A stay at The Belmond Das Cataratas, Brazil
A Splendid Escape Amidst Natural Grandeur!
My two kids, hubby and I arrived at the Belmond Hotel Das Cataratas after landing at Foz do Iguaçu airport. The journey from the airport to the hotel was brief, taking less than five minutes to reach the entrance of the National Park. From there, it was an additional 15-minute drive, with speed limits enforced at 40kph to protect wildlife, until we reached the hotel entrance. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the park entrance, providing an alternative option for guests who prefer to save on transportation costs. For those inclined, taking a taxi from the airport to the park entrance and then utilizing the free shuttle is a convenient and budget-friendly choice.
Envision yourself enveloped in the mesmerizing allure of Brazil's Iguazu Falls, surrounded by lush greenery and the symphony of cascading waters. Amidst this enchanting setting lies the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, a luxurious sanctuary that beckons travelers seeking a blend of opulence and natural splendor. Its iconic pink facade, affectionately dubbed "The Pink Palace," with it’s Portuguese hacienda-style architecture amidst the tropical foliage is a beautiful backdrop for some great photos!
When you come dressed for the occasion!
UNPARALLELED location - exclusive access to iguazu falls
Undoubtedly, the crown jewel of the Belmond Das Cataratas experience is it’s exclusive access to Iguazu Falls.
As the only hotel located within the boundaries of Iguazu National Park on the Brazilian side, guests enjoy unparalleled privileges, including access to the falls before and after regular park hours. This unique opportunity allows for intimate encounters with the natural wonder, devoid of crowds, and allows the chance to witness the ethereal beauty of sunrise and sunset amidst the cascading waters.
Absolutely breathtaking view of the gorgeous Iguazu Falls from the hotel’s terrace!
The hotel offers exclusive tours of Iguazu Falls, most of them offered at an additional charge but worth it to avoid the crowds that visit the park from 9 am - 5 pm. You are also permitted to walk the trails to the Falls (about a 15 minute walk) before and after hours on your own. I recommend not walking the trail after dark as there can be snakes and other wildlife encounters that might not be too safe. During full moon nights, the hotel provides captivating full moon tours, offering guests a remarkable opportunity to witness the falls illuminated solely by the moonlight, with no other artificial lights nearby.
Accommodations and Amenities
The hotel houses 193 elegant rooms and suites, with a timeless charm with colonial Portuguese design elements and modern comforts, the hotel offers a haven of serenity and refinement. The accommodations at the Belmond Hotel Das Cataratas epitomize luxury and comfort. From cozy rooms overlooking the falls to spacious suites adorned with elegant furnishings and panoramic views of the rainforest. The kids shared a standard room, which was not huge but had a lovely view from the window, a sizable closet and spacious bathroom. My husband and I stayed in the junior suite, with a super comfortable bed and a seating area for some relaxation after a day in the sun!
Junior suite
The hotel boasts a myriad of amenities, including exquisite dining options, serene pool areas, rejuvenating spa treatments, and a plethora of activities ranging from nature excursions to adventurous escapades.
The pool served complimentary coconut
ice cream, champagne and water to guests and even had a soft music deejay from 4pm onwards all three days that we were there.
The main restaurant at the hotel, Ipe Restaurant serves a delicious breakfast buffet but guests can also opt to order a la carte from the menu. The restaurant also offers lunch poolside and all-day snacks as well.
Itaipu Restaurant - a fine dining options at the hotel is set against the backdrop of the stunning Iguaçu Falls, so a reservation for dinner right before sunset is an ideal time to be seated on the outdoor terrace. The restaurant offers an elegant dining experience showcasing the best of Brazilian cuisine. Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes inspired by traditional Brazilian flavors, including fresh seafood, succulent meats, and tropical fruits. The restaurant's sophisticated ambiance and panoramic views provide the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or special celebration.
Of course, no visit to a hotel is complete without a visit to the spa! After visiting Parque das Aves, (bird park close by) my husband and I spent an afternoon at the spa treating ourselves to massages of our choice. Upon entering the spa, guests are greeted by a sense of calm and relaxation, with soothing music and the scent of essential oils filling the air. The spa features a range of treatment rooms where guests can enjoy a variety of massages, facials, and body treatments tailored to their individual needs.
The spa menu boasts an array of indulgent treatments inspired by the healing traditions of Brazil and beyond. From traditional Brazilian massages using local ingredients like açai and cupuaçu to rejuvenating facials and body scrubs, each treatment is designed to nourish the body and soothe the senses.
In addition to individual treatments, the spa also offers special packages and rituals designed to provide a holistic wellness experience. These packages may include a combination of massages, facials, and body treatments, as well as access to the spa's relaxation areas and amenities.
Spa treatment room
And can we talk about the clock tower? It is absolutely stunning, painted in pink with flowers and tropical foliage adorned, which serves as a nice visual distraction as you ascend the stairs to the top for that magical view!
From the vantage point of the clock tower at the Belmond Hotel Das Cataratas, guests are treated to a panoramic spectacle of beauty. Directly in front of the tower, the mighty Iguazu Falls commands attention with its thunderous roar and cascading waters, creating a mesmerizing display of natural power and grandeur. The sheer magnitude of the falls, combined with the surrounding rainforest and mist-shrouded cliffs, paints a picture of pristine wilderness that captivates the senses.
As the sun rises or sets over the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vivid hues, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape and infusing it with an ethereal beauty. The ever-changing play of light and shadow adds depth and dimension to the scene, creating a sense of drama and enchantment that captivates the soul.
From the clock tower, guests can also take in sweeping views of the surrounding rainforest, with its lush canopy of trees and winding rivers snaking their way through the landscape. The verdant expanse stretches out as far as the eye can see, offering a glimpse into the untamed wilderness that lies beyond.
Overall, the view from the clock tower at the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas is nothing short of spectacular, providing guests with a front-row seat to one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Picture perfect mural at the top of the clock tower
Impeccable Service and Thoughtful Touches
What truly sets the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas apart is its unwavering commitment to exceptional service and hospitality. From the moment of arrival, guests are greeted with warmth and attentiveness, ensuring a seamless and memorable stay. The hotel's dedication to guest satisfaction is evident in the myriad of thoughtful touches, from welcome drinks and stocked mini-fridges to complimentary Havaianas and luxury bath products, all designed to elevate the guest experience to new heights.
In conclusion, our experience at the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas surpassed all expectations, reaffirming its status as a premier destination for discerning travelers. With its unrivaled location, luxurious accommodations, exclusive access to Iguazu Falls, and exemplary service, the hotel offers an unforgettable retreat amidst the natural grandeur of Brazil. For those seeking an immersive and indulgent escape into the heart of South America's most iconic natural wonder, the Belmond Hotel as Cataratas is undoubtedly a destination worth experiencing.