Casa Uxua Hotel
Trancoso – a former fishing village on Brazil’s palm-fringed shores in Bahia – was discovered in the early Seventies by bohemian hippies from São Paulo, and truly is the epicentre of chill. This Brazilian tropical gem is famous for its stunningly simple architecture, unspoiled nature, endless stretches of pristine beaches, and rich local traditions.
Trancoso’s Quadrado is the famous grassy town square with colourful colonial casas, charming restaurants and Brazil’s 2nd-oldest church. This location, called by many a paradise on earth, is where the Dutch Wilbert Das (former Creative Director of Diesel) opened the boutique UXUA Casa Hotel —pronounced oo-SHOO-ahh – in 2009.
This eco-retreat is a collection of 10 restored fishermen’s homes, built with respect for tradition and environment, and reflecting a rustic Bahian style. Designed by the owner, Wilbert Das, the result is an intimate style paradise with hippie-chic accommodations, unpretentious luxury and world-class service.
UXUA’s architecture and design incorporates elements of Trancoso’s history. Portuguese adventurers, Indians, and even Brazilian hippies have influenced in some way the architecture, art and antiques that make each casa a unique expression.
The stylish one-to-three-bedroom bungalows create the picture-perfect Brazilian pied-à-terre, with locally sourced organic furniture, fully outfitted kitchens, whitewashed walls, outdoor bathrooms and hammocks. Some casas include plunge pools or jacuzzis, and tree casas face the square, so if you’re looking for total isolation, you may want to opt for bungalows away from the Quadrado. We recommend to book the eco-conscious, but lavish treehouse Casa da Arvore.
At UXUA Casa choose to dine poolside, beachfront, cook for yourself in your own home, or allow UXUA’s staff to arrange the visit of a top local chef to come and share their magic.
Apart from exploring the local culture, you can try a cooking or capoeira class.
The luxury hippy feel continues with a spa (including a gym and yoga/pilates studio), a beach lounge, tropical gardens and pool. UXUA Praia Bar – a spectacular beach-front lounge shaped from old fishing boats – is an 10-minute walk from the Quadrado. Here, enjoy that typically Brazilian barefoot-chic vibe, and perfect the art of laid-back lounging.
