Le Relais de Marambaia

Le Relais de Marambaia: A Michelin Key Selected Retreat with Mixed Reviews

Le Relais de Marambaia, a Michelin Key Selected property nestled in the serene Barra de Guaratiba region of Rio de Janeiro State, offers guests a unique boutique hotel experience that balances natural beauty with personalized service. While praised for its breathtaking ocean views, intimate atmosphere, and delectable breakfast, the hotel also faces criticisms regarding maintenance and service inconsistencies.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general sentiment for Le Relais de Marambaia appears mixed, leaning towards positive for its unique setting and relaxing ambiance, but significantly impacted by recurring negative feedback. Guests frequently describe it as a "hidden treasure" and a "beautiful place". However, some experiences range from "very good" to "terrible," with reports of significant issues undermining the overall stay. The Michelin Key selection acknowledges its unique and quiet charm.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise the stunning ocean views and the hotel's tranquil, intimate atmosphere, often highlighting it as a perfect escape from the bustling city. The spa facilities, including hydrotherapy, a sauna, and a steam room, are noted amenities for relaxation. The design is characterized by pared-down post-modern Brazilian interior design, with minimalist touches complemented by rustic elements and French-inspired furnishings, creating an inviting rather than cold environment. The presence of an outdoor pool and the opportunity for activities like fishing and motorboating also add to its appeal.

3. Room Quality

Le Relais de Marambaia offers seven exclusive, spacious suites, all featuring private balconies with panoramic ocean views and ample natural light. The design incorporates polished hardwoods and soft, earthy tones. Many rooms are equipped with amenities like air conditioning, LCD TVs, separate lounge areas, and crucially, jetted tubs or Jacuzzis for ultimate relaxation. However, some guests have reported maintenance issues within the rooms, such as loose floor tiles, dirty hydro-massage tubs, stained pillows, and mold in shower heads.

4. Dining Experience

The breakfast is consistently highlighted as delicious and wonderful, featuring fresh fruits, juices, and pastries, often enjoyed with a view of the sea. The on-site restaurant, "Le Bateau" or "La Table de Marambaia," serves local fare and fresh Brazilian seafood with a distinct French influence, including dishes like grilled calamari, sole in a cashew crust, and shrimp stew with coconut milk. While the food itself receives positive comments, some guests have experienced exceptionally slow meal service, with wait times of almost two hours.

5. Service & Staff

Feedback on service is quite varied. Many guests describe the staff as "very sweet" and "pleasant and receptive to requests," doing an amazing job despite potential language barriers. Multilingual staff are available to assist guests. However, negative experiences include awkward check-ins where reservations seemed unknown, staff being difficult to locate, and a lack of apology from management after a power outage. The hotel aims to offer personalized and impeccable service.

6. Location & Accessibility

Le Relais de Marambaia is strategically located in Barra de Guaratiba, a tranquil and preserved area of Rio de Janeiro, offering a serene escape yet still accessible to city attractions. It is situated on a hillside overlooking the water, just steps from Telegraph Stone and a short walk (4-9 minutes) from Barra de Guaratiba Beach. Other nearby beaches like Grumari Beach and Praia do Perigoso are within 5 km. The hotel is approximately 40-55 km (about an hour's drive) from both Santos Dumont and Galeão Airports, and airport transfers can be arranged. While offering a sense of seclusion, it's about 46 km from Copacabana, providing a balance between nature and proximity to the city. On-site self-parking is available, though spots may be limited and charges apply.

7. Value & Pricing

The pricing for Le Relais de Marambaia can vary, with rates starting from approximately $82.49 per night for two adults. However, prices are subject to change and vary significantly by season, with November being the cheapest month (average 22% price drop) and August being the most expensive (average 50% price rise). Given its unique location, intimate setting, and spa amenities, many guests who have positive experiences consider it a worthwhile and valuable retreat, especially for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Rollaway beds are available for an additional BRL 150.0 per day.

8. Common Complaints

Recurring criticisms include maintenance issues such as loose floorboards, dirty Jacuzzis, broken doors, stained pillows, and mold in showers. Some guests have also reported slow service, particularly for meals, and difficulties finding staff when needed. A particularly severe complaint mentioned roaches in dining areas, the spa, and showers, along with a generally dirty property and a lack of apology during a power outage. Issues with check-in processes and difficulties with travel insurance cancellations have also been noted.

Sources

1. almosafer.com
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3. michelin.com
4. lerelaisdemarambaia.com.br
5. lerelaisdemarambaia.com.br
6. michelin.com
7. myboutiquehotel.com
8. expedia.com
9. hoteis.com
10. kayak.com