BEACHES & ESTANCIAS OF URUGUAY

Day 1 Punta del Este

Arrive at Montevideo International Airport (fortuitously small and efficient) and transfer to the immaculate shores of Punta del Este, a journey of 1 1/2 hours. Upon arrival, sink into the hot pool or flop on the warm sands of Fasano's private beach.

Overnight: Fasano Punta del Este

Day 2 Relaxing at the Locanda estate

Only recently re-opened after an extensive contemporary refurbishment, The Fasano is the perfect sanctuary in which to catch your breath. Explore, walk, win a round of golf, or book a treatment or two in the Spa. By day, enjoy the superb views over the Maldonado River and by the evening, enjoy a well earned drink whilst watching the magical sunsets over the Atlantic.

Overnight: Fasano Punta del Este

Day 3 Jose Ignacio

After breakfast, when your car will have been delivered, drive west along the coast to Jose Ignacio (35km away), a picturesque and incognito hotspot for some celebrity spotting and home to the stunning avant-garde Vik properties Playa and Bahia.

Overnight: Playa Vik

Day 4 Wild beaches and fine dining

Punta del Este and Jose Ignacio are vibrant and energetic towns which come alive during the summer months. Consequently, they attract the attention of some of the continent's most acclaimed chefs and restaurants. We will make reservations in advance. 

Overnight: Playa Vik

Day 5 Lazy day on the Atlantic

Enjoy a day at leisure, exploring lovely fishing villages, climbing Jose Ignacio's famous lighthouse and strolling along the wild and oh-so-chic beaches.      

Overnight: Playa Vik

Day 6 Wildlife and Estancia life

A 15 minute drive inland to Estancia Vik, will deposit you into the rural heartland and one of Uruguay's finest and most distinguished ranches. Try your hand at the reins of a polo pony, paddle a canoe down the Arroyo de Jose Ignacio and enjoy watching the herds of horses, cattle and sheep that roam freely alongside wild ostrich, fox, armadillo and numerous other indigenous animals.

Overnight: Estancia Vik

Day 7 Rural relaxation

Hack out, Uruguayan style, with the gauchos riding through the hills and down towards the coast, and after a late lunch try some yoga or try the Spa menu. Come the evening, enjoy the spectacular sunset over a fabulous Asado barbecue, accompanied by some of Vik's excellent wines.

Overnight: Estancia Vik

Day 8 Sea lions and sand dunes

Drive to the coast at Cabo Polonio to view the incredible shifting sand dunes and one of the biggest sea lion colonies in the world. After a magical day experiencing wildlife and rugged landscapes at its greatest, return to the estancia for a delicious and hearty dinner.  

Overnight: Estancia Vik

Day 9 Montevideo

Drive west back along the coast to Montevideo (approximately 1hr 55 mins) where you will leave your car. Explore the city's plazas, cozy little tango bars and art deco architecture by foot.

Overnight: Alma Historica Boutique Hotel

Day 10 Montevideo

Immerse yourself in the wonderful Mercado del Puerto; Montevideo's old port market building, which now serves as a meat market and throng of lively parrillas (steak restaurants) for the best asado in the city.

Overnight: Alma Historica Boutique Hotel

Day 11 Depart

Either transfer to the airport for your flight home or transfer to the port to take the high speed ferry from Montevideo directly to Buenos Aires.