Palácio Tangará

São Paulo, Brazil

The lowdown A bastion of contemporary elegance in an exquisite neoclassical mansion.

Best for Serenity after days in Brazil’s busiest metropolis. Once the private home of a playboy billionaire’s wife, Palácio Tangará is now better known as São Paulo’s most exclusive hotel. The impressive mansion sits in a luscious, rainforest-adjacent landscaped estate moments from Morumbi, the smartest residential district in town. An elegant grande dame shielded from the relentless buzz of the city, guests flock there for its sense of subtle, old-school glamour. Whether reclining by the pool, taking tea in the lounge or relaxing in the Sisley spa, this is the place for weary travellers to chill. The jewel in the hotel’s already well-adorned crown is its Jean-george Vongerichten restaurant, recently awarded a Michelin star. The light, Asian-inspired food incorporates a touch of local Brazilian cuisine and is proving a hit with international foodies. Supremely comfortable bedrooms are decorated in a palette of neutrals – our favourites are the Prestige rooms, all of which have glorious, balustrade-lined terraces ideal for gazing out over the gardens beyond. Book it Deluxe double rooms from £183 (oetkercollection.com).

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP The Suite Panamby offers luxurious accommodation; Prestige rooms have private terraces; and head poolside for the perfect antidote to the frenetic pace of the city