Uruguay in 5 tips

1. Colonia del Sacramento

From the bustling metropolis of Buenos Aires, a ferry takes you across the mouth of the Río de la Plata to the historic centre of Colonia del Sacramento in just an hour. Yet it’s a world of difference. Here in Colonia, it feels as though you’ve stepped back into the 17th century. Stroll through the narrow streets paved with uneven cobblestones. All around you’ll see an interesting mix of low-rise Portuguese and Spanish buildings, with only the ‘Faro’, the lighthouse, rising above them as a landmark. We highly recommend climbing this lighthouse and enjoying the beautiful view over the colonial centre from the top. In Colonia, it’s lovely to relax at one of the many small terraces.

2. Lunch at the market in Montevideo

​It’s not just in Argentina that you can enjoy a good steak and a glass of red wine to go with it; the Uruguayans know a thing or two about good food too. We were recommended to have lunch at Mercado del Puerto, the market hall in Montevideo’s harbour. Around midday, office workers from all over the city gather here to enjoy a hearty lunch. The old hall is packed with little eateries; the sound of people chatting is deafening, and you can smell the aroma of the meat sizzling on the barbecue from a distance. Every little eatery has its own large parilla (barbecue) laden with various types of meat, sausages and large red peppers. Paired with a good red wine, this is not to be missed. As far as I’m concerned, this is the best way to enjoy a good steak.

3. Horse riding on an estancia

​Outside the cities, Uruguay is very sparsely populated. The country has many estancias where you can enjoy a lovely stay and experience authentic rural life. Horse riding is therefore very popular here and, in my opinion, it’s an essential part of any trip through Uruguay. Go on a horse ride through the Uruguayan countryside and imagine yourself as a real gaucho. The Carmelo region, known for its high-quality wines, is ideal for this. One estancia we’re particularly fond of is the Narbona Wine Lodge. An experienced gaucho will take you on a wonderful ride through the countryside, and for the rest of the day you can fully enjoy authentic Uruguayan country life here. Tip: the estancia has a fantastic restaurant!

4. Cabo Polonio

One of the most special places I’ve visited in Uruguay is the coastal village of Cabo Polonio. This little gem is nestled amongst the dunes of a nature reserve and is largely cut off from the outside world. This old fishing village, characterised by its lighthouse, huge colony of sea lions and a single small supermarket, can only be reached on foot or by 4x4. The surroundings are stunning; right on the beach, and wherever you look you see the dunes. Peace and relaxation reign supreme here, and in the evening you can enjoy the most spectacular starry sky you’ll ever see.

5. Barefoot Luxury on the beach

I love to round off a trip by the coast, and I’m certainly not the only one. Uruguay is an excellent destination for this, as the country boasts some stunning coastal towns. One of the most popular seaside resorts is Punta del Este. This town is also known as the Saint-Tropez of South America. Here you’ll find luxury summer retreats, a lively promenade lined with palm trees, and enormous yachts moored in the water. Good restaurants and bustling terraces make this place a hive of activity in the summer. It will therefore come as no surprise that many cultural events are organised here, such as the international jazz festival and various major exhibitions.

Are you looking for a bit more peace and simplicity? Then the little town of José Ignacio is a lovely beach destination to round off your trip through Uruguay. In José Ignacio, you’ll find what’s known as ‘barefoot luxury’. The locals are very friendly and there’s a lovely, relaxed atmosphere. You can unwind in the beautiful surroundings, whilst never being far from a good glass of wine. Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at one of the top-class restaurants and unwind by the hotel pool whilst a refreshing cocktail is waiting for you. It’s a lovely, gentle break from the hustle and bustle of city life.