Podcast conversation with Maita Barrenechea.
Uruguay offers hip contemporary culture with José Ignacio, the “Hamptons” of South America and the cosmopolitan city of Montevideo. It also has art, architecture, active adventures, famous wineries and an incredible culinary scene, thanks in large part to Francis Mallman.
Culture
- 3 UNESCO heritage sites
- Gauchos
- Museums
- MACA
- Museo Casapueblo, the Gaudi-esque former summerhouse workshop of late artist, Casa Neptuna
Contemporary culture
- Lifestyle
- Markets
- Shopping
- Galleries/art fairs
- Beachclubs
- Beach bars
- Tango
Active
Watersports
- Surf
- Kitesurfing
- SUP
- Fishing
- Waterskiing/wake boarding
- Sailing
- Kayaking/canoeing
Horseback riding on beach – moonlit night
Polo – learn or watch
Hiking
Sandboarding
Biking
Golf
Culinary & Wine
- Vineyards
- Grilling over fire the Uruguayan way
- Pop-up dinners in the pine forests under the moonlight of a full moon
- Chiringuito
- Picnics by sea
- Dining in Sierras of Garzon
- Visiting olive oil farms
- Cooking lessons
Relax
- Watching the sun set – a daily wonder that is celebrated
- Chihuahua (nude beach)
Wildlife
- Seals
- Sea turtles
- Whales
Fascinating People
- Dinner on the Garzón hills with Francis Mallmann – chef
- Pablo Atchugarry – artist
- Julio Sanguinetti – politics
Insider Access
- Artists, ballerinas, designers, political debates, potters, photographers, architects, chefs
Favorites
- Marismo
- Parador la Huella
- Chufy
- Casapueblo
Hotels
A few favorites:
Takeaway tips/info:
- Best time to visit: December (other than the holidays) and March are good times to be there away from the crowds. High summer season is Jan-Feb. October and April are pleasant too.
- Buenos Aires is a 3 hour ferry from Montevideo or a short plane ride – consider adding on a few days to your trip.
- Although Uruguay is on the ocean, the water is never as warm as the Caribbean.