Lonely Planet Review

Overlooking the eastern end of Ipanema beach (also called Arpoador Beach), the Arpoador Inn boasts one of the best locations anywhere in the Zona Sul. Although the rooms don't rival the view, a recent renovation has at least brought a clean, trim look to the formerly battered, six-story hotel.

Make no mistake: it's all about the panorama if you stay here. The Arpoador is the only hotel in Rio that doesn't have a busy street between it and the beach. Keeping that in mind, it's not really worth it if you don't spring for one of the deluxe ocean-view rooms, which are marginally larger than the standard rooms, and let you throw open the windows so those glorious ocean breezes can fill your lungs. All rooms have recently been given a new paint job and sport cream-coloured tile floors. The bathrooms have also received a makeover with marble countertops and modern showers. There isn't much adornment to the place, aside from a few pieces of Brazilian artwork/handicrafts decorating the halls. The standard rooms are stiflingly short on natural light.