Mountain Retreat - Paraiso Pousada, Petropolis (April ´11)

A three hour drive from Rio, through mountains and rainforest, took us on our first mini-break away with some of our new friends. In a very steep sided valley the Pousado encompasses 160 acres of rainforest, a natural pool fed by seven waterfalls and all of this above 1,000m altitude...

In total 6 families decided to go, which consisted of 13 children ranging from 2 to 10 years of age and 10 adults, a fair size party I would say. Luckily we had this amazing poussada all to ourselves. It provided all the activities needed to keep both adults and children occupied for days. So once the cars were parked, that is where they stayed,  as the next 3 days were spent endulging in our surroundings...

Our cosy accomodation was suited to its surroundings. The log burning stove in the bedroom was a bit of a give away to the night-time temperatures...

Being in this wonderful natural environment clearly brought out the tribal instincts...

Follow the leader down to the creek... 

umm looks inviting but cold...  Rob definiately took to chilling in this rather cool natural pool..... notice that he is alone!

The rest of us looked on whilst on a gentle bicycle ride to nowhere....

It wasn´t long before Rob was joined by a few more of those that dared...

The natural pool made a perfect landing point for those who abseiled ...

There was time to stretch our legs and enjoy a trek into the Mata Atlanica rainforest on our doorstep, where a variety of species were waiting be spotted. So with binoculars in hand and walking shoes laced up, we set off on our trail. 

After a short climb the sight of Maria Comprida (in Araras) was revealed - a local fertility symbol - can you spot it?

This beautiful scenic walk lead us to a small waterfall... looks like Rory has spotted something...

.... native plants and flowers

Other activities that we enjoyed were archery, mini golf, paddle (cross between ourdoor squash and tennis), volleyball, table tennis, tree planting and art and craft.

Our friends Milena and Alex brought a balance bike for Rory to ride on, he absolutely loved it ...

 Of course time was found for a bit of fishing in the pools of the creek.....

 it was pretty successful ...

 

We had great weather, fresh air of the highest quality, plenty of opportunities to exercise, delicious food, and best of all - super company xxxx