In the southern part of the state of Rio de Janeiro, there is a place known for a collection of islands worthy of royalty: Angra dos Reis, the Bay of Kings. Within this coveted area, which is only a 2.5-hour drive west of bustling Rio de Janeiro, sits a private 29-acre peninsula that embraces the natural beauty of Brazil’s coastal woodlands while providing resort-quality style to its owner. At the same time you are very close to town if you need any supplies.

Well-known architects considered the landscape in their project designs, creating buildings with open floor plans and expansive verandahs that complement the region’s year-round balmy climate and seafront locale. The 7,333-square-foot main house looks across a 118-foot infinity pool that matches the color of the sea beyond its edge. It's fully equipped with a living room; indoor-outdoor dining room with an extra-long wood table; gourmet kitchen with wood-burning oven and beer tap; and a sauna with a glass wall overlooking the water. With its amenities and central position, it’s perfect for entertaining. Cozy sleeping quarters are cocooned into the Atlantic Forest in the form of three pairs of 930-square-foot bungalows and a 2,288-square-foot master suite – all with patios overlooking the sea and private entrances. An additional four-bedroom, two-bath home with a ranch provides staff quarters. Careful consideration was given to placement of the accommodations to ensure privacy for every Praia do Algodão visitor. State service or generator power provides electricty, and there is water, cable, and internet on site.

Access to the peninsula is only via helicopter into the Praia do Algodão Heliport (SJTE) or boat; but despite the remote feel, it’s a short distance to the Hotel do Frade Golf resort in Angra dos Reis. Hop a helicopter and it’s only 45 minutes to Rio or 90 minutes to São Paulo.

Only 20 percent of spectacular Praia do Algodão is dedicated to development, preserving a surrounding Atlantic Forest ecosystem with biodiversity to rival the Amazon. Even the area containing the residences has an abundance of pupunha palms and other fruitbearing trees, which attract a variety of colorful birds. Porcupines make the rare cameo as well.

The compound overlooks 656 feet of private golden beach and an expanse of calm, clear sea where dolphins and turtles are frequent visitors.

Praia do Algodão could be easily expanded into a luxury resort or maintained as a private estate. It’s also possible to rent the peninsula for a one-of-a kind retreat anytime of year that you want to soak up the sun in style.