This eco-resort has brought a wave of luxury to Brazil’s Praia do Forte

Situated in the northeast of Brazil, Praia do Forte in Bahia is where affluent locals spend their holidays, and it is easy to see why. The name, Bahia, means “bay” and refers to the vast bay that the first European explorers stumbled across in 1501. Claimed by the Portuguese, who brought slaves from Africa, it has resulted in the area maintaining a vibrant melting pot of cultures, along with a broad range of food, religion, music and dance.

Salvador de Bahia was the founding city in Brazil (and its original capital before the gold rush), and its vibrant fusion of both cultures has given birth to new religions, food and samba-reggae music, which black Brazilians call their own. Expect to witness impromptu dancing and capoeira everywhere; and the longest carnival celebration anywhere in Brazil. Taking place over a week in February, this is a massive party for Bahians, who are proud to have a type of Carnival parade music to call their own, and the whole town celebrates in style. 

Apart from dancing, food and seemingly laid back lifestyle, the scenery in Bahia is out of this world; expect to see coconut groves, sand dunes, rivers, swamps and freshwater lagoons. Inland, the Atlantic Rainforest connects the sleepy village of Praia do Forte, which is national area of environmental preservation, and where visitors are welcome to trek along paths in the forest or on the beaches. >>

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Diversifying from Brazil’s indigenous and Portuguese traditions, Bahia has remained a unique place to visit, and most tourists come for the sun, sand and coastline. The Whale Coast is the longest beach in Brazil, measuring over 685 miles, and as the name suggests, is ideal for whale watching between July and November. Schooners leave the beach on whale-watching tours almost every day, but the whales are fully protected, and strict rules regulate how tours operate in order to conserve their wellbeing. 

Turtles are another natural phenomenon, and the educational turtle rescue programme, TAMAR, a biodiversity conservation project in the village of Praia do Forte, gives tourists a chance to meet sea turtles and learn about their life cycles. During the nesting season from October through March, visitors are able to watch hatchlings reach the ocean; but even if you visit during the off season, you'll learn plenty about the endangered marine reptiles.

Utilising the natural beauty of the area, the Tivoli Ecoresort is nestled on the coastline an hour away from the airport and the capital. An oasis of white sand, frayed palms and clear sea, this bolthole offers just what it says, with extra spice. Expect a fusion of Brazilian luxury, ecology, a seven mile stretch of golden beach and plenty of diverse activities to keep you and your lover/family or friends occupied. 

All rooms are simply but beautifully designed in wood and stone with traditional wooden furniture. Expect all the necessary amenities such as minibar, cable TV, safe and Wi-Fi connection; there are also plentiful USB ports and a sea facing balcony where you can enjoy an orchestra of birdsong. Upgrade to a Master Room for a king size bed- or enjoy the majestically spacious Deluxe Suites, which feature a living room and dressing room.

Also within the property grounds are totally private Pool Villas, which provide a sanctuary for families, honeymooners or a group of friends. Working as sustainably as possible, the hotel has incorporated local products into much of its design, and the architecture is perfectly in tune with the setting and surrounding biodiversity, upcycling, using renewable energy and solar panels. 

The use of eco-friendly products follows through to the comprehensive Thalasso Spa which has a relaxation area, climate controlled pool, saunas, ice water bath and Jacuzzi, as well as An extensive range of signature treatments designed to rebalance your body and soul. Or take a short stroll to the beach and relax with the sea breeze  tickling your skin, underneath the towering palm trees swaying in the afternoon glow. >>

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Guests can choose from a number of restaurants or bars, serving Mediterranean, international and Brazillian cuisine. Tabaréu specialises in seafood and Bahian food, and Goa Restaurant offers a choice of international and Bahian dishes with show cooking, and of course, the traditional Brazilian feijoada and Caipirinhas are a must. 

Whether you are looking for an active break, where you take advantage of the leisure facilities includes multiple pools (including adults only) a floodlit football pitch, four tennis courts, and a  beach volleyball court, or watersports such as kayaking, diving and paddleboarding, there is always someone on hand to assist. Or if you just want to relax on the beach, and soak up the sunshine, admiring the majestic humpback whales in the distance (during calf laying season July – November), you can do it all at the Tivoli Eco Resort. 

Offering an oasis of calm in a jungle environment, the hotel is the ideal destination for adventure seekers, those who are looking for a private sanctuary or want to experience nature first hand; and its location just north of Salvador the resort makes a desirable vacation if you also want to explore the city.