Weekend at Monreale

Zane has been taking tennis lessons since we arrived in Brasil, something that he has always wanted to do. His instructor offers classes at this resort, located in the city of Poços de Caldas in the state of Menas Gerais, once a year. Families receive a great price for an all-inclusive (does not include drinks) resort and the students receive lessons at this beautiful place. 

Traveling after Greg was home for work meant that our drive was in the dark. We had no clue we were driving through mountains until our ears started to pop! We arrived late at night and the boys and I headed to bed. Greg went to mingle with other families and instructors. We woke to this breathtaking view!

The meals were all served in this beautiful and very large dining hall. They were all buffet style with a variety of food options. The boys really enjoyed the selection. 

 Walking around the resort we found a lot of interesting things for kids to do! This resort offers a nanny service, one in which the kids are with a group of adults that entertain them with many activities, feed them, and keep them safe while the parents can enjoy some alone time. The boys were not up for that, and mom and dad weren't either, so we explored on our own.

 Rock Climbing wall on the mountain! A sand volleyball court that they call the 'beach'.

 That view!

 Heading to the pool we found a friend hiding in a hole on the side of the hill.

 Even though it was a little chilly and cloudy, the boys were excited to get in the pools.

 Indoor heated pools too!

A huge play structure and area for kids. 

My grandma used to take us to a park that had one of these. I had to show the boys how to use it, but then the giggles and facial expressions of pure enjoyment brought back so many memories for me!

 They even had a trampoline park! The boys had a lot of fun!

Thank goodness for the nets! Alden managed to jump right off the trampoline and was saved by the net. He could not stop giggling!

The boys checking out the view!!

Heading down to the tennis courts.

The natural beauty of this place is breathtaking. I am sure that these pictures are more entertaining for me, but there were so many amazing plants that I could not stop taking pictures!

 

 

 Alden and I explored a little bit while Zane was at his lessons.

Ice cream cone shaped pine cone. 

Zane's lessons were fun to watch. He was very sore the next couple days in his arms from working so hard!

We enjoyed some hammock time while watching Zane's lessons. 

After that work out, it was time to play!

 I, unfortunately, due to some stress of things occurring with family back home, was hit by migraines. Greg and the boys enjoyed the rest of the day by exploring while I got some rest.

They woke me up for dinner, and I was able to join them. We posed for a few pictures. 

The boys enjoying their time. 

We woke on Sunday, ate breakfast and headed home. We were able to enjoy the scenic drive this time and the fog over the mountains. We really enjoyed our weekend and would love to go again!