The Marau Peninsula is a world away from the colonial clutter of Salvador, a beautiful laid-back resort of family-run guesthouses and mile-upon mile of deserted beaches, coral pools and tropical forest. Gateway to Marau, the village of Barra Grande sits at the northern tip of the peninsula opposite the great Bay of Camamu and is best accessed by speedboat from the mainland. Accommodation is on the whole a simple affair, the roads themselves mere sandy tracks which have helped preserve the area from development. Relax on Taipu de Fora, one of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches; take boat trips to isolated bays; snorkel the crystal clear waters or canoe through the mangrove channels, Marau epitomise the barefoot charm of Brazil.