Pequena Suecia Hotel E Restaurante

There are hotels you check in to and wish you were back home. Then there are those few gems sprinkled around the world, where you find a joyful vacation from home. If you are a leisure or business traveler visiting the Itatiaia area in Brazil, then Hotel Pequena Suecia is one of these gems you will thank yourself for visiting. For starters, the location nestled at the foothills of a tropical rain forest with magnificent views of the Maua Mountain range; is a respite in itself. Close to civilization yet far away in its feel; this is a place where you can take an early morning sauna and dip in the pool while sipping your coffee or freshly squeezed fruit juice. Or wind down your evening with a cool beverage in hand while listening to world class jazz. And world class jazz it is! The owner Marie Goransson is the daughter of Swedish Immigrants who brought with them from their homeland their traditions, love of entertaining, and gift for creating unique, soothing environments in their guest rooms. Marie is also an avid Jazz fan with an uncanny ability to attract musical prodigies the likes of which you would normally see at the Montreux Jazz Festival. It’s as surprising as it is enjoyable. The rooms themselves are all unique. From single rooms to family cabins, each has its fireplace for the cool evenings. My favorite is the Casa do Principe with its fabulous wrap around balconies, where the hummingbirds frequently imbibe in the nectar of the flowers from the adjoining rain forest. Oh, by the way, the name means The Prince’s House after Marie’s parents had the pleasure of inviting the Prince of Sweden for a week’s stay over 50 years ago. If you enjoy the outdoors, Hotel Pequena Suecia offers a wonderful array of outdoor activities. From horse back rides into the forest, to leisurely baths in the natural waterfalls; or my favorite, visiting the amazing Parque de Maua National Park, you will not soon be bored from lack of activity. My sense is if you visit Pequena Suecia, you will go back. And as in my case, request your favorite room, have a coffee with Marie, say hi to the friendly staff who will remember your name. And most likely find like minded travelers with whom you will keep in touch for years to come. This is not a hotel! Hotel Pequena Suecia is a place to recharge your soul; if only for a few days.