Ilha Grande – Atlantic rainforest and beaches

We caught the early ferry from Angra Dos Reis over to the island of Ilha Grande fully prepared to enjoy our last few days – a bit of sunshine, nice beaches, nice treks, Brazilian beer and relaxation. It started well – as after a small stroll out to a local beach and a quick explore of town we promptly returned to the hostel and crashed out for the afternoon – our first afternoon in 9 months of doing nothing, absolutely nothing, just catching up on some much needed sleep… bliss! So the following day feeling slightly better it was time to explore this small island – it is an Atlantic rainforest covered island with no roads, only small paths heading up into the hills and some fantastic beaches and coves to explore. We headed up and over the middle of the island to the other side to see one of the best and most accessible beaches, as we climbed down through the forest you could hear the waves slowly getting nearer and suddenly out of the trees you were on the beach. Greeted by the view of a couple of mile stretch of golden sand and turquoise water – oh and a few dozen Brazilian holiday makers playing in the water! We found our little piece of tranquillity in the sand away from the crowds and had a picnic and quick play in the water but it wasn’t long before we were bored of sitting on the beach (no matter how nice it was) so we started out trek back over to town – leaving the sun worshippers and lazy sensible ones who took one of the many taxi boats back! The following day and another trek to another stretch of beach, this time though it was slightly further and a lot hotter!! Yet another stunning beach awaited us but for some reason unless there is kayaks, surfing or any other way we can still keep active we get very bored very quickly just sitting! Oh well it was a lovely trek so lets turn round and do the 3 hours back. Our little stay on a Brazilian paradise island was good though, very relaxing, totally different to anything else we’d done in 9 months and much needed we even managed to catch a small local festival whilst on the island which was… erm very small but nice!