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Honey Island

July 14, 2013
Garden house on Ilha do Mel

Ilha do Mel: Relax on an island in the South Atlantic Ocean

Ilha do Mel (in English: Honey Island) is one of nature’s gems located in Paranagua bay in the state of Parana. It is one of the most beautiful islands in Brazil, a place where you can relax from the stress of the city. Idyllic paths lead through forests, past rocks and hilly landscapes, as well as through small villages. The island of Ilha do Mel has just under 1000 inhabitants and 22 miles (35 kilometers) of beach along which you might walk during your Brazil trip.
There are no roads or cars on the island, and more than 90% of the area is protected. For this reason, a limit of 5000 visitors per day are allowed on the island.
The north of the island is relatively flat, while in the southern part there are several small mountains and elevations. One of them is Morro Bento Alves, which measures 495 feet (151 meters) high and is the tallest mountain on the island. Another sight to see on Ilha do Mel is the lighthouse "Farol de Conchas" built-in 1872. To visit the tower, you must first climb a collection of 150 steps and ramps that lead up to the lighthouse. Once on the hill, you will have a fantastic view over the entire island. Enjoy a quiet moment and view the green paradise from above. The fortress of Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres is also worth a visit. The fortress, built from 1767 - 1770, served as protection against pirates and Spanish conquerors, and its construction was commissioned by the Portuguese King Dom José I. Today, visitors can see the sturdy protective walls up close and are even able to see 18th-century cannons during their tour. The visit to the fortress of Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres combines perfectly with a walk on the beach, for if you follow the Fortaleza beach section at low tide, you will end up at the foot of the fortress after a short hike. At this part of the beach, the sea is considered particularly calm, making it an excellent place to test the water temperature of the Atlantic Ocean.

Insider tips for your vacation: the most beautiful beaches on the island

If the water is your element, don't miss out on the strong waves at Praia Grande beach and the chance to hop on your surfboard. The beach is located at the southern part of the island and apart from the picturesque view of the lighthouse, Praia Grande also has crystal clear water and a is located in the midst of untouched nature.
If you get hungry after an eventful day on this beautiful island, you will surely find what you are looking for at Praia Encantadas. This part of the island is known for its numerous bars and restaurants. In this cozy atmosphere, you might start making plans for the next day, as there is a wide selection of hiking trails, bike routes, and paradisiacal beaches to visit.

Paraná inspires: modernity meets nature

So, should you feel ready for an island adventure, Ilha de Mel is the right destination for you! Here you can enjoy the tranquillity of nature to its fullest.
On the 4-day travel package "Discover Ilha do Mel via Serra Verde Express" you will not only get to know this beautiful island off the Atlantic coast, but you will also discover the capital of the state of Paraná: The city of Curitiba has a wide range of cultural offerings for you to explore. Stroll through Curitiba's Botanical Garden or visit the famous Oscar Niemeyer Museum. Not only is the construction of the museum quite unique, as its oval shape is reminiscent of an eye floating above the ground, but the designs and sculptures in the exhibition rooms are a delight to art lovers.
After exploring Curitiba, either on your own or on a guided city tour, the next morning you will take the train through the impressive Serra do Mar. The mountain range runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, and the train will take you directly to a small village community. From there you will continue your journey in a van, which will take you to the Atlantic coast. Here you can hop onto a boat, which will take you to the idyllic island of Ilha do Mel. During the boat ride, you will witness a phenomenal panorama which gives you a small taste of honey Island. A visit to the state of Paraná is worthwhile and is easily combined with other destinations on your vacation to Brazil. The neighbouring states hold numerous natural beauties for you to visit, and you are sure to be amazed by their picturesque landscapes. We are happy to assist you in planning your trip to ensure you fulfil all of your travel wishes.

Source: Aventura do Brasil