Hotel Manary Praia, Natal, Northeast Brazil

Overlooking the ocean at fashionable Ponta Negra, the Manary Praia is a lovely small hotel with plenty of charm, great service and a celebrated restaurant. A member of Roteiros de Charme, all 24 rooms have air-con, flat screen cable TV, and wide balconies for hammocks. 10 of them directly face the ocean.

Drinks and snacks are served from the informal pool-side bar, and in the evening enjoy the candle-lit setting of the Manary restaurant, with beautiful sea views and delicious dishes prepared with regional and international flavours and styles - the specialty is seafood, using only the freshest, naturally grown ingredients.

The Manary Praia is the perfect point from which to explore nearby attractions such as Genipabu and Pipa beaches, Fernando de Noronha, or further afield Cariri. (www.manary.com.br)