Family Eco-Adventure in Fernando de Noronha

A Day of Discovery & Delight

Today in Fernando de Noronha was a beautiful blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. It was one of those days where every experience seemed to build upon the last, creating a tapestry of memories that I know our family will cherish. From exploring historical landmarks to savoring local flavors and enjoying a relaxing evening, it was a day that truly captured the essence of this enchanting island.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Recanto da Graça. While Lena opted for some fresh fruit and granola, Sofia couldn't resist the local pastries. I enjoyed a strong coffee, which was just what I needed to kickstart a day of exploration. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, a perfect way to start our Saturday. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the historical side of Fernando de Noronha, starting with Palácio São Miguel.


Discover Palácio São Miguel in Fernando de Noronha: A historic palace with colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Palácio São Miguel, the administrative heart of Fernando de Noronha, stands proudly in Vila dos Remédios. Built in the 18th century, it served as the residence for the island's military commander. Although we couldn't go inside, admiring its architecture and learning about its history was fascinating. I explained to Sofia how the palace had been a symbol of power and authority in the past. Lena, with her architect's eye, appreciated the colonial design and the way it blended with the surrounding landscape. The building was erected in 1945 on the ruins of the old prison directorate. It was constructed with the island's own labor force, coordinated by Mariano Lucena, a former political prisoner.
From the Palácio, we walked towards our next historical destination: Forte São João Batista dos Dois Irmãos. The fort is also known as Forte de Nossa Senhora da Conceição dos Dois Irmãos.

Explore Fort St. John the Baptist of the Two Brothers in Fernando de Noronha, a historic fortress with stunning ocean views and a glimpse into Brazil's past.
The views from the fort were simply breathtaking. As I gazed out at the ocean, I couldn't help but reflect on the island's past. Fernando de Noronha has been a strategic point for centuries, serving as a defense post and even a prison. It's humbling to stand in a place with so much history, knowing that so many stories have unfolded here. Sofia was fascinated by the cannons, imagining pirates and battles at sea. It sparked her imagination, and she peppered me with questions about the island's past. I tried my best to answer, drawing from the travel guidebook I had brought along. Lena pointed out the unique rock formations and the diverse birdlife, always keen to share her knowledge of the natural world with Sofia. I really love moments like these, when we all get to learn something new together. Exploring the fort was a fantastic way to connect with the island's heritage and appreciate its strategic importance throughout history.

Sometimes, the most enriching experiences are found in the simple act of exploring a place's history and savoring its local flavors.

After our historical explorations, our stomachs started to rumble. It was time for lunch, and we headed to Restaurante Valdenio. This place came highly recommended for its authentic local vibe and reasonable prices, a welcome change from some of the more touristy spots on the island.

Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at Restaurante Valdenio on Ilha Fernando de Noronha – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
The restaurant is family run and has a small selection of chicken and meat dishes. I opted for the meat stew, and Lena chose a chicken dish with rice and beans. Sofia, always a bit picky, was happy with a simple plate of grilled chicken. The portions were generous, and the flavors were hearty and satisfying. It felt like we were getting a true taste of Brazilian home cooking. We also tried some spicy sauces, which added a nice kick to the meal. It was a simple but delicious lunch that left us feeling energized for the rest of the day. What made it even better was the warm and welcoming service. The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. It's these little touches that can make a meal truly memorable. The prices were reasonable compared to other establishments on the island.
With our bellies full, we decided to take a leisurely stroll along the beach. The sun was warm, and the turquoise water was incredibly inviting. Sofia couldn't resist dipping her toes in, and soon she was splashing around, giggling with delight. Lena and I sat on the sand, watching her play and soaking in the serene atmosphere. We talked about our favorite moments from the trip so far, and made plans for the days ahead. It's moments like these that remind me why we love traveling as a family. These are the memories that we'll cherish long after we've returned home. As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to our pousada to freshen up before dinner.
For dinner, we chose Maré Comida com Vida - Noronha. This restaurant had been on our list since we arrived, known for its vegan options and Asian-inspired cuisine.

Experience the authentic flavors of Fernando de Noronha at Maré Comida com Vida - where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
As a family trying to incorporate more sustainable choices into our lives, we were excited to try it out. The restaurant has a light atmosphere and friendly service. The menu was diverse, with plenty of options for both meat-eaters and vegetarians. Lena and I shared a vegan bowl and some vegan maki. Sofia, surprisingly, opted for the vegan spring rolls and loved them. The food was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. It was a delightful culinary experience that perfectly complemented our day of exploration. What stood out was the innovative use of local ingredients and the creative fusion of Asian flavors. It was a refreshing change from the traditional Brazilian fare we had been eating, and it left us feeling satisfied and nourished. The restaurant also focuses on healthy eating and seasonal creations.
To cap off our day, we decided to visit Santo Deck for a relaxing evening.

Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere of Santo Deck, a charming bar in Fernando de Noronha perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
This bar came recommended for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning views. We sat outside, sipping on caipirinhas and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Sofia, of course, had a non-alcoholic fruit punch. The ambiance was perfect, with soft music playing in the background and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. It was the ideal way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. As we sat there, watching the stars begin to appear in the night sky, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Fernando de Noronha had truly captured our hearts, and we were already looking forward to what tomorrow would bring. Santo Deck was the perfect place to relax.
Tomorrow, we plan to visit Mirante Buraco da Raquel and explore more of the Ilha de Fernando de Noronha. We might even do some shopping at Santacosta - Noronha! Another day of adventure awaits, and we can't wait to see what wonders Fernando de Noronha has in store for us. Maybe we'll even spot some baby sharks!
Good night from Fernando de Noronha!