I recently reported on a fun weekend in Montevideo, just beginning my exciting adventure in Uruguay. After a few days in Montevideo, my friend Ron and I decided to explore other parts of Uruguay, including the famed beaches of Uruguay, José Ignacio, and one of the major wine-producing regions in Uruguay called Canelones. We had an extraordinary time in both locations!
José Ignacio
Where to Stay: Punta del Este is one of South America’s most famous beaches. Brazilians and Argentines flock to Punte del Este for glorious, upscale beachside relaxation, glamour, and fun. We decided to stay in a smaller town adjacent to Punta del Este, José Ignacio, Uruguay which is quieter and cozier.
Playa Vik José Ignacio: The hotel we chose was the absolutely stunning Playa Vik hotel, owned by the well-known Vik family, who owns three hotels in the José Ignacio area, Playa Vik, Bahia Vik, and Estancia Vik. Playa Vik is located on the beach and offers absolutely stunning ocean views. Bahia Vik is also beachside, but try Estancia Vik, situated in the countryside, for something a little more rustic. To get to Playa Vik from Montevideo, you can hire a driver or take a local bus from the Tres Cruces bus station in Montevideo, which will drop you off at a small bus stop in José Ignacio. The bus stop is within walking distance of both Playa Vik and Bahia Vik.
What to Do:
Pool: At least one day must be devoted to lounging by Playa Vik’s epic infinity pool. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it is the ultimate location for tranquility and luxury. Enjoy poolside cocktails and snacks while you relax and take in the views.
Beach: A stroll by the water and swimming in the ocean is an absolute must!
Spa: Although Playa Vik doesn’t have a spa, Bahia Vik is just steps away and has a full spa with great massages, a tranquility area, and yoga classes.
Wine Tasting: Playa Vik offers a curated wine tasting experience through The Wine Experience, where you can sample Uruguayan wines as well as wines from the Vik family wineries in Chile. A hearty platter of cheeses and bread are included, and the tasting takes place on a patio where you can marvel at the legendary local sunset.
Where to Eat:
Parador La Huella: This restaurant, which has a spot on Pellegrino’s illustrious Latin America 50 best list, is the quintessential beach restaurant I have ever been to. Grab an outdoor table, dig your toes into the sand, and kick off your meal with a craft cocktail. From there, indulge in dishes featuring local goods like a brie, hazelnut, and honey appetizer, delicate ravioli, housemade bread and dips, and fresh gazpacho. La Huella is within walking distance from Playa Vik, which means you can enjoy as many cocktails as you want!
Playa Vik: Playa Vik hosts a gorgeous waterfront restaurant with delicious fare like cheesy baked vegetable lasagna, a burrata and zucchini salad, and desserts like dulce de leche flan.
Estancia Vik: One evening, we reserved a driver from Playa Vik to take us to visit the acclaimed parrillero at Estacia Vik, where the hotel hosted a lavish pizza party with pizzas served straight from the wood-fired oven, free-flowing wine, and live music. We dined at a communal table and stuffed ourselves with a variety of pizza, including a creamy garlic and herb white pizza, pizza topped with locally foraged mushrooms, a bright margherita pizza, and more. We laughed, ate, danced, and drank the evening away – it was, quite honestly, one of the most fun evenings of my life.
Canelones
The charming vineyards of Uruguay are largely located in the Canelones region, which is about 90 minutes north of Montevideo. We booked a trip to Canelones through Wine Explorers Uruguay, who took us to the Pizzorno Vineyard and arranged for our adventure in Canelones.
Pizzorno Vineyard: The Pizzorno vineyard includes an inn, winery, and restaurant. The inn is a small bed and breakfast where you can reserve a cozy room with a patio overlooking the vineyards. Breakfast is included, and you can dine at the winery’s restaurant. We engaged in a lengthy winery tour where we learned about the local Uruguayan grape, tannat, and then sampled a series of wines with a multi-course lunch. From canapes to salads to the most luscious and flavorful vegetable risotto to a sweet strawberry dessert, it was an incredibly decadent meal.
The Verdict
Uruguay has much to offer beyond Montevideo! Be sure to include time in your trip to visit Uruguay’s beaches and wineries.
