Trancoso

Bahia, Brazil

Trancoso, nestled in the municipality of Porto Seguro in Bahia, Brazil, is a coastal gem that blends rustic charm with understated sophistication. Once a quiet fishing village founded by Jesuit priests in the 16th century, it has evolved into a sought-after destination that retains its bohemian soul while attracting artists, celebrities, and travelers from around the world.

At the heart of Trancoso lies the Quadrado, a grassy village square framed by brightly colored colonial houses and anchored by the whitewashed Church of São João Batista, which gazes out over the Atlantic Ocean. This historic square, though rectangular in shape, is the social and cultural nucleus of the town, where locals and visitors gather under ancient trees to enjoy music, food, and the laid-back rhythm of Bahian life.

Beyond the Quadrado, Trancoso opens up to a coastline of pristine beaches like Praia dos Nativos, Praia dos Coqueiros, and the postcard-perfect Praia do Espelho, where golden sands meet turquoise waters and coral reefs form natural pools. The town’s architecture and development have been carefully managed to preserve its ecological and aesthetic integrity, with many accommodations and restaurants housed in restored fisherman’s cottages or eco-conscious boutique hotels.

The surrounding region is part of an Environmental Protection Area, ensuring that the Atlantic Rainforest and coastal ecosystems remain safeguarded against overdevelopment.

Trancoso’s allure lies in its ability to offer both tranquility and sophistication. Days are spent lounging on sun-drenched beaches or exploring mangrove trails, while evenings bring candlelit dinners, live music, and the scent of tropical blooms drifting through the warm air.