Nestled in the refined neighborhood of Leblon, JANEIRO Hotel captures the emotional essence of Rio, balancing barefoot beach culture with sophisticated metropolitan energy in a way that feels both effortless and deeply personal. From waking to panoramic ocean views and ending evenings wrapped in plush robes with tea at turndown, to spontaneous, heartfelt gestures like freshly opened coconuts delivered before even asking, every moment feels intuitive and thoughtfully curated. The rooftop sunsets, the seamless beach service, the art and literature woven throughout the interiors, and the gentle hum of Rio’s tropical lifestyle beyond the windows all combine to create a sanctuary that is at once vibrant and serene. Rooted in a philosophy of conscious luxury, JANEIRO Hotel transforms a stay in Rio de Janeiro into a journey about sustainability, community empowerment, and design sophistication.
Our stay at JANEIRO Hotel in Rio de Janeiro was nothing short of perfect.
For those considering their next luxury travel destination, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil offers a rare balance of world-class beaches, vibrant city life, and an effortless tropical rhythm. I have yet to find anywhere else in the world that blends an abundance of fresh fruit, seafood, and wildlife with such a distinctly metropolitan energy. Rio de Janeiro feels undeniably alive, and JANEIRO Hotel in Leblon becomes an intimate portal through which to experience it all.
Opened in 2018, JANEIRO Hotel is an intimate, design-forward luxury hotel with just 51 rooms, a panoramic rooftop bar and pool, a tucked-away spa oasis, and thoughtfully curated amenities that reflect a deep reverence for Brazilian culture and craftsmanship. The hotel was conceived as a modern sanctuary, honoring Rio’s natural beauty while elevating it through intentional, understated design. Located in Leblon, one of Rio de Janeiro’s most desirable and refined neighborhoods, the atmosphere is noticeably calmer than Copacabana, with newer infrastructure, fewer crowds, and a more residential pace. Every detail at JANEIRO feels deliberate and uncompromised, from shelves lined with books on history, philosophy, and design, to original works by renowned Brazilian artists displayed throughout the property, to impeccably plush beach towels that quietly signal the level of care invested here. Guests may also borrow bicycles to explore portions of the 26-kilometer coastal bike path, one of the longest continuous bike trails in the Americas. As a Virtuoso-affiliated luxury hotel, JANEIRO extends preferred amenities including daily breakfast and a massage for two, further enhancing an already exceptional stay.
We arrived early on a Sunday morning and were warmly welcomed at check-in, with the team seamlessly storing our luggage while we explored Leblon’s famous Sunday market. Vendors filled the nearby square, and we were immediately immersed in Brazil’s artisanal culture and creative spirit. Shortly after returning, we were delighted to receive early check-in. Our oceanfront suite was extraordinary, featuring state-of-the-art interiors and uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean from nearly every angle, including the shower and soaking tub. Each evening, turndown service awaited us with tea and biscuits, a ritual that felt both comforting and indulgent. One of my favorite aspects of the stay was the beach service. JANEIRO elevates the iconic Rio beach experience by providing chairs, umbrellas, and towels within moments of arrival, while the attentive beach team remains available for drinks and food. Every logistical detail is handled, allowing you to simply arrive, exhale, and enjoy the Brazilian coastline in its most effortless form.
What truly distinguishes JANEIRO Hotel, however, is its ability to create moments that feel both intuitive and magical. We are admittedly obsessed with fresh coconut water, especially the jelly inside, so we purchased two coconuts nearby and called the front desk hoping the team could help us open them. Moments later, there was a knock at the door. It was Mariana, one of the guest experience specialists, holding two freshly opened coconuts with straws, smiling as she explained that she had already been on her way with coconuts for us when she received the call asking if she could help open ours. It was a small yet unforgettable moment, the purest expression of five-star hospitality. This is service at its highest level, knowing your guests, anticipating their preferences, and delivering delight without prompting. Later, Mariana helped us set up our television to watch a Netflix special, all while we relaxed in plush robes overlooking the ocean.
As much as JANEIRO Hotel in Leblon excels in design and service, it is equally committed to sustainability and responsible travel. Curated by Oskar Metsavaht, a Brazilian artist, academic, fashion designer, environmental activist and Amazon guardian, with a philosophy rooted in “new luxury,” the hotel integrates sustainable ethics into every facet of its operation, guided by the ASAP (“As Sustainable As Possible, As Soon As Possible”) mindset. Certified practices by Instituto-e prioritize materials, suppliers, and processes with lower socio-environmental impact, and the hotel actively supports coastal restoration through the Restinga Project to preserve native sand-forest ecosystems on Rio’s beaches. If you’re ready to learn more about how JANEIRO demonstrates luxury hospitality aligned with thoughtful stewardship, or excited to integrate this property into your next itinerary, contact us directly at 6047367447 or nstravel@nstravel.ca or submit your interest here.
Needless to say, these are the details that linger long after checkout, and exactly why JANEIRO Hotel in Rio de Janeiro is a property I confidently recommend as a Travel Ambassador with North South Travel.