I sadly visited only a couple of places in Uruguay but the places I did see, I absolutely loved!! The countryside is stunning and the people are lovely.
PANAGEA ESTANCIA:
For a true rustic ranch experience, stay at Panagea Estancia. I stayed for 3 days and I easily could’ve stayed for 3 more.
Juan, the owner, is amazing with a wicked sense of humour and intelligence. Horseback riding and helping with the sheep and cows allows you to experience the gaucho lifestyle. Juan and his righthand man, Belinga, will pick the perfect horse for your riding experience. If you’re not interested in learning how to ride, you can hike around the vast property.
Be sure to check out the amazing sunsets and sunrises.
It’s very basic with electricity only for a few hours in the evening and shared washrooms. The sitting area always has a big fire roaring and helping with the preparation of salads for lunch and dinner is encouraged. The food is simple, but hearty and delicious (I had 2nd and 3rd helpings!). Everyone makes their own breakfast on the wood burning stove in the mornings. All the food is included and you can purchase wine/beer for a nominal price.
Contact: panagearanch@gmail.com
To reach the estancia from Colonia it’s a bit of a trek but so worth it. Bus from Colonia to Montevideo was 2.5hrs, then a bus from Montevideo to Tacuarembo for 5hrs. The bus stations were really nice and the one in Montevideo is attached to a mall with lots of shops, food options and free wifi. Juan picked me up in Tacuarembo and transported me to the estancia.
COLONIA:
A quaint little UNESCO town an hour ferry ride away from Buenos Aires.
Explore the cobblestone streets of the historic centre, climb to the top of the lighthouse for a view and if you have the energy walk the 5km along the beach to see the restored Plaza de Toros Real de San Carlo (bullfighting amphitheatre).
Be sure to go down to the water for an epic sunset. The colours really come out 30-45 minutes after the sun actually sets.
Dinner at Parrillada El Pórton is a typical bbq restaurant that had fantastic food.
I stayed at Romi Hotel which was very basic but clean.
