As part of Ideal South America’s off-the-beaten path series, we feature Uruguay – a hidden gem all together! This relatively small country, bordering its much larger neighbors Argentina and Brazil, punches above its weight, with fascinating natural, cultural and culinary offerings for intrepid globetrotters. This lesser visited country has some of the best beaches, wine lodges and colonial towns on the continent, but apparently it’s a secret!
Montevideo and Colonia de Sacramento top Colonial Uruguay highlights
Uruguay’s most famous colonial town, Colonia de Sacramento, is a UNESCO world heritage site, with its classic cobbled streets and 18th century lighthouse and basilica – Porto de Campo. On the banks of the country’s main river, the Rio de La Plata, it is also close to some of the country’s top wineries and ranches – read more on those below. And it is also easily reachable by a fast ferry from Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires. Colorful Colonia is lesser known for its gastronomic contributions, but here you can find a uniquely delicious local cheese, and it is reputedly the birthplace of the country’s national grape and wine – Tannat.
The old town of the country’s capital, Montevideo, offers its own special experiences to the traveler. Here you can stroll around its pedestrian center, taking in its shops and cafes, and walled remains, which harken to its past as a military coastal fortress. The Carnival Museum tells fascinating stories of its Spanish and African colonial past and the unique incarnation of Uruguayan Carnival. And a tour here often includes a stop at its now modernized port area, inclusive of many market stalls, where you can enjoy a traditional barbeque (parrilla) lunch or dinner.
Carmelo boasts Uruguay’s Best Ranches and Wine Lodges
Some of Uruguay’s best wineries (bodegas) are located near the town of Carmelo, itself just a hour away from Colonia. In addition to well-organized wine tastings, tours in the area can include visits to archaeological remains of estancias (ranches) formerly managed by Jesuit Missions, as far back as the 1700s. Exploring the cavernous family-run bodega cellars can be just as fun and satisfying as strolling around the expansive winery countryside. Keep an eye out for the wide variety of local flora and fauna. You can even join a luxurious sunset cruise here, down the Rio de la Plata River, with stories, food and drink included!
Travelers from all over South America visit Uruguay’s Punta del Este
Uruguay’s most famous beach, Punta del Este, draws visitors from all over the continent, especially neighboring Argentina – even “beach king”, Brazil. Its marina and port, local bridge connected towns, such as La Barra, and museum (MACA) are all well worth a visit. And one can walk into its hills for amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean from a truly unique property – Casapueblo – designed by one of the country’s most famous artists, Carlos Paez Vilaro. Prepare to be warmly welcomed by a people and country not often visited by friends or family – truly off-the-beaten-path!
