As hippies mourn the journey to mainstream of their havens in Goa and Thailand, places like Trancoso still manage to retain their authentic vibe. Situated on Bahia's Discovery Coast - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Trancoso has historically remained unspoilt by mass tourism due to being hemmed in by impenetrable jungle on all sides. Favoured by celebrities seeking solace and respite, European hippies and artists, it is the ideal place to get away from it all. And the best places to stay in Trancoso are an eclectic mix to suit all of these and more, from chic boutiques to luxury seaside stays.
With a 15 mile stretch of golden sandy beach, music festivals, moon dancing ceremonies and parties that keep going well into the early hours, it is a town steeped in rustic simplicity and charm. Time moves slowly here; the days blur hazily into one.
You will find locals trundling without a care in the world from their palm-shaded hammocks to the golden beach, while others meander gently down the shop-lined roads, past minimalist designer boutiques and smoothie bars; on certain days, the village elders congregate around the Table of Old beneath the tallest tree, while local fishermen beach their brightly coloured boats along the shoreline.
In the centre of town you'll find the church of Sao Joao Batista, built in the late 16th-century, from coral rock and whale bones. Surrounding it are little adobe houses and fishermen's cottages with colourful facades of pink, sky-blue and banana-yellow.
At the beach, you can watch holidaymakers canter down the long golden beach on horseback, while smoothie-slurping hippies conduct yoga sessions late into dusk. Hippies arguably saved the town from extinction after flocking there in the late 70s, bringing with them roads, electricity, yoga, smoothies and international celebrities. You'll likely enough see Oscar-winning actors, Victoria Secret models and CNN anchors all floating aimlessly around the village.
Festivals abound here: the Festival of Sao Bras in February is wild - a 36-hour party. The Musica em Trancoso is a jazz, classical and traditional Brazilian music festival occurring between the Carnival and Easter.
This is a holiday destination with much to offer, so browse through our collection of the best places to stay in Trancoso, to start planning your trip.
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Trancoso (Centro)
This boutique pousada is located in central Trancoso, a stone's throw from the historic Quadrado Square. Guestrooms feature stylish interiors in an earthy palette with natural accents and a private balcony. Eat breakfast on the terrace or have a night-cap at the cosy bar; an inviting boutique hotel.
Trancoso (Trancoso)
A small boutique property with stunning sea views. Pretty rooms feature light wooden furniture set against white washed walls. The best have hammocks tied up by the large windows. Reasonably priced and spitting distance from the beach, this is a winning choice.
Trancoso (Trancoso)
This family-run guest house is located 6 minutes away from the beach in Trancoso. It offers extremely spacious, well-lit rooms and boasts an outdoor pool. Enjoy a large buffet breakfast each morning with fresh fruits from the garden before heading to the beach. A charming, friendly and stylish spot!
Trancoso
This chic pousada is located in central Trancoso, Bahia. Guestrooms feature comfortable beds, crisp, white linens and natural accents, plus a private patio; book a family room to accommodate children. Unwind by the outdoor pool, on the terrace or wander the verdant gardens; a charming, cosy pousada.
Trancoso (Quadrado)
This eco friendly pousada is situated in central Trancoso, less than a mile from the beach. It features contemporary rooms with a simple decor, a beautiful outdoor pool in the midst of a tropical garden and a hot tub. Be sure to enjoy their wonderful buffet breakfast each morning! A tranquil spot.
Trancoso
This stylish hotel offers accommodation next to Praia dos Coqueiros in Trancoso, Brazil. Guest chalets are bright and airy with elegant wooden furnishings, self-catering facilities and a terrace; book the largest chalet for a garden and family living space. Unwind by the pool; a charming beach stay.
Trancoso
Loaded with charm and character, Casa de Pera'Inda combines excellent service with a welcoming, convivial atmosphere. It offers smart, stylishly designed rooms with elegant furnishings and tasteful decor. Recline poolside or go on a horse trek through the surrounding jungle.
Trancoso (Bonita - BA)
Luxury beach cabanas just set back from the sand amongst the groves. Romantic suites have four poster beds, wooden floors and private balconies. Private beach with lots of deck chairs. Walking distance to restaurants. A perfect beach holiday for honeymooners or couples.
Trancoso
Eight rustic-chic bungalows individually decorated in ethnic style. It sits in the midst of a tranquil shady grove just minutes from the beach. A stylish beach retreat.
Trancoso (Praia dos Nativios)
A fantastic beach property ideal for fun in the sun. Cabana style suites underneath the palms, white sand on your doorstep, infinity pool, fabulous seas food restaurant, and a golf course. Perfect for beach life, families, and golfers.
Trancoso
Beautiful wooden casas decorated with Brazilian art and antiques sprawl through a luscious shady garden. Barefoot luxury for couples, families, or any beach break.
Trancoso (Bahia)
This charming hotel offers suites and private bungalows nestled on Trancoso Beach in Bahia, Brazil. Interiors are inspired by the Caribbean setting and feature crisp white drapes and uplifting shades of blue; book the Costa bungalow for pretty sea views. Book into the spa; an inviting beach hotel.
