Pousada chez Nous

Given its proximity to Rio, Penedo seems to be a romantic weekend getaway for people from the city. Therefore, lodging is luxurious and expensive for the most part. It was already dark by the time we got there and drove into Chez Nous because literally it was the first hotel we saw and they were advertising an attractive rate. We could not have been luckier. The hotel has a wide range of rooms, from economic rooms to luxurious ones with a fireplace and Jacuzzi. The one we picked had a small very functional kitchen. The owner let us see 2 or 3 rooms and all of them were impeccably clean and decorated with good taste. As soon as we stepped in the house where the front desk and breakfast room are located we felt like at home. The owner, Ms. Anne, is a very kind and loving French woman that welcomed us with coffee and cake. She speaks French, Portuguese, and English (and maybe Spanish) so communication was not an issue. Other guests and friends of the owner were there and we had a very nice conversation. When you are travelling for a really long time, you truly welcome these encounters. Breakfast next morning was delicious. Cafe da manha in Brazil is generally very generous but everything in this one was baked and cooked that same morning. There were 3 or 4 French cakes that just came out of the oven, pastries, eggs, cold cuts and cheese, fruit, juices, etc. The owner’s son and daughter were around that morning and joined us for breakfast. This was a great way of getting acquainted with the region and helped us plan our next stop in Visconde de Mua. In summary the rooms (including the bathroom) are very clean and comfortable. The internet connection is fast. The property is beautiful surrounded by trees and flowers and it has a nice pool and a sauna. The breakfast is excellent. But the best of all are the service and kindness of the owner, her staff, and her family.