Brazil’s Hotel Das Cataratas Joins Orient-Express

Orient-Express has relaunched Hotel das Cataratas following renovations. The hotel offers a retreat next to the stunning Iguazu Falls, which lie on the border of Brazil and Argentina.

First opened as a hotel in 1958, Hotel das Cataratas is a two-story Portuguese colonial building.

Iguazu Falls is a two-minute stroll from the hotel, and the property is surrounded by nearly 700 square miles of national park. The décor of the 193 guest rooms, including 15 suites, was inspired by the traditional Portuguese style and feature paintings of the local flora and fauna by well known Brazilian artist, Ludmilla de Montes.

Traditional Azulejos painted tiles, specially designed for Hotel das Cataratas, have also been used throughout the property, further enhancing the Portuguese history of the hotel. Many of the 16 Cataratas Deluxe Rooms boast lovely views of the falls, as do the Tower and Cataratas Suites.

A new spa opening at the end of October will offer an array of treatments from the Brazilian brand, Natura, which uses tropical fruits from the area, as well as ingredients sourced from the Amazon. There will be five treatment rooms as well as a relaxation room and a sauna.

Hotel das Cataratas has two restaurants. The Restaurante Itaipu serves a blend of Brazilian and international cuisine at breakfast, lunch and dinner, located on the ground floor of the main building, with a veranda for al fresco dining.

By the main pool, the Ipê Bar & Grill is named after a local wood and serves light snacks throughout the day and a churrascaria (South American style meat barbecue) with live music for dinner. The terraces surrounding the hotel have been extended, allowing guests to dine al fresco.

On the hotel’s grounds is the Belvedere Look-out Point, which offers unparalleled views of the falls and a perfect photo opportunity. Rates for a double room at Hotel das Cataratas start at $375 per room per night, including breakfast.