Argentina Travel Blog

Travel writer Jason H. Harper from Concierge.com loved the scenery, the amenities and the choice of activities at the Hotel Correntoso in Villa La Angostura, Patagonia.  Fly fishing, full spa treatments or taking a scenic drive along the Seven Lakes, it's all fabulous.  Read his review and then check out even more stunning views on the Hotel Correntoso web site.    If you can be tempted to leave the hotel, there are tons of things to do and see in and around Villa La Angostura. 

Hotel Correntoso, Villa La Angostura

Map of the Area (see the Map of Argentina as a reference point)

Kayak periodically sends me some unbelievable travel deals.  This week, they highlighted an 8 day trip to Rio, Iguazu and Buenos Aires for $1499.   This includes airfare from JFK (other departure cities also available), connections and hotel.  This package is just one of the many offered  by Latin Destinations.  Their web site is very well designed and easy to navigate.  Customizing your trip and viewing alternatives is a cinch - just click on Design Your Own Trip. 

An estancia is an Argentinean ranch, a country house.  Several open their doors to visitors and offer a variety of services and activities.  You can find estancias that are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors - some even provide spa services.  Others specialize in bird watching.  Most estancias offer horse riding, strolls in horse driven carriages and gaucho shows.  Want to try your hand at polo?  Find estancias that offer beginner classes.  Other activities often include golf, tennis, bike riding and fishing.  Oh, and pack your bathing suit - most estancias have a pool.

Within an hour or two (by car) of Buenos Aires, there are over 20 estancias to chose from.  They range from the super luxurious to the basic.  Prices are very reasonable -  as little as $200 per person per night, including all meals and basic activities. 

Estancieros are very proud of their culinary offerings and their traditions.  You will be treated to an asado (a full Argentinean barbeque), mate (traditional gaucho tea) and fantastic wine.  Most estancias will happily accommodate your taste and dietary requirements if you let them know ahead of time.

Welcomeargentina.com has compiled a nice list of estancias close to Buenos Aires.  Check out their photo galleries to see the beautiful airy rooms, the grounds, the dining options.  As I look at my plummeting thermometer and 8" of snow in my backyard here in New England, I wish I could make a reservation right now...(sigh)

Here are a few more to check out:

• Estancia Santa Susana - their standard service offers a 1/2 day of activities and meals, no overnights. Perfect if you're pressed for time
• Estancia Santa Rita
• Estancia Juan Gerónimo
• Estancia El Silencio

An acquaintance visited Estancia Monte Viejo last month and reports back that she had a great time. 

Please note that there are many estancias outside of Buenos Aires province.  I'll do some research and include those in upcoming posts. 

I would love to share your experiences with other readers, so please add your comments.

Estancia Santa Susana

Share a mate with a friendly gaucho!