At CULTERRA, we celebrate the beauty of the natural world through exquisite framed art. For this first installment in our travel blog series, we draw inspiration from Taylor’s art piece, Amplitude, as we explore the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Across the street from the iconic Roberto Burle Marx boardwalk depicted in the art piece, you'll find design-forward, luxury hotels that complement the CULTERRA ethos of elegance and sophistication. From the timeless art deco charm of Copacabana Beach to the modern allure of Leblon, these hotels provide the perfect backdrop for a luxurious stay. Immerse yourself in the artistry of Rio and let the city’s natural and cultural beauty inspire you.
Rio de Janeiro Hotel Guide
Copacabana Beach
Experience the opulence of the Belmond Copacabana Palace, a beacon of art deco design and a destination for the world’s elite. This iconic hotel, much like our framed artwork, combines classic elegance with modern luxury. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining at two of this hotel’s restaurants:
- Cipriani: Indulge in refined Italian cuisine.
- Mee: Savor the diverse flavors of Pan-Asian fusion.
Courtesy of Emiliano Rio de Janeiro
Embrace the essence of Brazilian modernism at Emiliano, where the design is inspired by the artwork of Roberto Burle Marx, the genius behind the Copacabana sidewalk featured in Amplitude. Offering exceptional service and a luxurious spa, Emiliano ensures a stay that mirrors the requiescence found in CULTERRA's framed art.
Ipanema Beach
Courtesy of Fasano Rio de Janeiro
Designed by French architect Philippe Starck, the Fasano Rio de Janeiro pays homage to mid-century modern design, much like our framed art deco inspired pieces. With a famed infinity rooftop pool that offers panoramic views of Ipanema Beach, this hotel reflects the spirit of the 1950s and 1960s Brazilian design. Starck included unique aesthetic features in each room, like the Salvador Dali-esque ear-shaped mirrors and Sergio Rodrigues chairs.
Arpoador Beach
Images Courtesy of Hotel Arpoador
For those seeking a boutique experience, Hotel Arpoador offers stylish affordability. Its sophisticated simplicity is epitomized by its seamless integration of nature and urban elements. Located a stone's throw from the beach and the main attractions of the neighborhood, this boutique hotel offers a welcoming experience in the heart of it all. Enjoy the unique experience of dining at tables on the boardwalk with an award-winning chef, ensuring every meal is a delight.
Leblon Beach
Images Courtesy of Janeiro Hotel
The Janeiro Hotel in Leblon is a boutique, adults-only retreat that embodies modern sophistication and ethical sustainability. Curated by environmental activist and designer Oskar Metsavaht, the hotel seamlessly integrates nature with stylish design, much like CULTERRA's artwork. This hotel has stunning views of the Leblon waterfront, Ipanema and Arpoador, as well as the famous Christ the Redeemer statue and the iconic Dois Irmãos Mountain.
High-End Dining: A Culinary Journey
Images Courtesy of Lasai Rio-Brasil
Chef: Rafa Costa e Silva
Lasai emphasizes a "farm-to-table" approach, with many ingredients sourced from its own garden and local farms. The menu changes with the seasons, showcasing Brazil's diverse natural produce.
The surprise tasting menu features an array of appetizers and exceptional vegetarian dishes, all crafted with seasonal organic ingredients from the chef's gardens in Itanhangá and Vale das Videiras.
The restaurant combines rustic charm with urban sophistication, featuring reclaimed wood and vintage furnishings for a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Lasai is situated in Humaita, a neighborhood celebrated for its blend of traditional and contemporary culture.
Courtesy of Oro Restaurante
Chef: Felipe Bronze
Oro showcases a fusion of Brazilian flavors with modernist techniques, focusing on native ingredients, many from the Amazon.
Its two menus, the Afetividade and Criatividade menus (with two and four main courses, respectively) pay homage to the different regions of Brazil.
The dining room is sleek and contemporary, with a lively atmosphere reflecting Rio's infectious energy. Artful lighting and modern décor provide a sophisticated yet cozy setting.
Oro is situated in the upscale Leblon district, known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Courtesy of Mee & Belmond Copacabana Palace
Chef: Alberto Morisawa
Mee offers a pan-Asian menu featuring Japanese, Thai, and Korean dishes, bringing unique flavors to Rio.
The restaurant is celebrated for its sushi bar and "Omakase" menu, highlighting the freshest seafood.
The ambiance is a blend of traditional Asian and modern design, creating an elegant, exotic atmosphere. The framed art on the wall by Belgian artist Christian Develter, inspired by the intricately tattooed faces of Chin women from Myanmar, is truly spectacular!
Mee is located in the iconic Copacabana Palace, adding a touch of Asian elegance to this historic hotel.
Courtesy of Oteque
Chef: Alberto Landgraf
Oteque's menu is a harmonious blend of Brazilian and European influences, focusing on the purity and flavor of each ingredient. The restaurant is renowned for its exceptional seafood dishes.
Chef Landgraf offers a single bespoke tasting menu that varies with the seasons, featuring dishes that are substituted daily based on the availability of the freshest ingredients.
The minimalist and chic interior provides an intimate dining experience, with an open kitchen that allows diners to observe the culinary artistry firsthand.
Oteque is nestled in the Botafogo neighborhood, a district increasingly known for its culinary innovation.
CULTERRA 3-Day Luxury Itinerary in Rio de Janeiro
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
Arrive and check into your chosen design-forward hotel, such as the Belmond Copacabana Palace or Emiliano (or any of the above hotels).
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the iconic Copacabana Beach boardwalk, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful views.
Indulge in a spa treatment at your hotel to unwind from your travels.
Savor a relaxed dinner at Michelin Star restaurant, Mee, located in the Belmond Copacabana Palace, indulging in exquisite Pan-Asian fusion cuisine in an elegant setting.
Day 2: Cultural and Culinary Exploration
Enjoy a sophisticated brunch at Restaurante Pérgula, located in the Belmond Copacabana Palace.
Explore the Botanical Garden, home to over 7,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants.
Tour the Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum, designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
Experience the flavors of Oro, where Chef Felipe Bronze presents a modernist take on Brazilian cuisine.
Day 3: Sightseeing & Beach Leisure
Take a helicopter tour over Sugarloaf Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer Statue.
Relax at the infinity rooftop pool of the Fasano Rio de Janeiro, enjoying panoramic views of Ipanema Beach.
Enjoy lunch just steps from Ipanema Beach at Zazá Bistrô, a colorful and charming restaurant that offers an eclectic mix of Brazilian and international cuisine with a focus on organic ingredients.
Explore the upscale shops and cafes in the vibrant Leblon district.
Conclude your trip with a sunset drink at Bar Urca, taking in stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the city.
Courtesy of Taylor O'Sullivan
Whether you're drawn to the historic art deco charm of the Belmond Copacabana Palace, the mid-century modern elegance of Fasano, or the contemporary sophistication of Janeiro Hotel, Rio de Janeiro’s beach boardwalk offers beautiful accommodations and dining options that resonate with the CULTERRA philosophy. Each hotel and restaurant provides a unique experience, reflecting the requiescence and beauty captured in our printed art and framed artworks. Explore these luxurious havens and bring a piece of Rio's elegance into your home with CULTERRA's fine art collection.
