11-DAY URUGUAY BOUTIQUE HIDEAWAYS

When you arrive in Montevideo, you’ll go on a tour of the city, visiting its most important landmarks within the centre and visiting some of the most interesting areas to live in. Then you head out to Bouza winery sitting on the outskirts of the city to do your first wine tasting and have lunch in this tranquil setting. You’ll have the afternoon to relax back at your hotel in the city before you go for the ultimate introduction to Uruguayan culture at a tango show over a traditional dinner.

From: Montevideo Airport
To: Montevideo

You’ll meet your guide, leave your hotel and start your Montevideo city tour. In the historical centre, you’ll appreciate the beautiful colonial architecture that surrounds the Plaza de Constitución like the Cathedral, City Hall, and the Solís Theatre.

At the Independence Square, you’ll see a monument honouring José Gervasio Artigas, a national hero. You’ll continue your tour to the Mercado del Puerto, an old market hall filled with street musicians and local artists. Near the port market, at the Mercado de los Artesanos, you will have the possibility to purchase handicraft works of local artists made of typical materials such as leather or wool from Uruguay.

Afterwards, you’ll drive along the lively 18 de Julio street until you reach the Legislative Palace, an impressive building that was built at the beginning of the 20th century. Then, you’ll stop and visit Mercado Agricola, a market that was used for selling cattle. At the recently renovated market, you can discover Uruguay’s culinary customs and stroll along the fruits and vegetables stands or try fresh pastries like bizcochos or torta frita.

You’ll then continue your drive around town and pass by the Batlle and Ordoñez Park, the Obelisk, and the Centenario Soccer Stadium that was built for the first World Cup in 1930. You’ll end your tour at the Plaza Virgilio and in the residential area of Carrasco. Appreciate and photograph the stunning views of the city before driving along the coast and its beaches back to your hotel.

Address: Montevideo Montevideo Department, Uruguay

From: Montevideo
To: Bouza Boutique

The Bouza Boutique Winery is located at the source of the Melilla Stream, at only 15 kilometres from Montevideo.

The winery is part of a harmonious milieu, surrounded by vines and native woods. The vineyard is composed of 10 hectares of Tannat, Merlot and Chardonnay plants, of ages ranging between 20 and 40 years. Also, 13 hectares with new plantations of Tannat, Merlot, Tempranillo and Albariño, selecting high quality and low productivity clones.

Bouza Winery was built using the basic structure of an old winery functioning in the area since 1942. It was restored maintaining the original idea. Wine varieties: Albariño (white wine), Chardonnay, Merlot, Tannat-Merlot, and more.

The tour starts with a visit to the vineyards and orientation on the process, observing the nature with a wide diversification of fauna and flora, a collection of antique cars like a Ford T 1926. Ford A, Citroen 1950, 1980, Alfa Romeo Spider 1960, or 1926 train wagons among others. Afterwards, you’ll attend a
wine tasting of the different varieties will take place followed by lunch.

Address: Cno. de la Redención 7658, 12500 Montevideo,
Departamento de Montevideo, Uruguay

In the heart of the city, across the road from a beautiful park and a short walk from the city’s main historic square, Alma Historica Boutique Hotel is a four-star hotel found in an art nouveau mansion.

The hotel has 15 different rooms distributed in three categories. Each room is unique and inspired by characters from Uruguay’s culture. Every detail has been considered to create a comfortable and sophisticated space.

At the hotel, you’ll also find a rooftop terrace overlooking the city, a library, lounge and a business centre.

Address: Alma Historica Boutique Hotel, Solis, Montevideo
Montevideo Department, Uruguay

Primuseum is located in an intimate, warm and familiar place, surrounded by articles and antiques that are more than 100 years old.

Primuseum offers during the night a live Tango show with the best artists of Uruguay, accompanied by a comprehensive menu of typical local food, with the pairing of the best Uruguayan wines, including the Tannat.

During the night, Primuseum dresses up offering visitors a unique experience, where gastronomy, culture and Tango are harmoniously combined.

Address: Calle Perez Castellano 1389, 11000 Montevideo,
Departamento de Montevideo, Uruguay

You will be transferred from Montevideo to Colonia del Sacramento in a private vehicle. Colonia del Sacramento is a charming little town right on the shore of the Río de la Plata. Both Portuguese and Spanish settlers have influenced the city’s development which shows in the unique colonial style mix in the historic centre that was named UNESCO World Heritage in 1995. You’ll have the rest of the day and evening to explore the town or relax at your hotel.

From: Montevideo
To: Colonia del Sacramento

You will be transferred from Montevideo to Colonia del
Sacramento in a private vehicle.

Colonia del Sacramento is a picturesque town located on the eastern bank of the Río de la Plata.

In Uruguay’s oldest city, you can enter the historical centre and be charmed by the UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like it has frozen in time.

During your time here, you can wander around its narrow cobblestone streets, admire spectacular sunsets by the riverfront, indulge in local gastronomy, or visit small boutiques and art galleries.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: 70000 Colonia del Sacramento, Colonia Department, Uruguay

Its strategic location in the historic town of Colonia del Sacramento, a magnificent view of the river and its warmth make the experience of staying in Charco Hotel one that you won’t forget.

The white rooms acclimated under colonial style are conducive to calm feelings and arouse the senses of guests. At the Charco Bistro, dishes are prepared with fresh and carefully-selected raw materials that deliver healthy and delicious food.

Address: Charco Hotel, De San Pedro, Colonia del Sacramento
Colonia Department, Uruguay

This morning, you will be driven to Carmelo. Often left behind for the bigger, flashier Punta del Este on Uruguay’s coast, travellers are only just discovering what Carmelo has to offer, elite Argentinians have been flocking to this charming Uruguayan town for years. With its beautiful golden beaches on the river, rich culture and budding wine region, Carmelo is Uruguay’s best-kept secret. The town runs on its agricultural and wine industry so you are sure to eat and drink well.

From: Colonia del Sacramento
To: Carmelo

You will be picked up at your hotel and taken to Carmelo.

You’ll visit Almacen de la Capilla, an old country grocery store in the small village of Colonia Estrella, surrounded by quiet and natural countryside. Almacen de la Capilla was founded by Antonio Cordano at the beginning of 1900 to provide the neighbourhood with goods and to be a meeting place for friends. Its name ‘Almacen de la Capilla’ refers to ‘Capilla San Roque’, a small chapel near the grocery store and also an attraction due to its history.

The Almacen belongs to the organic winery called “Bodega Cordano” founded by Italian immigrants, the Cordano family, in 1855. Cordano produces classical wines without any kind of state of the art machinery. All done manually like in those times.

You’ll enjoy a wine tasting of six different wines with a variety of cheese and ham.

Address: Ana María Carpy Noaín (Muca), Departamento de Colonia, Uruguay

Narbona Wine Lodge hotel boutique offers give exclusive rooms where its detailed originality shows an antique decoration with modern equipment, reaching the welfare and joy of those who stay in.

Distributed in three rooms overlooking the winery and two rooms overlooking the vineyards. Stylish shelter combining comfort, amusement, fields and vineyards, ensuring peace and rest in plenitude.

All the rooms have king-size beds, balcony and private terrace, ideal to relax enjoying a glass of wine and a cheese board of the lodge’s own production.

Address: Narbona Wine Lodge, 21, Carmelo Colonia Department, Uruguay

Minas is situated in the middle of a vast, hilly mountain landscape in the Departmento Lavalleja, of which it is the capital. From the Posada, you’ll have several options of things you can do today, such as visiting The Salto del Penitente, surrounded by beautiful, untouched nature, the waterfall flows into a natural stone basin where you can swim. From Minas in a northerly direction, you can reach Arrospide gold mine, you can visit the 800 metre long tunnels and learn about the
mines.

From: Carmelo
To: El Balcón del Abra

Take in the beauty of Salto del Penitente and the freshness of nature on this walk!

Short but challenging, you’ll have a steep ascent to Salto del Penitente, once you reach the viewpoint, you’ll take in the majesty of the waterfall and its soothing sounds. From the viewpoint, you can cool off after your ascent in the natural pool that the waterfall tumbles down to.

The waterfall is part of a park where there are horse riding and zip-lining that adds a little more to the beauty of this area. You’ll also have the chance to relax in the beauty of the waterfall from a restaurant where you can try some rural specialities.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Lavalleja Department, Uruguay

A charming rural escape nestled in the hills of Lavalleja Department, El Balcon del Abra offers unique landscapes, superb comfort and the charm of a small posada with only eight rooms.

Embrace the beauty of Uruguay’s landscapes by exploring the hiking trails or by riding on horseback over hills and across streams. Discover nature, history and rural life in Uruguay from the comfort of this Estancia. Each of the rooms at El Balcón del Abra is simple yet cosy with all of the facilities that ensure an enjoyable stay in the countryside

While staying here you’ll sample delicious homemade organic food from the garden as well as excellent wines that will ignite the senses. Here, you’ll have one of the most memorable and authentic vacations!

Address: El Balcón del Abra, Lavalleja Department, Uruguay

From the Posada, you’ll have a wealth of outdoor activities that you can take part in. You can choose whether you do these by yourself or on a guided tour that can be arranged from the Posada. Horseback riding is a great way to explore the landscape in a more traditional Uruguayan way. Should you wish to explore on foot, you can follow many nature trails that take you out into the landscape. There is lots of wildlife to see here!.

The Estancia has a host of leisurely and adventurous activities to fill your day. From canoeing and fishing to off-roading, horseback riding, golfing and even free-flying, there is no end to the ways that you can explore this landscape.

Choose how you want to explore the Estancia and head out for a journey that will show you the unforgettable rural landscape of Uruguay. If you are canoeing, fishing or trekking, you’ll follow the river that has many unique species of birds that you might see.

Both mountain biking and off-roading will take you much further afield. You will need a license for the dirt bike for offroading.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Ruta 8 – Km 184, 30001 Departamento de Lavalleja, Uruguay

Transfer from Posada Balcón del Abra to the charming province of Rocha and its small fishing village, La Pedrera. The seaside resort La Pedrera of La Roche is ideal for family holidays with beaches that are perfect for both recreation and relaxation. Situated on a small, narrow peninsula called Punta Rubia, La Pedrera is known for its exclusivity and cosmopolitan character.

From: El Balcón del Abra
To: La Pedrera

The seaside resort La Pedrera of La Roche is ideal for family holidays. Its beaches allow both recreation and relaxation, such as fishing or various water sports. It is located about 13 kilometres north of La Paloma, on a small, narrow peninsula called Punta Rubi.

La Pedrera’s main beach is known as El Desplayado and is a major attraction during the summer months. On the southern beach, you can see the last remains of the fishing boat Cathay, which ran aground in 1971. Further south, the Barrancas de la Pedrera offer the walker a backdrop of beach, rocks and meadow landscapes.

The church is located on the main street of La Pedrera, as well as the handicraft fair, several boutiques and a large selection of small shops and restaurants, which with their warmth and hospitality will ensure an unforgettable stay.

The Rambla promenade is the perfect place to enjoy the sea view or to watch the fascinating courtship of the right whales during the winter months.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: 27004 La Pedrera, Rocha Department, Uruguay

Just moments from the beach, Brisas or “breeze” is the perfect escape in one of Uruguay’s well-known resort destinations.

Brighty, breezy yet sheltered from the high winds of La Rocha, Brisas welcomes the beauty of the outdoors in with a relaxing, sheltered garden, modern style pool and views for days!

The rooms here are divided into the Bahia suites, which look out to the sea with private terraces and great bay windows and the Garden suites look over the greenery of the hotel and the pool with comfortable sofas to relax on in the outdoor area. With so much room to relax and enjoy the peacefulness of La Pedrera, you’ll always find a moment to enjoy the breeze!

Address: Brisas de La Pedrera, Santa Teresa, La Pedrera Rocha Department, Uruguay

Today you’ll drive from Punta del Este to the bus terminal of Cabo Polonio where you’ll board a special vehicle to take you through the dunes to the village of Cabo Polonio. Cabo Polonio is a National Park near Valizas, one of the seaside resorts on the Atlantic coast of Rocha. It is best known for its large sea lion colony, which can be seen from the coast and the lighthouse. The small village is surrounded by shifting dunes. After discovering Cabo Polonio, you’ll head back to Punta del Este.

The Cabo Polonio National Park is an area of scenic beauty that preserves the Uruguayan Atlantic coast. This coastal area is characterised by diverse beauty, including sandy beaches, rocky areas, dunes, coastal forests, small swamps, oceanic environments and islands.

Many of these ecosystems are a priority for the SNAP (National System of National Parks and Protected Areas) due to their limited distribution in Uruguay territory. The most outstanding component is the dune system of Cabo Polonio, which is the largest remnant of a strip of sand that once stretched along the entire coast. It is one of the few areas with shifting dunes in the region, reaching a height of over 20 metres.

The Cabo Polonio National Park is home to several protected species, including endangered or threatened species (such as Darwin’s toad), plant and animal species of limited distribution (such as the “Banana do mato”, the four-eyed frog and the pond turtle) and migratory species of regional of global importance such as terns, southern right whales and green turtles.

Almost half of the two sea lion species are found on the islands near Cabo Polonio, where their rutting and breeding grounds are located. The rocky area of Cabo Polonio is home to the only continental settlement of fur seals in the country. It offers a unique opportunity to observe these animals at close range.

From an archaeological point of view, Cabo Polonio and its surroundings were occupied by prehistoric societies some 11,000 years ago until European’ colonisation. The national park is the area where the prehistoric occupation of the entire coastal area is best expressed.

From a historical point of view, the Cerro de la Buena Vista (the highest point in the area) served as a border between the Spanish and Portuguese empires between 1750 and 1777, according to the Treaty of Madrid.

Address: 27202 Rocha Department, Uruguay

Leave La Pedrera and drive to Laguna de Rocha, declared a natural reserve by UNESCO. It sits on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. More than 200 species of birds can be found here, including the endangered Chilean flamingos. Continue to Bodega Garzón, a boutique extra virgin olive oil producer and winery where you’ll hop in the back of a trailer for your tour, finishing with a five-course lunch. After your long lunch, you’ll continue to Jose Ignacio.

From: La Pedrera
To: Laguna de Rocha

The lagoon of Rocha, declared a nature reserve by UNESCO, is located on the way north directly on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. More than 200 species of birds can be found here, including the endangered Chilean flamingos.

The innumerable shells and molluscs also supply the giant otters, which you can observe with a little luck. The large and small South American rodents, Carpinchos and Tucu-tucu collarado are also at home here. From the lagoon, there are kilometres of lonely sandy beaches up to the lighthouse of La Paloma, the next coastal town of Rocha.

Address: Laguna de Rocha, Rocha Department, Uruguay

From: Laguna de Rocha
To: Bodega Garzón

Bodega Garzón is a boutique extra virgin olive oil plant and winery. On a nice day, sit in a trailer and get pulled by a tractor as you take a guided tour around the vineyards.

Then, immerse completely in wine and olive oil culture as you explore the facilities and learn about the production processes and the different types of grapes and olives followed by a wine and olive oil tasting with olives, cheese, and homemade bread.

End your tour at the restaurant and indulge in an exquisite 5- course lunch as you appreciate the views of the lush Uruguayan countryside filled with olive trees and vineyards.

Address: AGROLAND S.A. Ruta 9 km. 175 – Garzón,
Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay

From: Bodega Garzón
To: José Ignacio

Playa Vik brings a modern bohemian feel to Jose Ignacio’s coastline. Perched on a hillside that slowly leads you down to La Mansa beach, Playa Vik boasts one of the best locations in Jose Ignacio.

Concrete, boho yet modern design with unique touches that stop you in your tracks and artworks from some of Uruguay’s favourite artists come together to create a work that could only be in Jose Ignacio. Every day is a joy at Playa Vik!

Address: Playa Vik Jose Ignacio, José Ignacio Maldonado
Department, Uruguay

Your day today could be spent by the beautiful location of your accommodation, where you are just moments from one of Uruguay’s best beaches. This location enjoys a balance of activity and relaxation where you can spend your time lounging in the midday sun or take a stroll to observe the coastline, dotted with exclusive residential homes and hotels. Alternatively, head into the town to experience one of the most elites towns of Uruguay.

A pretty beach town that when from a small remote fishing village to being the trendiest destination in Uruguay, Jose Ignacio will charm you with its most fashionable status.

Lined with up-market hotels, beautiful resorts and guesthouses, Jose Ignacio’s coastline is interrupted by stunning beaches that welcome you to enjoy a more natural vibe. This small town and its beaches feel exclusive yet reserved, you’ll find no one flaunting here, this is a quiet place to slip back and enjoy life.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: José Ignacio, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay

Leave your hotel and drive to Punta del Este, a famous seaside resort town. Along the way, stop at Punta Ballena for sweeping views of the coast. Then, visit Casapueblo to walk on the narrow steps and enter the different rooms filled with the artist’s works. Continue your scenic drive through Punta del Este’s most fashionable and impressive neighbourhoods stopping at Le Mano and the hanging bridges of La Barra de Maldonado before returning to Montevideo.

From: José Ignacio
To: Casapueblo

Journey towards Punta del Este. Along the way, stop at Punta Ballena for sweeping views of the coast.

Visit Casapueblo, the home and atelier of internationally renowned artist, Carlos Paez Vilaró who built it himself in 1958. Located on a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean, it resembles Spanish-Moroccan architecture. Walk along the narrow steps and enter the different rooms filled with the artist’s works.

Continue your scenic drive through Punta del Este’s most fashionable and impressive neighbourhoods like Cantegril, San Rafael, Parque Golf, and Beverly Hills. Then, stop at the famous monument “La Mano”, a hand sculpture that spurs out of the sand at Brava Beach.

You may have the possibility to visit the “Plaza de Los Artesanos” with its handicraft market near Gorlero Street, where local artists sell their handmade goods (possible depending on the day and time). Then, continue your tour to the “La Barra de Maldonado” district, known for its unique hanging bridges and see the sandy beaches like Playa Brava, San Rafael, and El Emir.

Casapueblo was created by the well-known abstract artist, Carlos Páez Vilaró who built this as has workshop and summer home. Since the artist’s passing the house has become a retrospective of his life work with the additions of a hotel and cafeteria.

It all started with a small wooden hut made from found wood, this was Vilaró’s first atelier. Then, inspired by the Greek island of Santorini and a hornero bird’s nest, the plan to create Casapueblo was born. Spread out over thirteen floors covering the hillside, Casapueblo took 36 years to complete.

Today, the museum is attached to a 20-room hotel. The museum itself is divided into four rooms, each named after Vilaró’s greatest inspirations. There are also many terraces where you can enjoy unrivalled sunset views.

Address: Museo Taller Casapueblo Ruta Panorámica, 20003
Punta Ballena, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay

Uruguay’s most popular coastal resort, Punta del Este sits on the Atlantic Coast of the country and is home to abundant beaches, lavish homes, harbours full of yachts and fancy bars and restaurants.

It is often defined as one of South America’s most glamorous destinations.; its iconic cityscape and glamour that oozes from its streets only confirm this statement once you arrive in Punta del Este.

Whilst here, you can easily hop over to Isla de Lobos and Isla Gorriti by ferry.

Address: Punta del Este, Maldonado Department, Uruguay

From: Punta del Este
To: Montevideo

In the heart of the city, across the road from a beautiful park and a short walk from the city’s main historic square, Alma Historica Boutique Hotel is a four-star hotel found in an art nouveau mansion.

The hotel has 15 different rooms distributed in three categories. Each room is unique and inspired by characters from Uruguay’s culture. Every detail has been considered to create a comfortable and sophisticated space.

At the hotel, you’ll also find a rooftop terrace overlooking the city, a library, lounge and a business centre.

Address: Alma Historica Boutique Hotel, Solis, Montevideo
Montevideo Department, Uruguay

You will be picked up at the hotel and will be taken to the airport for your flight back home. Thank you for choosing to travel to Uruguay!.

From: Montevideo
To: Montevideo Airport