Uruguayan Explorations

Today we dedicate the day to visiting Colonia del Sacramento. This colonial town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site is the oldest in the country, founded in 1680 by the Portuguese, on the banks of the estuary facing Buenos Aires. The town changed hands several times between the Portuguese and Spanish and conceals architectural treasures, such as the Calle de los Suspiros, the Church of the Holy Sacrament, the San Pedro bastion, the port and the lighthouse from which the panorama of the city is superb. How pleasant it is to stroll through these small paved streets!

Optional (€50/person):
Guided walking tour of the historic centre (1h30)

We settle for the night in a Posada (a typical inn/guesthouse) located in the centre of the town.

We are leaving the coast today for the coming few days, and beginning our ascent of the Río Uruguay which marks the western border with Argentina. Our first stop is Carmelo.

Carmelo is a small peaceful town approximately 1 hour north of Colonia, renowned for its beautiful beaches, landscapes and wine tourism. Its human-scale size is particularly suited to exploration on foot or by bike. Its historic center revolves around the Plaza de la Independencia, and among its various points of interest and colorful-façaded streets you should not miss one of the emblems of the city: its rotating bridge with arms dating from 1912, a masterpiece of engineering allowing the passage of large boats.

Afternoon arrival in Mercedes, a small town located on the banks of the río Negro, a river whose pleasant atmosphere we can enjoy by strolling along its lovely rambla. Our hotel is located right in the city center and allows us to easily admire the beautiful architecture of its different neighborhoods.

This morning we find ourselves on the banks of the Uruguay River in the town of Fray Bentos. This city was built in the 19th century to welcome large-tonnage ships and became a major meat production center. Its former industrial district, developed around one of South America's largest meat-salting plants, is now listed by UNESCO and constitutes a must-see visit. Many other sites are worth visiting, such as the rambla, the Luis Solari museum or the Hargain square.

Paysandú is a city mainly known for its hot springs, but its other attractions are nevertheless numerous: very beautiful port and rambla, beaches, parks, monument of the Perpetuidad, not to mention the surroundings of the city, which contain waterfalls, forests and caves.

Night at the hotel located near the Constitution square.

Art lovers, the city of Tacuarembó, in northern Uruguay, will captivate and surprise us unfailingly. Featuring sculptures and outdoor paintings, on house facades and in the streets, the city is also home to numerous museums, including the Carlos Gardel Museum dedicated to the father of sung tango.

A 2 hours' drive south, the small town of San Gregorio de Polanco is every bit as charming as its bigger sister: its walls are adorned with drawings, paintings and poems, works by local and international artists. Located on the shores of a large artificial lake formed on the río Negro, the town also boasts magnificent beaches.

Night at the hotel a few minutes' walk from the beach.

This morning we take the road to the southeast to reach the peaceful small town of Treinta y Tres, on the banks of the Olimar river, long a haunt of brigands in this uncertain zone between the Portuguese and Spanish empires. Among the multiple sites of natural interest, we note the Quebrada de los Cuervos, a large protected nature reserve with very rich fauna and flora and surrounded by numerous myths and legends.

We have plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful countryside since we are spending our second day here in a rural estancia. Hiking, horseback riding, workshops and various activities, our stay in this guest house from 1850 is once again pure bliss!

We continue heading east and reach the fishing village of Punta del Diablo. The serenity of the place captivates us and the immense, almost deserted beaches are a paradise for nature lovers and surfing enthusiasts.

Our hotel could not be more perfect for enjoying these idyllic surroundings! Located right on the beach with extraordinary ocean views from our terrace, we will be spoiled for choice between answering the call of the sea or splashing about in the hotel's beautiful outdoor pool.

We dedicate our day to a free visit to the ecological reserve of Cabo Polonio, a small corner of paradise forgotten by tourists. The largest refuge of sea lions in South America, its vast deserted beaches and its few typical dwellings scattered around and accessible only on foot or by 4x4 through the dunes, contribute to the timeless atmosphere that emanates from this place.

After our wanderings we head to the seaside resort of La Paloma where we settle into our magnificent hotel located in the heart of town and close to the beach.

A beach day ahead! We stroll through La Paloma, a relaxation spot with beautiful deserted beaches and numerous natural sites such as the Ombúes forest, then slowly head west. We stop along the way at José Ignacio, a trendy beach resort that retains the charm of a fishing village. Among the various seafood specialties, we can taste the iconic dish of the place, the seaweed omelette. One final stretch separates us from our destination for the day: Punta del Este.

Punta del Este is the most famous beach resort in the country. The "Saint-Tropez of Latin America" boasts a particularly picturesque coastline and beaches, some suitable for families (calm sea), others for surfers. Art lovers are not left out with the famous Casa Pueblo by artist Carlos Paez Vilaró and the Parque de Esculturas of the Pablo Atchugarry Foundation. The colonial architecture of the city, although nestled among modern buildings, will delight enthusiasts.

Overnight stay in a beautiful hotel on the Punta del Este peninsula, close to the beaches.

The Minas Region, located northeast of Montevideo and approximately 1 hour from the coast, is a hilly area that will delight nature lovers and fresh air enthusiasts and ideal for beautiful walks.

The small seaside resort of Piriápolis is located about a hundred kilometers east of Montevideo on the shores of the bay of the same name. Bordered by superb beaches dominated by green hills, the town exudes timeless charm and offers magnificent viewpoints.

Return to Punta del Este and night in the same hotel.

Optional (depending on season - €60/person, 2h):
Boat excursion to Lobos Island - Off the coast of Punta del Este, Lobos Island is a unique nature reserve that is home to

Today, we head back towards Montevideo.

Optional (€75/person, min. 2 pers.) :

Private guided tour of Montevideo (approximately 3h30), with an English-speaking guide, during which we explore the landmark sites of the Uruguayan capital :

• its old town (Constitution Square, cathedral, Independence Square, …)

• the "18 de Julio" avenue, the city's main thoroughfare leading notably to the Parliament and Senate building

• the Centenario stadium, the city's pride where the national football team became world champions in 1930

• the neighborhoods bordering the banks of the Rio de la Plata, this immense estuary forming a triangular indentation on the Atlantic coast: we begin with Punta Carretas at the southern tip of the city, then head east and pass successively through Pocitos with its lovely beach and marina, Malvin bordered by several beautiful beaches and finally Carrasco and its famous casino.

After a final moment at Punta del Diablo, the family hits the road towards Montevideo. It's time to say "see you soon" to this warm country, rich in nature, culture and shared adventures.

At the airport, you will return the rental car before taking your return flight, your heart full of precious memories, unforgettable moments and the colorful landscapes of Uruguay.