Paraty

Paraty is a small and very charming village located in a bay with calm and crystal-clear water, about 260 km from Rio de Janeiro. The city was founded in 1667 around the Church of "Nossa Senhora dos Remedios", its patron saint. Paraty (sometimes spelled "parati") had a significant economic importance due to its sugar cane mills (it used to have over 250 distilleries), and the name "paraty" was at a certain time synonym of a very good sugar cane rum (pinga). It was also the harbour through which the gold and precious stones left Brazil for Portugal.

Declared a Historical Heritage in 1958, Paraty is one of the most fascinating touristic destinations in Brazil. Strolling the streets of the historical center, with its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, visiting numerous art galleries and stores, or simply enjoying the music and relaxing in the quiet atmosphere of the place are but a few options that Paraty offers to its visitors.

The city is also known for its natural beauty. Paraty's bay is surrounded by over 65 tropical islands and dozens of beaches, each offering something different and all covered with vegetation that remains lush and colorful year round. The water of the bay is always the right temperature for swimming, diving and snorkeling. There are numerous ways to explore it, the most common is on a five-hour schooner trip.

More touristic information can be found here.