The Uruguayan Riviera
Decompression in Montevideo & Jose Ignacio
Uruguay may just be South America’s best-kept secret–and happens to be the perfect escape from the northern winter in February. Often referred to as the Switzerland of the south, perhaps it’s due to the rolling green pastures and high ratio of cows-to-humans (and tradition of artisan cheese-making), what makes Uruguay so enchanting is its European roots, delicious fresh food and wine, along with the genuine people who make you feel en familia.
Touchdown and head straight for the “Uruguayan Riviera” with its endless golden beaches where the undulating countryside disappears into the azure Atlantic. Home is an elegant estancia near the chic village of José Ignacio with its iconic lighthouse and sandy beaches. The vibe is chill and there are rendezvouses with local artists in their ateliers, al fresco dinners at sunset on organic farms, visits to ethereal cheese makers and learning a thing, or three, about olive oil with growers. Toast life over long lunches at abundant tables with robust Tannat and zingy Albariño, and connect with your inner gaucho by saddling up for a ride. Of course, there will be time for the beach or lounging by the best infinity pool in these latitudes.
After, return to the cool capital of Montevideo, undergoing a renaissance with its enviable location on the Rio de la Plata, the largest estuary in the world. With a river that feels more like an ocean, the rambla (the paved beach promenade) is where life happens for Montevideanos. We will revel in charming neighborhoods, with young chefs pushing the envelope, visit local markets along with tasting wines at local vintners. What we love most about this place, though, is how Uruguayans have perfected the art of chilling out–or what the locals call desenchufar. That’s the central idea of this trip—eat and drink well, convene with nature, and come together around the table to share life’s beauty, over wine.
