Leme
Leme is a quiet neighborhood, an extension of Copacabana
Leme in Portuguese means helm. It is a quiet neighborhood located at the northern end of Copacabana. The neighborhood derives its name from a nearby rock formation which is shaped like the helm of a ship. You need to visit Leme if you want a beautiful view of the sunset.
Geography
Leme is located in the neighborhood of Zona Sul (South Zone) next to Copacabana, Urca and Botafogo. The area is just 5 to 10 minutes away from South Copacabana or Ipanema.
Highlights
Leme Beach is on the northern side of the Copacabana beach, where Posto 1 is located. The beach is much quieter than Copacabana since this is mainly a residential area.
Morro do Leme
Is a beautiful hill located at the end of the Copacabana beach (also aka Leme). The Morro has undergone a massive reforestation process and now boasts of 11,000 different types of plants and 90 animal species. You can walk through the 4 square hectares forest along a cobblestone road. The Morro is also home to Sagui Monkeys whom you can see frolicking around the area. Praia Vermelha, the largest beach in Urca starts right around the hill. Forte do Leme is located on the foot of the hill. Built between 1913 and 1919, it is now used as a cultural center by the army. You can view the arms exhibit which includes 20th century German Krupp howitzers (280 mm swivel cannons).
For about 20 minutes and R$ 4 the entrance you will be able to experience the depictions of the 15 Stations of the Cross in bronze and copper statues a remarkable sight irrespective of your religious inclinations. The final hours of Jesus is beautifully portrayed on these exquisite sculptures. On the first Friday of every month at 3 pm, a priest leads the faithful in prayer through the 15 Stations of the Cross.
Caminho dos Pescadores
The fisherman’s path or Caminho dos Pescadores partially circles the Morro do Leme. This spot is perfect for taking pictures of the horse shoe shaped Copacabana beach.
Places to Stay
Leme has its fair share of good hotels and restaurants and a character of its own. The beach is more popular with families as it is quieter and less crowded. The beach kiosks are especially popular with crowd.
Leme Othon Palace
The Leme Othon Palace is a luxurious 4-star hotel nestled between the sea and mountains along the beaches of Leme and the north end of Copacabana. The hotel is only 15 minutes from downtown Rio and Santos Dumont Airport. The Leme Othon Palace offers all the modern facilities and services including La Fourchette, a restaurant and Le Café, a coffee shop. The hotel serves a complimentary breakfast each morning.
Golden Tulip Continental
The hotel located on Rua Gustavo Sampaio, 320, is well equipped with all the modern amenities and includes a swimming pool, sauna, restaurant, fitness center and 5 meeting rooms. The hotel is conveniently located a few blocks away from Cardeal Arcoverde Subway Station and only ten minutes from Ipanema and South Copacabana, which are areas famous for their nightlife.
Leme is the quieter and sober neighborhood among all the areas of Rio. However, spending some time here will make you realize that it has its own character and uniqueness. The beauty of the neighborhood is that you can relax and enjoy the slower pace of life.
Acapulco Copacabana Hotel, Leme
Acapulco Copacabana hotel is a short distance from Copacabana Beach and the subway. Located at Rua Gustavo Sampaio 854, the hotel has a choice of accommodation options which includes a standard apartment, superior apartment, a deluxe room or a suite. Amenities include cable TV, a mini bar and air-conditioning. The main attraction is the coffee bar that serves different flavors of delicious coffee. The hotel’s coffee shop opens for buffet breakfast that is open to everyone.
Eating Out
Marius is one of the most popular restaurants at the end of Av. Atlantica, Leme. Apart from serving a variety of prime cuts of beef, the restaurant also offers excellent seafood such as smoked salmon, oysters and shrimp. Don’t forget to experiment the salad bar which is a popular option with frequent diners. Being a churrascaria, you can enjoy your meal while the staff continue to serve you till you tell them to stop. Do make it a point to visit Marius if you want a perfect romantic evening with your better half.
