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In Ilha Grande, Itaguaçú farm, with the beach that lends its name, translated from Tupi (indian language) means "Big stone". It was inhabited by the indians when it was discovered. There are signs of life of at least 500 years before the discoverment of the island, found in excavations made by archaeologists. Signs of fire (burnt carbon and sand, in red colour), flagstones, that were chipped to make arrows. There are also stones with furrows, produced by polishing the stones.

Nowadays the farm is a private ecological reserve, since 1975 and residence of its actual owners, who practice natural agriculture, mariculture, tourism and preservation of nature. Integration with nature is such that some of its inhabitants go along freely in the farm without bothering about human beings. Squirrels do not run away and some lizards can reach the kitchen door to look for food (they are harmless). It is usual to see them around the litter, where all the remains of food are. That is why as soon as it gets dark somebody has to empty the litter because other creatures "fight" for it.

When the sun rises it is possible to "read the night news" in the tracks that have been left in the sand. Otter families that have gone fishing and ended playing with their breeding in the beach.

Itaguaçú beach, in Ilha Grande is not very well known and unique. Due to its geographical position, it is hidden from visitors until they reach the last part of their passage, suddenly appearing, showing all its beauty and leaving everybody fascinated. Vain, always changing her appearance, sometimes with flat beaches, and others with dunes cutting in the beach.
Sometimes with a lake in the center. Its humor also varies, sometimes calm and pacific, others furious and violent.... but always beautiful.

Its geological formation, when world started, seems to have been disturbing and great was the quantity of huge masses of lava that rolled down the coast, leaving its cove full of large stones loose in the sea. The beach spread between them, forming many corners. At a small distance there is a natural pool formed by the sea. About 500 mts from our window there is a ship wreck. It had a wooden hull, moved by sails and two steam wheels. It transported weapons. There was a fire aboard and it exploded, so the crew escaped to earth.

Which is the best time to visit Ilha Grande?
January and February are the summer months and most visited by tourists, if you prefer peacefulness and tranquility in between nature, we suggest you choose another season. The climate is excellent during the whole year. Always inform yourself about the weather.

When the weather is good, with no rain or with strong wind, one sleeps with all the windows open, mosquitoes only appear in rare occasions. Windows remain open for many months, only interrupted one or other day by wind or a strong rain.