LUXURY TRAVEL MAGAZINE
“Members of the Pataxó Indian tribe – who gave UXUA its marvelous name – live on this reserve, at the entrance of a national park 36 km from Trancoso. Called the Indian Reserve Barra Velha, 500 Pataxo tribe families call this naturally beautiful strip of coastline home, living off of their agricultural, fishing and handicraft efforts and demonstrating a lifestyle probably in evidence when the first Portuguese arrived to these shores. The Monte Pascual national park next to the Indian reservation displays much of the spectacular virgin Atlantic forest that has made the area renowned for its beauty.
With 2 rivers in tiny Trancoso alone, canoeing is an ideal pastime while staying at UXUA. Guests can explore the exotic plant life lining the river beds, commune with nature and get a workout, all at the same time. For more adventurous souls UXUA recommends guided tours starting hours upstream from Trancoso, and take a one- to two-hour trip back armed with helmet and paddle.
Because of Trancoso’s size and accessible nature, bicycles are tailor-made for traversing its small roads and trails. The area surrounding Trancoso is no different, provided one doesn’t mind dirt roads. Virgin bush, flowing rivers, spectacular valley views, and even glimpses of local life await bikers heading out for the lush green yonder, and guided tours are available if you are in a less spontaneous frame of mind.
If vehicles of the two-wheeled variety aren’t of interest, it’s possible to explore with two feet on the ground. The area is rich in trails that cross rivers and plumb the forest depths, revealing to visitors the extent of the natural beauty that comprises southern Bahia. These treks are generally accompanied by professional guides and can include 4-wheel drive, canoeing, cavalcade, and just about anything else that might enhance the trekking experience. Destinations are also variable, including Red Indian villages, historic churches, and fruit plantations.
Kite & windsurfing from August to December, when the Northeast wind blows into the town, can be considered “kite and windsurfing season” at Trancoso. Locals take advantage of this as often as they can, but guests without equipment are more than welcome to rent it from the neighboring village of Arraial D’Ajuda.
Snorkellers should do this math: there are 16 kilometers of coast along Trancoso. That spells paradise for lovers of flippers and funny headgear, who have an astonishing 8 beaches and countless reefs to explore. The best beaches for this activity: Nativos, Coqueiros, Itapororoca and even the privacy-loving Patimrim.
Always welcome to play, though they may want to be sure of their skills before challenging the local players, who show mercy to no-one.
While no tropical paradise nowadays seems complete without golf courses, Trancoso offers one which is truly spectacular. Terravista golf course looms above the ocean on cliffs about 12 km from Trancoso. It claims to be the first course in Brazil to feature TifEagle grass on all 18 greens, paving the way to a precise and fast putt. Golf carts and equipment are, naturally, available for rental.”