Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
HISTORIC ESTANCIAS
One of the best ways to enjoy the wide-open spaces of Argentina is to visit an
estancia
(cattle ranch).
The late-19th-century belle époque saw wealthy landowning families build up their country ranches
with lavish, often fanciful homes, which they used as country retreats.
Today these establishments cater to tourists with
días de campo -
day tours that include large
asado
(barbecue) lunches, horseback rides, folk shows and, often, swimming facilities. Most also have
overnight stays, which offer a longer glimpse into Argentina's history on the pampas.
El Ombú
( in BA 4737-0436;
www.estanciaelombu.com
) Just outside San Antonio de Areco,
this working
estancia
offers nine rooms and the opportunity to watch gauchos do their stuff.
Juan Gerónimo
( 02221-481414;
www.juangeronimo.com.ar
) There's excellent horseback rid-
ing and bird-watching at this working cattle farm, located within a Unesco world biosphere reserve
about two hours from Buenos Aires.
La Candelaria
( 02227-494132;
www.estanciacandelaria.com
)
Located about 1½ hours from
BA. Special for its castle and manicured grounds designed by Charles Thays, who did many of BA's
public parks. Polo matches often held here.
Los dos Hermanos
( in BA 4723-2880;
www.estancialosdoshermanos.com
) Just about an hour
outside BA, this is a good place to learn how to horseback ride. Friendly, with good food.
about 100 miles southwest of BA. Offers a self-catering option, which makes your stay more self-suf-
ficient and affordable.
La Oriental
( 02364-15-640866;
www.estancia-laoriental.com
)
More authentic than luxurious
is this lovely
estancia
three hours from Buenos Aires. Activities include fishing or windsurfing in a
nearby lagoon.
Puesto Viejo
( in BA 5279-6893;
www.puestoviejoestancia.com.ar
)
Not far from Ezeiza airport
is this boutique
estancia
where you can learn to play polo, ride a bicycle in the coutryside or just hang
by the luxurious pool.
San Antonio's tourist office has more information on
estancias,
as does Buenos Aires'
Secretaría
de Turismo de la Nación
(
4312-2232;
www.turismo.gov.ar
;
Av Santa Fe 883;
9am-7pm Mon-
Fri).
