Ultimate Uruguay
This 14-day self-driving luxury vacation to Uruguay offers a seamless blend of culture, wine, coastlines, and countryside. From Montevideo’s historic heart to Carmelo’s vineyards and the chic shores of José Ignacio, each destination offers a wonderful introduction to Uruguay’s diverse charm.
Day 1
Arrival - Montevideo
Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll collect your rental car and drive to your property of choice, which will be your base for the next two nights. This elegant property is set within a restored mansion in the heart of Montevideo’s old town.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the nearby sites. A short 15-minute walk will take you to Plaza Independencia, the city’s historic main square and a lively point of interest surrounded by architecture, theatres, and museums.
Day 2
Montevideo
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed exploration of Montevideo’s most iconic sights. Walk along the Rambla, the city’s coastal promenade, and stop at the Teatro Solís and Mercado del Puerto.
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts and take time to enjoy the city’s laid-back café culture. Pause at a terrace and sample strong South American coffee while watching daily life unfold.
The rest of the evening will be yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 3
Montevideo - Colonia
After checking out, you will drive to Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site (approx. 2–2.5 hours). Check in to your property of choice, which will be your base for just one night.
In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a cultural introduction to Uruguay’s iconic mate tea, followed by a leisurely walk through cobbled streets that reveal layers of Portuguese and Spanish colonial history.
The evening is yours to explore further or unwind at the hotel.
Day 4
Colonia - Carmelo
This morning, you’ll continue your journey by driving to Carmelo, a region known for its wine and natural beauty (approx. 1 hour). You will be staying in Carmelo for the next three nights, nestled within vineyards.
In the afternoon, take a private boat trip across the islands of the Delta, where the Río de la Plata meets the Río Uruguay. You’ll pass coastal shipwrecks and observe the ever-changing light as the sun sets over the river.
Return to the lodge in time for dinner and a glass of Narbona’s own vintage.
Day 5
Carmelo
Today begins with a visit to Calera de Las Huérfanas, the remains of a historic Jesuit estancia.
Enjoy a guided visit to two local family-run wineries: Bodega Cordano and Bodega El Legado. At Cordano, tour the vineyards and the charming vintage grocery shop founded in 1855, before sampling a selection of wines.
Return to the lodge for a peaceful evening at leisure.
Day 6
Carmelo
Spend the day enjoying the tranquillity of a vineyard estate. Relax by the pool with a book or explore the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike. The area is also ideal for horseback riding, with trails that meander through pastures and riverbanks.
Enjoy the slower pace of rural Uruguay.
Day 7
Carmelo - Sacromonte
After breakfast, you’ll continue your journey to Sacromonte, a scenic four-hour journey through rolling hills.
Check in to your hotel, surrounded by vineyards and panoramic views. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy. Savour a glass of estate wine, go for a short walk, or simply take in the peaceful surroundings.
Dinner can be enjoyed on the terrace or in the glass-walled restaurant.
Day 8
Sacromonte
Today begins with a drive to Pueblo Edén, a small rural town surrounded by hills. Enjoy a guided hike along countryside trails traditionally used by gauchos. You’ll cross wooden gates, grassy prairies, and quiet streams, offering glimpses of local wildlife.
Arrive at Viña Edén winery for a relaxed lunch with views across the valley.
Spend the evening back at Sacromonte at your own pace.
Day 9
Sacromonte - Pueblo Garzón
Following breakfast, you will drive to Pueblo Garzón (approx. 1 hour).
Check in to your hotel before heading to restaurant Garzon for lunch, a spot renowned for its exceptional dining. Afterwards, explore the small town, which was once nearly abandoned, but is now a culinary and design destination.
The evening will be spent at your leisure.
Day 10
Pueblo Garzón
Begin the day with a tour and tasting at Bodega Garzón, one of the region’s most celebrated vineyards. Learn about local varieties and sustainable growing methods before enjoying a wine-paired lunch overlooking the vines.
Spend the afternoon and evening strolling through the village or enjoying your hotel's amenities.
Day 11
Pueblo Garzón to José Ignacio
Check out after breakfast and drive 30–40 minutes to José Ignacio, a stylish coastal town. You’ll be staying at Estancia Vik, a striking estancia-style property known for its art, architecture and natural setting.
Spend the afternoon exploring the property or venturing into town for a swim or coffee at a beachfront café.
Dinner can be arranged on-site or in the nearby village.
Day 12
José Ignacio, Estancia Vik
After breakfast, take a private tour to the Anastasio Lagoon. Ride a bike along rural trails through private ranches, reaching the Anastasio Stream, where you’ll kayak to the lagoon itself. The area is rich in birdlife, including flamingos, swans and herons.
Enjoy a traditional picnic lunch before cycling back to town.
Spend the evening at your leisure.
Day 13
José Ignacio, Estancia Vik
Today is entirely yours to explore or relax.
Enjoy the beach, take a boat trip to Isla de Lobos to spot sea lions, or simply wander the town's art galleries and boutiques. More active options include mountain biking or horseback riding through the surrounding dunes. Return to the property in time for sunset drinks or a swim.
The bohemian charm of José Ignacio invites a slow and luxurious pace.
Day 14
Departure
This morning, your luxury holiday to Uruguay comes to a close. After breakfast, you will drive back to the airport to begin your onward journey.
- Discover the vibrant capital of Montevideo,
- Set off on a scenic boat journey along Uruguay’s coastline,
- Visit some of the country’s most renowned wineries,
- Embark on a barefoot hike across golden sand dunes Uruguay’s golden sand dunes.
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