The only boutique hotel in the historic main square of Trancoso, Bahia, Uxua Casa Hotel & Spa offers a private seaside village escape. Its 10 private ‘casas’ are in demand all year round, drawing guests with its stunning beachside location, dedication to sustainable tourism and captivating interiors. It’s reputation doesn’t detract from its ability to act as the perfect luxury haven to revel in this coastal charm, the balance between luxury and laid-back style enviably on point. What began as a fashion designer’s Trancoso holiday home has evolved into an award-winning community project that promises guests an authentic, immersive Bahian experience.
Each of the 11 private one-, two- and three-bedroom casas has its own unique personality and and a private garden for those sundowner wines. Sitting rooms are partly open-air and private plunge pools are perfect for a refreshing dip if you don’t fancy a beach adventure. Always harking back to the local traditions and culture, four are restored homes of fishermen; six were built by local artisans using traditional methods and upcycled materials; the most recently renovated two-story house once belonged to a local ceramics artist.
The pink banana-flower-filled garden, the unique aventurine-lined pool and three spa treatment rooms are sanctuary enough but there’s also surfing, biking, horseriding and the opportunity to try your hand at the Afro-Brasilian martial arts dance of capoeira. The hotel’s beach lounge, UXUA Praia Bar – where your cocktails are made in repurposed peeling-paint fishing boats – is the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Just-caught seafood is the star of a menu based on authentic local specialities such as rich fish moqueca stew or manioc-thickened bobo, and you are invited into the kitchen to watch the Bahian recipes come to life. Cachaça-enhanced Caipirinhas come in every fruity flavour. Eat poolside in the chic open-air lounge, at wooden tables by the square or down by the beach. For those for a truly exclusive and private escape, consider the option to prepare meals in the casas or have a private chef.
