Pousada Arquipelago

Pousada Arquipelago is in the Barra da Lagoa area, one of the most appealing villages on the island. A narrow channel runs from the big lagoon to the sea, wooden fishing boats line the banks, and a boardwalk links the shops, restaurants and the beach. The mood is easy and traditional, and it is a favourite with Brazilian families and couples. Staying in a village pousada means you can walk almost everywhere. Breakfast in the morning, a swim before lunch, a seafood meal by the channel and a sunset stroll are all within a few minutes of the door. The sand is wide, the pools at the end of the beach are good for children, and the hills behind the village add scenery. Facilities vary, so check the property page for room types, breakfast, parking and any outdoor spaces.

Barra da Lagoa works well as a base for the east coast. Joaquina, Mole and the lagoon district are a short drive away, and the lagoon boats to Costa da Lagoa depart nearby. Hiking trails lead from the village to quiet beaches and viewpoints, and the sea is good for swimming on calm days and bodyboarding when the waves rise.

Food is a highlight. Simple restaurants along the channel serve fried fish, shrimp, seafood stews and the Brazilian classics, and kiosks on the sand sell drinks and snacks. Prices are moderate, and you can often eat with a view of boats coming and going. Weekends are busy, so go early for lunch.

Because the village is a day trip destination as well, the streets fill up between late morning and early evening. Staying overnight lets you see it at its best, early in the morning and at dusk, when day visitors have left. Ask the hosts about quiet rooms if you want an early night.

Practical points include limited parking, narrow lanes and a lively summer season. Walking is easier than driving in the village centre. Bring sun protection, sandals and a light layer for the evenings.

Guests who enjoy photography should wake early. The channel is calm at sunrise, fishermen head out in small boats and the light is soft across the water. Late afternoon is equally good, when the sun lowers behind the hills and the village glows. Bring a spare memory card and sandals that can get wet, since the boardwalk and sand are part of daily life here.

Ask the hosts whether they can arrange luggage help if parking is some distance from the door, as the lanes near the channel can be narrow and busy in the afternoon.