Perched on the end of Copacabana beach, the Sofitel has the advantage of both the famous stretch of sand book-ended by Sugarloaf to the east as well as the rather cleaner (and busier) waters of Ipanema just a short walk away. Arpoador has become a hip little hive of activity, too, with decent bars, lots of surf and skate shops and the ever-intriguing, art and antique-laden Cassino Atlântico art deco shopping mall to explore.

Also nearby stands the cult samba bar Bip Bip, but for those less keen on heading out and about, the two swimming pools (one for sunrise, one for sunset) are pretty spectacular, and the famous restaurant Le Pré Catalan serves up award-winning tasting menus for those still able to afford an extra treat.