Pousada D'Oliver

The hotel has a really good setup, but they don't know how to manage it, welcome guests, or keep things clean. Breakfast wasn't replenished. There was no attention to hygiene: the towels smelled as if they'd been used and hung out to dry, then left for the next guests. Our room smelled strongly of mold, so I asked to move. Even in the other room, the towels and bed linen still smelled bad, and they don't change them after guests leave. My wife slept wrapped in a blanket we'd brought so she wouldn't have to touch the sheet. It's disgusting and absurd. There's no security either. They don't ask guests for identification, and they don't welcome people properly. If you're particular, think carefully before staying here. I booked after seeing the photos and some good reviews, and I was mistaken. It's a shame, because this place could be great if they'd take action.

The housekeeping was easily the best part: the rooms were spotless and orderly, breakfast had plenty of choice, and the cleaning staff were really kind and attentive. Still, after three days here with my family, we don't think we'll come back. Check-in was confusing, with one receptionist asking which floor we wanted, then handing us keys for the lower corridor, while another later spoke sharply and said we couldn't choose. Their information didn't match, and the reception team seemed unprepared to deal with guests. The inn is also far from places to eat. Food delivery apps won't reach it, so you need a car to find something in town. On top of that, the power kept cutting out, knocking out the internet, TV, and key system. It's not a cheap place, so I hope they take this as constructive feedback and put people at the front desk who want to help and can give clear information. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone I know right now.

We had a great stay, and the pool was the highlight. It was wonderful, and I think it may be heated. The little dogs at the pousada were lovely too. Our room was large, airy, clean, with a great shower and bed, and we used the air conditioning a lot during a very hot spell in Paraty. Breakfast was delicious with lots of choices. The location is between Paraty and Paraty Mirim, reached by a short dirt road, so it suits people after some quiet. The drive to central Paraty takes less than 20 minutes. Service was impeccable: we got tour suggestions and contacts for restaurants that deliver to the pousada, just using the room number. We ordered from Sabor Leggero, which I'd recommend. When my husband needed to take an exam, they promptly let him use the staff dining room. Ten out of ten.

The only things I'd change are practical: have someone on duty at night in case a problem comes up, and ask the city to put wood or stones on the stretch just past the bridge. When it rains, a deep puddle forms there, leaving only one side passable, and if that side sinks too, getting through will be very difficult. Otherwise, we loved our stay and are already recommending it to family and friends. My family had a wonderful time. The pousada was clean and well cared for throughout, with no musty smell anywhere. Our room was one of the best I've stayed in while traveling: roomy, with strong air conditioning, a smart TV, minibar, balcony clothesline, spacious bathroom, and a very powerful shower. The sheets were clean, soft, and smelled fresh, as did the mattress and pillows. Breakfast was complete and high quality, with several kinds of pão de queijo, including my favorite stuffed with guava paste, plus bread, cakes, juice, yogurt, and fruit. Staff kept everything replenished. The children's area had windows and air conditioning. I didn't see any cockroaches, even in the heat with lots of doors open. The reviews I'd read surprised me; it didn't seem like the same place.