Vila Galé Eco Resort de Angra

This sprawling resort is situated on a gorgeous property right by the beach and surrounded by mountains. It was previously the Fazenda Tangua, and the Vila Gale chain has preserved some of the original buildings of the former hacienda. Guests check-in at the huge lobby, which has multiple seating areas with sofas and chairs, though there are plenty of other places that are better for kicking back or indulging in the hotel's all-inclusive rates. Unfortunately, some of the interiors are looking a little run-down. Outside, in addition to palm trees and other lush tropical vegetation, the well-maintained grounds feature ponds, grassy sections, walkways, and benches along the way where guests can pause to take in the beauty of the natural setting. Because of its extensive facilities for children, this resort is especially popular with families. With that in mind it's not exactly a quiet, romantic escape, particularly as visitors here tend to hang out on the resort's extensive grounds for the entirety of their trip. Aside from families, this Vila Gale also draws conference groups, and occasionally some couples.

This resort is situated between a calm beach and the Atlantic rainforest, with thick jungles and mountains all around. Guests can drive to Angra dos Reis -- a popular tourist destination that's legendary for its beaches -- in about 15 to 20 minutes. Boating trips to nearby islands are a popular activity, including to Ilha Grande, which has beautiful beaches and protected rainforests. Cars are not allowed on the island, so it's a favored hiking spot. Marina Piratas can be reached in about 30 minutes by car. Plan on just under three hours to reach the airport in Rio de Janeiro by car.

Rooms and suites are spacious and outfitted with tile floors, clean-lined wooden furniture with marble tops, modern artwork, and mustard-colored accent walls. Unfortunately, they're looking a bit tired, and we spotted stains on some walls as well as slightly worn furniture. All have air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, safes, and mini-fridges. Limited Wi-Fi is provided for free, then for a fee. Sliding glass doors open to balconies, with views of the sea, pool, or forest. Outdoor furniture consists of wicker chairs and a small table, with lounge chairs on some. Bathrooms aren't particularly exciting, but they feature granite countertops, magnifying mirrors, hairdryers, and toiletries. Tubs and showers are separate, and robes and slippers are provided. Suites add bidets, plus separate living and dining areas. Although it looks a little dated, the Presidential Suite has a kitchenette with a sink, microwave, and larger refrigerator, plus a whirlpool in the bathroom and another on its large balcony.

This resort offers most everything needed for a beach vacation, especially for families. Unfortunately, not everything is quite up to spec, and while there are numerous bar and restaurant options as part of the hotel's all-inclusive rates, food only gets mediocre reviews. The main restaurant, Versatil, serves all meals, including a breakfast buffet. Two dinner-only restaurants require reservations: Inevitavel serves Mediterranean fare, while local and Portuguese fare is on the menu at Fado e Samba. Casa da Fazenda is the place for lunch and afternoon snacks, and there's also a special restaurant for children that's colorful and bright. Bars are located by the pool, on the beach, and in the lobby. The Soul & Blues Disco has live music or a DJ. The huge outdoor pool has a bar in the middle where guests can swim up for a drink. The surrounding deck has plenty of space, with many lounge chairs underneath umbrellas and palapas for shade. Active guests can play water volleyball or swim laps, and children get their own shallow pool. Palm trees and other greenery plus the mountains create a nice tropical vibe. The wide sandy beach is beautiful, with palm trees and mountains on three sides. Guests can relax on lounge chairs shaded by umbrellas and the trees, or go swimming, kayaking, or sailing. A strip of grassy lawn also provides lounge chairs. The Satsanga Spa offers massages and other treatments, as well as a sauna and Turkish bath. Huts are available for outdoor treatments. The spacious fitness center has multiple cardio and weight-training machines, plus free weights. An indoor game room provides foosball, billiards, air hockey, and table tennis. Outdoor recreation includes tennis and basketball, plus water sports. The sandy outdoor playground features swings, slides, and climbing equipment. Indoors, the colorful kids' club features games, toys, and crafts. A nursery with several cribs takes care of the youngest guests. Conference facilities include a large business center with sofas and chairs plus workstations with computers for guests to use. The 11 meeting rooms accommodate business and leisure gatherings of various sizes, and Wi-Fi is free in public areas. Parking is also free.