Itacaré EcoRanch — Hotel in Região Geográfica Imediata de Ilhéus – Itabuna

We stumbled across Didier's ranch by chance when we decided to google horse riding in the area. Expecting a quick tourists experience, we were absolutely blown away by our time spent at the eco-ranch. I am a rider with medium experience, whereas my partner has very little experience from 20 years ago as a child. We were both very apprehensive as Didier's horses are trained with one-handed western style riding, something neither of us had experience with before. We were desperate to take his longest hack through the rainforest and beach, so he kindly agreed to take us out for a tester 'around the ranch' the day before. This 'tester' turned out to be probably one of the most memorable experiences of our lives... Didier's horses are the calmest, gentle and responsive animals we have ever experienced. Combined with Didier's gentle and calm demeanour, they are the perfect team. Within an hour of arriving at the ranch (which is absolutely breathtaking!) Didier had us both out in the rainforest, cantering on the horses with one hand - which felt completely safe and normal. Absolutely nothing like my experiences at high-pressure and disconnected British riding schools. The connection we both felt to the animals was unreal and my partner had never cantered in his life. The scenery was absolutely mindblowing and we were taken off route, with the horses picking their way through the trees & vines of the Atlantic rainforest. It was so overwhelming, my partner was almost moved to tears. We were absolutely blown away and couldn't wait for the next full day out with the horses. Didier sells his ride at around 5 hours, but we were out closer to 8. He is evidently so passionate about his animals and they adore him. He took us through the villages, rainforest and waterfalls and then down to Jeribucacu beach, leaving the horses to be watched over by the locals at lunchtime. We had the best meal and Acai we had had in Itacare for our whole fortnight (and promptly returned the next day for the same). At the end of the day, Didier invited us to give the horses a shower and feed them jackfruit which was really special. They have acres and acres of land to roam and still obviously want to be close to him. There were even points in the day where the horses would shout to him from the opposite end of the ranch. It was a really unbelievable experience. We didn't stay at the ranch but were shown the beautiful villas they ave on site and we now can't wait to organise to stay with Didier & Marta next year for a longer period of time. If you love horses, this place will completely...

We stayed 6 nights at this lovely ranch. We enjoyed every minute of it. The owners Didier and Marta are very friendly hostess and host. It felt for us like staying with good friends. The cottage in which we slept was simple but functional. And the absence of a tv-set was more than compensated by a beautiful view and many whistling birds. Breakfast was varied and delicious. And Marta proved to be not only an excellend cook but also a fascinating storyteller. Also our daily coconut’s were the best in town. The beautiful praias were very near (our favorite's: Hawazinho and Gamboa).|The horsetrip to the Waterfall “Bom Sossego” was a learning adventure in many ways. Didier explained a lot about plants and trees and the “ Frango Caipiri” we eat at the local restaurant was the best we tasted so far in Brasil. Next time I want to try one more time to gallop Clandestino home...|Marta and Didier, thanks very much for a great week. Hope to meet you one more time in the near...

This place is definitely a must for those who want to enjoy a quiet environment with the possibility to practice horse-riding or other activities.||||The environment is very pleasant and quiet (with a minor exception due to the birds in the morning). The bungalows are brand new, very functional, well designed, with a beautiful - and private - view.||||One can also practice horse-riding with Didier who offers several trails for all levels.||The horses are both calm and energetic when needed. Very enjoyable !!||||Overall, a very nice place which can serve as a base camp to practice various activities (Itcare is known for its beaches and surf spots).||||Didier and Marta are excellent hosts and good advisers for those who want to discover Brasil. Last but not least, they can accomodate international clients (fluent portuguese, english and french) in...