We were a group in Brazil to partake and celebrate one of our friends' wedding; and honestly we couldn't have asked for any better basecamp. From the booking request to the final key exchange Paulo and the great staff headed by Fernando were all downright helpful, accommodating and ensured a very homey feeling in this amazing mansão (mansion), which really exceeding our expectations far and beyond.
This is indeed a sparkling "casa blanca" and really the pictures don't do it justice. We have no words! The place is spread across four different floors (three with the respective rooms, incl. the master bedroom on the top floor, and one floor with a great dining/living room and lounge area), as well as a large infinity pool with stunning views of the bay and even Christ the Redeemer on a clear day. The views from the various patios, whilst you may enjoy a sip of your morning coffee or a caipirinha at sunset makes one not want to leave again.
The place is fully equipped, although we were missing a dishwasher (okay, there is always a snake in paradise and this around it was the dishes - that said, Fernando & co. offers daily maid and in-house chef services, and even do the groceries - all comes with a surcharge).
The place is really bigger than the pictures seem to tell. It's clean, full of light from the great panaroma windows, the Wi-Fi works fine (if you'll even need that against the calm and tranquil feel around the estate), and - again - the views are picture perfect.
Ipanema Beach is merely some 20-25 minutes away, a well stocked supermarket is located in Jão just down the hill (doesn't really take foreign credit cards, but you'll find ATMs easily) - and you'll quickly find that good times travel fast.
Basically this place, Paulo, Fernando & co. certainly deserves our very best and warmest recommendation, and we're already looking to return one day and take in what Rio's finest spot has to offer. Muito obrigado!