Solar da Ponte, Tiradentes, Minas Gerais, Brazil - Explore & Book

"A short flight (or 5 hours' drive) inland from Rio, in the state of Minas Gerais, lies Tiradentes, an enchanting village of leafy squares, Baroque churches and cobbled streets. Set against the Sao Jose mountains, it's utterly picturesque. Solar da Ponte, "the house on the bridge", is a landmark in the state despite never being advertised. So renowned are its owners, English nature-lover John Parsons and his Brazilian historian wife Ana Maria, that throughout Brazil any talk of Tiradentes will invariably include the Parsons and their charming traditional country inn. This colonial-style manor house with its 18 rooms, all elegantly furnished with antiques, local artworks and fresh flowers, has been nurtured over the last 30 years to become the very best of its kind. It's deeply civilized: afternoon teas are a highlight, whilst its gardens with orchids growing in the trees and visiting marmosets never let you forget where you are. A good excursion from Rio. Highs Located in one of South America's most perfectly preserved colonial villages, with film and culinary festivals in January and August respectivelyThe owners are a great source of local information and will help organise excursions, hikes and ridingComfortable, tastefully decorated bedroomsDelicious breakfast and afternoon tea Pretty garden and swimming poolThe wonderful scent of ylang ylang flowers as you enter the gates Lows No children under the age of 8 (a bonus for some!)The rattling of trucks over the cobblestones can be heard from some roomsThere's no restaurant in the evenings, but there are many good eateries within walking distanceIt's popular with Rio folk so getting availability at weekends can be difficult" - Nikki Tinto