Postcard from Cari Gray, New York, October 2009

When Ponta dos Ganchos (pontadosganchos.com.br) opened in 2002, Brazilian couples flocked from Sao Paulo and Rio in search of the ultimate romantic escape. Located 25 miles north of the surf capital of Florianopolis, the resort was the essence of relaxed elegance from the start. Now Pon ta dos Ganchos boasts even more international lovers (thanks in part to being the first hotel in Brazil to join the Relais & Chateaux portfolio). The hotel has also been the recipient of countless awards and accolades for both its high- end hospitality and cuisine.

All this has been achieved by the visionary brother-and-sister hoteliers Nicolas and Virginia Peluffo. ’11te siblings initially collaborated with their father to orchestrate the construction of the original fifteen spacious private villas overlooking the ocean, spread across a spectacular peninsula with a private beach. Now Nicolas and Virginia run the show, and just added an additional five luxury bungalows in December 2008. Their success is most closely attributed to their pursuit of excellence, especially as it relates to details.

The pace of the resort is very slow and beguiling, which draws a lot of couples and honeymooners. Hike to the nearby fishing village, boat out to get fresh oysters and mussels, relax on the beach, or soak in your own private hot tub, gazing up at the clear, star-filled sky. Ponta dos Ganchos deserves its position high on the lists of those seeking a relaxing retreat for two. \¥hat’s left for the Peluffo duo to accomplish when they tum thirty? Let’s wait and see.

Indagare members receive special VIP benefits from Relais and Chateaux.