UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa

Dining: Breakfast is described as exceptionally good, with fresh food and drinks served at the hotel's beach bar and restaurant. Guests appreciate the culinary experiences, which include learning to make local dishes like Moqueca.

A longer review than usual because this property merits it. On arrival we were greeted by a young team, and immediately relieved of luggage, which was taken to our house (yes, you rent houses here, not rooms). We were given a tour by a lady who simply said “welcome to paradise” and she wasn’t exaggerating. It’s just an oasis. So lush, and green. Everything is built to blend in, the pool looks almost as though it was meant to be there naturally. The houses are made of mainly natural materials and are what might be called “rustic” but that doesn’t mean they’re not full of modern comforts! The shower (we had two, on an outside balcony, beautifully screened with natural vegetation), was powerfully and instant very hot water. The terrace had an enormous day bed. The kitchen had a large fridge and all you need to make a meal. The bed was king size and very comfortable. There’s a large screen tv (we didn’t watch it at all) and there’s effective air conditioning. The decor is contemporary but uses old items as well as new. It’s effective. We are at the restaurant for dinner once and it was very good. We had massages that were outstanding. And let’s not overlook the beach bar which reserved a sofa for each house daily and serves delicious food and drinks. The beach is a 10 minute walk down a hill and across a mango grove, but theres a courtesy car if you don’t fancy that. The beach is the stuff of dreams. Breakfast is also extremely good. What I love is that I’ve no idea how many houses there are here! It never feels busy and you bump into few people as you walk around, so it feels very private and secret. Is there anything that can be improved? Few hotels are perfect. If I’m being hyper critical, the wifi is patchy. I’d personally suggest that a property of this type might benefit from a no kids policy. I don’t mean to be harsh but it’s a sophisticated offering and it’s not as though they encourage children (there’s no kids pool) but some do stay and I really think other properties would be more suitable. Communication with reception/concierge is encouraged by WhatsApp rather than in person. I don’t mind that but some may prefer a more direct approach so I mention it just for awareness. Reception isn’t staffed past 10pm so I’ve no idea what happens after that! I’m struggling to offer much else that can be improved. If you want a proper escape from the madness, this is a great option. I’d love to come back soon.

Uxua was an amazing experience. We stayed at the house of São João. At first it's a little different as everything is open and there are no signs telling you which house is yours. But that's just a detail. With privacy as expected, everything works well and the staff is very prepared, kind and available. The hotel has 2 entrances, one for parking and the other in the Quadrado (middle). We were able to get everything done there and back to the hotel very quickly. There's only one thing we didn't like. Uxua is located on Coqueiro beach, there is a kiosk for guests and non-guests alike. Even if you are a guest, to use the kiosk you have to pay. I believe this is not right, as the hotel is very expensive. Delicious breakfast and dinner on the last day, best food ever. Incredible. If you like to walk, you can discover all the beaches by yourself just by walking. Believe you will have the best experience. The roads are very dilapidated and without lights. Sunset is around 5:40 pm, so care must be taken when driving after this time. Best beaches: rio da barra (may have natural and clay pools); mirrors (many natural pools), Patimirim (desert and beautiful) and Itapororoca (amazing natural pools). Believe me, go walking, because to get to Itaporoca the road is not good and the Fasano hotel put a barrier at the middle of the road, you have to say that you are going to Patimirim and they open it. This is absurd, as the beach is public. We are from São Paulo. Uxua will definitely be the one we will come back again.