Tours
Itinerary 5: Fort Santa Cruz and Floralia
Located in Niteroi on the other side of Guanabara Bay, we will drive over the gigantic Rio-Niteroi Bridge to reach this 16th century bastion, one of the earliest South American fortresses still preserved in impeccable state. From São Francisco beach, you will have one of the most beautiful vistas of the city of Rio de Janeiro itself, repeating the classic views photographed in the 19th century by French photographer Marc Ferrez.
Continuing along the coast of the bay, we will pass fishermen's villas until we approach Fort Santa Cruz, whose construction began in 1555 by French explorer Villegaignon. Today it is one of the nation's most important historical sites and from its ramparts and cannon ports we may contemplate the incredible story of the founding of Rio de Janeiro and the battles that took place between the French, Dutch and Portuguese to possess the region.
Lunch will be in the nearby Bicho Papão restaurant, famous for its fresh seafood in a charming setting on Jurujuba Beach, where commercial fishermen bring in their daily catches.
After lunch we can stop at Floralia and be enchanted by the beauty of this fabulous private collection of orchids.