Hotel Casa da Montanha

With classic Bavarian architecture, the facade of this hotel looks every bit the chalet thanks to the wooden exterior and balconies with intricate cutouts. A whimsical carousel out front also adds to the sense that one might be in a fantastical Alpine retreat, not southern Brazil. Once inside, the property has the feel of a colonial hunting estate with antique wooden furniture, brass lamps, and animal trophy heads mounted on the walls. There is a large dark-wood front desk and the small lobby feels like a classic study, with velvet high back chairs, stuffed couches, tapestries, and oil paintings. Beyond the lobby there are plenty of cozy common areas, including a room with plaid wallpaper, a handsome hooded fireplace, and a piano in case a guest feels inspired. There is a warmth and social vibe that makes this hotel feel particularly inviting to the couples and families who visit, and overall the atmosphere is casual and relaxed.

Gramado is a mountain retreat in Rio Grande do Sul that's been attracting Brazilians to its quaint (and touristy) mountain atmosphere for years. Immediately surrounding the hotel are the town's shops and restaurants, and almost everything is walkable from here. It takes about 3 minutes to walk to the Korvatunturi Theater. Mini Mundo, where replicas of famous landmarks around the world are miniaturized, is a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Lago Negro (Black Lake), which looks lifted out of Bavaria as well and has plenty of walking trails, is about 10 minutes away by car depending on traffic. The closest airport is in Porto Alegre, about two hours from the hotel by road. Free parking is available at this hotel.

These rooms have a homey charm to them and decor varies from room to room, though there are some datedness issues throughout. Wallpaper, carpeted floors, and furniture with antique silhouettes make up most of the space, while bright wall art adds pops of color. The rooms vary in size from Deluxe Rooms to Themed Suites that have specific decorations such as the holiday-centric Christmas Suite. There are also bi-level suites suitable for families, and higher level bookings, like the Master Suite we visited, have extras like proper stereos. All rooms are kept clean, and modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, climate controls, stocked minibars, and coffeemakers. Bathrooms likewise vary in style, and many of the rooms have showers only, though larger suites also have baths, and there are some mineral stains on fixtures. Bathrobes and toiletries are provided. There is some internal noise throughout the hotel and the quietest rooms are on the upper floors. Rooms at the front of the hotel with balconies have excellent views of the town and the mountains beyond -- if it's within guests' budgets, these are worth the extra cost. Thoughtful touches such as umbrellas provided for guest use in case of stormy weather and chocolates left on the pillows at night add to the personal charm here. 

In the true Gramado style, this hotel features a terrific daily buffet breakfast that's included with the room rate. There is a wide selection of freshly baked breads and other standard morning fare, though the breakfast room can get crowded at peak times. Bistro da Varanda, a corner area next to the hotel balcony, serves light bites, finger foods, and cocktails. Dinner is available at La Caceria, which is the hotel's upscale restaurant, and includes traditional Brazilian grilled meats and an extensive wine list. Room service is also available within limited hours. Drinks can be enjoyed in the hotel bar, which has an old-fashioned tea room vibe with its pink counter, pink-striped wallpaper, and floral upholstered chairs.  The indoor pool has a sauna and whirlpool directly adjacent to the deck area, and a patio just beyond the enclosed glass. There's also fruit-infused water, towels, and float toys found at the pool. While there isn't a full-service spa, there is a tranquil massage room where 10 different types of body treatment services can be booked. The room is decorated with natural woods, earth tones, and Eastern statuary. The small fitness center offers a few pieces of cardio equipment, a weight bench, some dumbbells, and ankle weights; water and fruit are thoughtful touches here. Bicycles are also available for guest use at no extra charge, and there is a kids' play area stocked with toys, dolls, and activities. The hotel has three meeting and event rooms and there are two computers for guest use. Wi-Fi throughout is free.