Solar da Ponte, Tiradentes

Dating back to the 18th Century, Solar da Ponte and its beautiful gardens have been exquisitely restored and are the ideal base to explore the winding streets and Baroque churches of the town.

Owned by a British couple who fell in love with the area when they visited, they have created a charming 18 room hotel, which maintains many of its colonial features. Guest rooms are spacious and furnished with antiques and locally made furniture. Some of them overlook the gardens.

There is a pretty walled garden, a swimming pool and plenty of cosy sitting areas both inside and out for guests to relax. There is also a bar and a homely dining area, which serves breakfast, light snacks and afternoon tea.

Being in the centre of Tiradentes means you're never far from a variety of cafes and restaurants for lunch and dinner. Take an afternoon stroll through the cobbled streets and see the local vendors selling their artworks and handicrafts.

With tropical forests and the imposing São José Mountain Range as a backdrop, the picturesque town is an ideal base for exploring the Brazilian countryside. Walks, biking, horse-back riding is all available in the area, as well as visits to local villages and fazendas (farms).

Solar da Ponte, at a glance

• Charming owner run hotel in the heart of picturesque Tiradentes
• 18 colonial style rooms, furnished with antiques and locally made furniture
• Outdoor pool and gardens
• Bar, breakfast room and afternoon tea available

For leisure and pleasure

• Explore the historic cobble stone streets of Tiradentes
• Visit the Baroque churches, galleries, shops and cafes in the town
• Take a day trip into the countryside around the town, to a local fazenda (farm)
• Horse-back riding, mountain biking and hiking is possible in the surrounding São José Mountains