nova friburgo is an idyllic mountain town in the interior of rio de janeiro state - originally founded by german and swiss immigrants (who christened it as such, portuguese for new fribourg), it is popular today for its alpine architecture, beautiful landscapes and fresh temperatures, and many great places to rest at night.

those with intention to stay in total luxury need look no further than refúgio dos falcões, referred to as a pousada spa (spa, bed and breakfast), the locale nonetheless has much more to offer - located in the middle of 300,000 square meters of privately-owned forest, refúgio boasts of two pools.