleaning➔ gardener➔ Wi-Fi, parking➔ concierge services➔ Private cook/chef (extra) ➔ Massage (extra) ➔ Yoga/pilates (extra) ➔ Nanny (extra).

The houses in Praia do Espelho have their own local team, responsible for services during accommodation. After confirming the reservation, guests will be contacted to organize details of their stay. Due to the location, it is not possible to accommodate last minute requests and all details need to be organized in advance.

Praia do Espelho easily passes the ‘paradisiacal beaches’ test. For starters, it's beautiful and remains semi-wild. In addition to the natural beauty, its occupation is charming — there is no plastic furniture, walls, aluminum frames or mirrored glass.

There is no ‘center’ or ‘village’. The top of the cliff is discreetly occupied by Outeiro das Brisas, an attempt to recreate Trancoso in the form of a condominium. Those on the beach, however, don't even realize that Outeiro exists.

The official name of the beach is Curuípe — “Espelho” is the nickname for the right corner, passing Riozinho. 35 years ago, however, the place was better known as “Arão”, which is the name of the patriarch of the fishing family that preserved this paradise until it was put on the map.

This is the most coveted tour in Southern Bahia. But don't settle for a simple visit. Stay here — and you will sleep and wake up on a beach as paradisiacal as when it was simply “Arão”. (travel credits for the trip).