Búzios has always held a special place in my life. A town woven into my childhood, it remains a soothing contrast to the chaos of Rio – especially when visited outside the carnaval highs. Returning after so many years felt both familiar and new. This time, I chose to stay at Casas Brancas Búzios, one of the town’s most storied hotels, and I can confidently say it now stands as my favourite property in Búzios.
Perched above the famed Orla Bardot, the hotel enjoys a privileged location – just steps from the photogenic statue of Brigitte Bardot and a few minutes’ walk from Rua das Pedras, Búzios’ lively artery of restaurants and boutiques. It’s also close to Privilege, a beach club I’ve frequented over the years. But while the setting delivers convenience and atmosphere, it’s the hotel itself that quietly impresses.
A property shaped by light and layers
True to its name, Casas Brancas – meaning ‘White Houses’ – feels like an elegant hillside home composed of many private corners. Each room is uniquely styled and flows with the organic architecture of the property. My room was modest in size, yet incredibly warm and personal, bathed in soft shades of white and decorated with understated, coastal touches. From the terracotta plant pots to the creamy textiles and aged timber furniture, everything felt grounded and thoughtful.
Upon arrival, a few delicate brigadeiros and beijinhos awaited in miniature coffee cups – a small but memorable welcome that immediately set the tone. The bed was supremely comfortable, the bathroom details were refined, and the balcony offered quiet views out to sea, framed by bougainvillea and the curve of the bay beyond.
Poolside pleasures and elevated evenings at Casas Brancas Búzios
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The main pool is set against a sea-facing terrace framed by whitewashed beams and Mediterranean greenery. On our first afternoon, we lounged poolside, sipping Aperol Spritzes as the sun slipped into the horizon – a classic Búzios sunset moment made even better by the laid-back vibe and attentive bar team.
Later that evening, after a walk through Rua das Pedras, we returned to dine at 74 Osteria, the hotel’s Italian restaurant set directly on the promenade underneath Casas Brancas Búzios. The space glows with ochre walls, trailing plants, and candlelit tables. We enjoyed a beautifully plated parmesan-crusted pasta and a comforting homemade ravioli – both dishes felt honest, hearty and polished. The option to order a half bottle of wine was a nice touch, particularly after a day of poolside sipping.
A slow morning by the sea
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Breakfast is served on an upper terrace just above the pool, offering panoramic views over the bay. The layout includes a compact buffet of pastries, fruit and yoghurt, complemented by a small à la carte menu. I opted for a classic Brazilian tapioca filled with ham and cheese, followed by a fluffy stack of pancakes. The coffee was strong, and the setting made everything taste better.
A hotel that makes you linger
Although we could only stay one night, the team extended the warmth of the experience by allowing us to enjoy the facilities post-check-out. We returned from a visit to two of Búzios’ most iconic beaches João Fernandes and Ferradurinha to spend our final hours swimming and lounging. The pool, with its perfect water temperature, was a standout. A simple fish and chips plate, along with light snacks and a mini bottle of champagne for my partner, kept us content until departure.
What stood out most beyond the setting and design was the service. From the receptionist who checked us in early without hesitation, to the poolside staff who joked and conversed in English (a rarity in Brazil), everything felt genuine. Even for a Brazilian like me, I appreciated how welcoming it was for my English-speaking partner.
A place I should have discovered sooner
Having visited the seaside town countless times, I now wonder why it took me so long to stay at Casas Brancas Búzios. It strikes a rare balance – charming without being cliché, elegant without pretence, and local without losing sight of international comfort. It feels like a place you return to not because it surprises you, but because it calms you.
