This hotel claims to be “the antidote destination to the Cup’s chaos”. With 25 ocean-facing villas nestled amongst lush vegetation where the thrum of the sea and the sounds of bossa nova tunes soothe visitors seeking reprieve after the games, it is difficult to argue. The chic beachside getaway is located in Brazil’s oyster capital, in the town of
Governador Celso Ramos in the southeastern State of Santa Catarina. The impeccable gastronomic offer includes 10-course breakfasts, and the cachaça tastings will up the ante on stadium food in an otherworldly paradise.

Ponta dos Ganchos is located close to Florianopolis. The closest stadium to the resort is Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre, which will host, during the preliminary round, the teams from France, Honduras, Australia, Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, Algeria, Nigeria and Argentina. Direct flights from other World Cup cities include São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia. Of course, there is also the option of watching the world battle for the cup from the luxurious comfort of the resort’s renovated cinema.

Guests wishing to enjoy a stylish game of their own may get their adrenaline flowing at the state-of-the-art fitness center, on the oceanfront clay tennis court, or on a run through the untouched nature surrounding the resort. (Places for relaxation and pampering).

For those who prefer to stay away from the soccer mania, Ponta dos Ganchos features three private massage tents at the end of the peninsula. And couples intent on lavishing in the tranquil serenity of the resort may reserve a private island for dinner, accessible only by candlelit bridge. ■