Review of Vila Santa Teresa

You will forever remember the majestic views from Vila Santa Teresa. But the warm and welcoming staff and impeccable service will make you want to come back to this historical vila. 

Amenities

• Open-air massage
• Spa services and steam room
• Outdoor functional training
• Guided estate walks
• High-tea in the garden
• On-site restaurant 
• Guided boteco and shopping tours

Check-in

After staying in Ipanema for one week, I made my way up the winding roads to Santa Teresa. I felt a bit anxious as I approached the security check-point at the grand gates of this historic vila. The guards checked my reservation details and we drove for another 5 mins up a series of steep hills, passing lush gardens and few mansions along the way. Towards the end of the ride I was nervously double checking my reservation details as I wasn’t exactly sure what I had signed myself up for. We finally approached a white vila at the top of the hill. I thanked the Uber driver and made my way towards the non-descript entrance, suspense at all time high. As I stepped inside the vila, there was a 50/50 chance that I was intruding on a private home of a very important person! A few moments later a gentleman greeted me with a warm smile and introduced himself as the Manager and that he had been awaiting my arrival. I let out a sigh of relief. 

Room

Staying in one of the beautifully decorated rooms at Vila Santa Teresa feels like you are a guest of honor at your friend’s private mansion (not that I have any friends that own mansions). I could feel that the owner put thought and care into every detail of the room. I found two lemon tarts and a Granny Smith apple as a welcome gift upon check-in. Complementary ground coffee and French press is provided along with instructions so that you can start your morning at a leisurely pace with a perfect cup of coffee in hand. 

Breakfast

Breakfast was included in my room rate and it was fabulous. The waiter set the table as follows: orange juice, green juice, freshly brewed coffee (or Iced Americano), fresh fruits, bread basket (divine), cold cut meats, variety of cheeses, and an assortment of jams. I was also able to place an order of scrambled eggs. Everything was so delicious and made even better by the magnificent views. 

Pool lounge

The views from the terrace by the pool is simply breathtaking. I spent entire afternoons looking out to the Sugarloaf Mountain and the glistening Guanabara Bay. I highly recommend their specialty Caipirinha that is made with three types of limes. It was hands down the best cocktail I had during my time in Rio.   

Dinner

I dined at the onsite restaurant twice and it was a magical experience both times. Service was so personable and the dishes were outstanding. I was the only guest so I had the whole dining hall to myself. You can see below the specialty caipirinha made with three different kinds of lime, which I practically had at morning, noon and night. 

Cost

I paid on average $1,622 Reais ($310 USD) per night including taxes and fees in March 2022. Breakfast was included in this nightly rate. 

Security

The vila is located inside a private, gated and guarded community. I also felt safe as I wondered through the quiet streets of Santa Teresa neighborhood. 

In Rio it pays to be aware of your surroundings at all times and “blend-in.” This means not wearing designer clothes, keeping jewelry to a minimum, not displaying electronics etc while out in public. The well to do Cariocas (residents of Rio) go to considerable lengths to ensure they are not displaying wealth and visitors should take this page out of their book.