The Discovery Coast, so named because it was the first place where Portuguese explorers disembarked in 1500, occupies the central part of the Brazilian coastline between Rio and Salvador de Bahia.
This thinly populated stretch of tropical coastline consists of hundreds of kilometres of palm-fringed, white sandy beaches, and unspoilt coast, large parts of which are protected natural reserves.
The region, which is dotted with small cities and resort areas, has long been a popular destination with both Brazilians and foreign visitors.
Today it is the third most popular tourist destination in Brazil after Rio and the Iguaçu Falls.
With a uniquely laid-back attitude, captured by the sensual tones of Samba and Bossa Nova, the Discovery Coast provides an eclectic mix of “hippie chic” charm and cool trendy havens such as Trancoso and Arraial d´ Ajuda, where you can find glamorous film stars and famous business tycoons discreetly residing in “pousadas” (guest houses) or in the exclusive Terra Vista Resort.
In contrast the charming town of Belmonte, the ancient capital of cocoa producers, features superb old colonial palaces and mansions dating back to the 19th century.
The Discovery Coast
With its charm, beauty and superb weather, this region is being discovered by more and more people and is becoming “the place to invest”, whether it be for residential or investment purposes.
Already half a dozen of large scale projects have been approved and backed by British, Portuguese, Swiss and Spanish investors, most of which are to be located in North Porto Seguro near Belmonte; by far the most beautiful and unspoilt part of the coast. Unlike the high density “patchworks” seen on the Mediterranean Coasts, projects in this area with be low rise, low density and built to very high standards, guaranteeing a homogenous, ecofriendly environment, attracting a more upmarket clientele.