Barra de São Miguel, a place to be revisited

by Antonella Kann/photos by Rogério Maranhão



Can you see that picture above? Well, that´s where I will head to in October. Okay, I understand if you feel a bit envious. Off the beaten track it is - a marvellous beach called Barra de São Miguel, 30 kms from Alagoas´ state capital, Maceió. I remember going there...hummm...20 years ago, to spend New Year´s Eve. Our family and some friends had rented a house for 10 days and spent a memorable vacation. There was nothing besides a few villas lined along the deserted beach and the weather was perfect. So, that´s the place filled with memories where I want to go back. Now, in style, as a host of this eco-chic design resort called Kenoa, a new kid (just off) the block, which opened less than 2 years ago.

This impressive architecture is home to 23 luxurious suites, ranging from 45 to 200 square meters, depending which accommodation you choose. Some even have a private jacuzzi overlooking the beach. Whow! I am looking forward, that´s for sure! Specially when summer´s crowds have not yet arrived and this stretch of sandy beach is the perfect haven for relaxing, fancy long walks and tan yourself under the nicest weather ever.

Barra de São Miguel could easily become the destination on everybody´s lips, specially when you can stay in such a serenely stylish paradise known to only the savviest of travellers. But I´d feel bad if I wouldn´t share this secret with you, and though I still do not know the Kenoa personally, there´s little doubt that it will be a knock-out! Besides all the ammenities in the room, there´s a spa, a restaurant and a lounge to feel as pampered as royalty.

Spending nights in this beautiful environement is a vital part of any holiday. As I am focused on suggesting special spots for spending New Year´s Eve, I wouldn´t be pushing the envelope if I didn´t tell those nature buffs to consider Barra de São Miguel as a perfect choice. It may - as usual! - cost you a leg and an arm, but trust me, it´s worth it. I´ve been told that they still have availability, so...rush!

Every detail in the Kenoa draws my eyes like a magnet, as creature comforts were not overlooked: huge luxurious bed, peerless views, wi fi, huge TV, you name it. I expect my stay to be deliriously good and I promise to keep you posted.

www.kenoaresort.com

tel.55 82 3272 1285

Porto de Pedras, in Alagoas state: icoaré or...do nothing!

by Antonella Kann

The small town of Porto de Pedras, in the northeastern state of Alagoas, is located on the coastline between Maceio and Recife, and is almost surrounded by water from all sides. Framed between two rivers, the Manguaba to the north and the Tatuamunha to the south, I would say that the reason why the place remains unspoilt is due to its natural borderlines.

The 8 kilometers of isolated sandy beach have as many labels you can name: Laje, Gibaba, Tatuamunha, Pataxo…On all its extension, bordered by coconut trees, you´ll spot local fishermen duly looking for their daily catch and, at low tide, several natural pools which become an ideal place to splurge yourself into. Water is clear and warm.

the sururu, a regional delish

But everyone has to adapt to the whims of nature, as long walks can only be done when the tide is low. And even a dip into the gentle sea should be avoided at some peak hours of the day. And be careful if you want to walk barefoot: small shells and stones can easily hurt you.

For those who enjoy exploring, set sail on one of those rafts called jangada, to get to further natural swimming spots where the water is translucid. You´ll be able to snorkel and observe marine life. But remember that tides rule every move and activities of the small communities which are located on the shoreline, including your outdoor schedules.

relax by the pool at Beijupirá´s 

Just off the beach at Gibaba, some happy visitors may be fortunate enough to float besides a manatee, or sea cow, a large mammal protected by environmental laws. They usually swim freely between the river and the sea with high tides.

the swimming pool at Pousada Aldeia Beijupirá

Expect to find a mild climate in this region, as even in summer it will never be suffocating and the constant breeze brings the temperatures down. In winter, apart from a few rainshowers, it won´t get cold either.

Besides long walks and snorkeling, eventually going for a horseback riding journey on the beach, there´s not much more to do, except relax in one of the very comfortable pousadas, nestled as close to the beach as possible. By day 2, you´ll be just happy to sip your cashew caipirinha by the pool and enjoy the flavours of the ingredients which are typically from Alagoas, such as carne seca, a kind of jerked beef, and sururu, a seafood which tastes special.

Plus all sort of tropical fruits, fresh caught prawns, langoustines, grilled fish…

One of the best local pousadas is called Aldeia Beijupirá  with very spacious and charming “malocas” ( individual huts) facing the sea. Or try the Pousada do Toque which offers private pools in its more luxurious and exclusive bungalows. Then, just lean back and relax , complying with the local saying, ico aré, which means “ to do nothing” in the indigenous language tupi-guarani. Difficult? Just give it a try.