Pousada Sitio do is a genuine tropical island paradise on Ilha Grande, a mountainous island of some 193 sq km of natural park where no roads are allowed. This former coffee farm surrounded by tropical rain fores and the chrystal clear ocean offers theier guests the sensation of peace and comfort in perfect harmony with nature.

Less than a 2-hour drive from Rio and a short speedboat ride.

Hidden among the trees on the hillside are 9 simple yet comfortable guestrooms. All have been individually and tastefully decorated with rustic charm by the owner, Julinha Serrado, a well-known Brazilian interior designer. Nature-inspired details abound: bedcovers with brightly-coloured starfish motifs, a bamboo headboard embedded with tiny seashells, framed wild flower prints and glass-topped backgammon tables cleverly made out of peppercorns. Creature comforts include fine Egyptian cotton bedlinen, minibars, AC, screened windows, bathrobes and hairdryers, as well as fresh flowers. All rooms have tiled floors, wooden ceilings, en suite bathrooms, either white-tiled or built out of the local rock, with walk in showers (no bathtubs), plenty of hot water and Sitio do Lobo toiletries. Outside, all have polished wooden verandas (some shared) overlooking the ocean with tables and chairs.

The food at Sitio do Lobo is fresh, healthy and tasty home-cooking rather than gourmet cuisine. Meals can be taken anywhere - from the shaded veranda of the main house to a secluded candlelit setting under the stars. Wherever you choose, the views will be fabulous, the sea crystal clear and gently lapping against the rocks below and the table prettily decorated with exotic flowers. Breakfast is a simple buffet of tropical fruits, fresh juices, yoghurt, cereal, breads, ham and cheese, accompanied by decent coffee (the estate is a former coffee plantation), an extensive range of teas and Jose offering advice on local hikes and kayaking. Guests usually have dinner or a late lunch at Sitio do Lobo and we recommend booking the half board option. There are a number of simple restaurants and bars in the village of Abraao (5 minutes by speedboat or 50 minutes by kayak), but once you have tasted the heavenly cocktails, including moreish Coconut Caipirinhas and zingy Swiss Lemonade.

From wooden verandas follow pathways to the outdoor swimming pool, massage huts or mountain trails. Rest in the pagoda or pass by scented tangerine trees to visit the thatched play area complete with pool table, sound and vision and sofas built into giant granite boulders. There is even a volleyball pitch hidden up the hillside and kayaks that provide the most enjoyable way of travelling to some of the islands 100 unspoilt beaches.

Furthermore facilities are a comfortable sitting room in main house with satellite TV and video. Large dining veranda with hammocks and sofas. Large thatched outdoor pavillion built into the rocks with TV, Hi-Fi, snooker table, bar, BBQ and sofas. Artistic details throughout, from the collection of small painted boats made by one of the staff to Julinhas wooden frogs of all sizes dotted around the house and grounds.

The pousada offers a wide variety of activities like: Kayaking: there are excellent open top kayaks with custom-made cushioned seats so that you can paddle for hours in comfort. No previous experience is needed; they are free of charge and the best way to explore some of the islands deserted and unspoilt beaches (nearest is 10 mins) and the islands village, Abraao (50 mins). Hiking: Ilha Grande has no roads, just miles of hiking trails, leading you through tropical forest to deserted beaches and mountain tops. Lopes Mendes, one of the most spectacular beaches, is a 2-hr hike from Abraao. Pico do Papagaio (980m) is a stiff 3-hr climb with breathtaking views at the top. Boat trips: Sitio do Lobo has its own motor boat which can be chartered for excursions. Pop into Abraao, the islands main village, with its handful of shops, beach bars and simple restaurants. Scuba Diving: the waters around Ilha Grande are crystal clear, offering some good snorkelling and diving which can be arranged - off site.