General Info

This vacation is perfect for groups of riders and non-riders or independent travelers who want the flexibility that comes in creating your own self-drive adventure in Uruguay. We’ve selected three unique family owned estancias in the small South American country of Uruguay. Choose one, two or all three to visit during your trip to Uruguay. There are no restrictions on the number of days. This itinerary is flexible. Equitrekking Travel’s preferred provider of travel services, Julie Snyder, is happy to help you plan your stay at one or more of these ranches, providing a packet with directions for your self drive adventure. She can also arrange a night or two in Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital or additional time in the beach resort area of Punta del Este. If the self-drive trip is not for you, consider the all-inclusive Uruguay Estancia Riding Tour.

All three of the ranches that we’ve chosen are special and unique. They are all small, working ranches that practice rural tourism. Each has English speaking guides and gauchos who will help you experience rural tasks like working cattle, riding to areas rich in history and natural beauty, like the Sierra de Mahomas, a rocky outcrop near Finca Piedra Estancia, Atlantic Coast beaches near El Charabon Estancia or an area of historic stone cones near the eco-friendly lodge and estancia, La Salamora.

Brazil, Argentina and a long Atlantic coastline of beautiful beaches border Uruguay, which is slightly smaller than the state of Washington. Uruguay’s population of around 3.4 million people is vastly overshadowed by its population of cattle, sheep and horses. Ranches, known here as estancias, are sprinkled throughout the country. More than 450 species of birds make Uruguay their permanent or migratory home. It is possible for as many as 80 species to be spotted in one day. The national currency of Uruguay is the Uruguayan Peso.

Uruguay Estancia Self Drive Tour Estancias and Vacation Options
La Salamora Estancia
El Charabon Estancia
Finca Piedra Estancia

Awards & Accolades
Members of the Uruguayan Rural Society

All three estancias will appear in Equitrekking’s Uruguay episode, coming spring 2010. Meet Jason and Sandrine, owners of Finca Piedra Estancia, Alicia and her husband Daniel from La Salamora, and watch Equitrekking host Darley work cattle at El Charabon.

 

Packing

Besides Equitrekking Travel’s General Packing Suggestions, make sure to bring sunscreen, as the sun is intense in Uruguay. You’ll also want to pack a bathing suit for this trip, as El Charabon and Finca Piedra both have a pool and you may want to swim in the ocean. Uruguay is well known for its beach resort areas.

About the Horses

La Salamora: One of the owners of La Salamora’s Estancia is a veterinarian, so they have private care for all of their 14 Criollo horses. The horses do not wear shoes, but have strong hooves used to the terrain.

El Charabon: around 30 Criollo, a South American breed, and mixed breed horses.

Finca Piedra: 30 Criollo horses, the South American breed, 17 of which are for riding. The owner writes, “Our horses are free and are not kept the traditional way. We like to allow them the freedom they once enjoyed before they were captured and tamed by humans. They do not have horseshoes as the ground is soft, and we don’t ride on any roads. The resident Gaucho grooms them and makes sure they have enough pasture to eat. After each ride they are washed and checked for any sores or problems. If they have any sores, they are separated and not ridden until they have recovered fully.”
 

Activities/Events

Area Activities/ Attractions
La Salamora: Plenty of space for guided horse rides to area historic sights and beautiful scenery comprised of green rolling hills. Non-riders may want to hike the area’s historic trails, bird watch, sightsee or try other rural tasks. La Salamora is located between the beach area of Punta del Este and Montevideo.

El Charabon: Cattle drives, bird watching, swimming in the pool or at the nearby beach. Santa Teresa National Park, an 18th century fort is nearby. The protected dunes of Cabo Polonio- no cars allowed. Punta del Diablo, a fishing village, La Paloma, La Pedrera and Punta del Este.

Finca Piedra: Horseback riding (short or long rides), horse-cart, rural activities, Vineyard and Sierras Tour, hiking around the property, swimming pool, mountain biking, volley ball, fishing, game room, typical Uruguayan "outdoor bowling", cooking lessons, cable TV and DVD, Internet WIFI, Paragliding, Tango lessons (min. 4 persons), wine tasting (Traditional Dairy Farm visit (free), Paragliding (US $50), Rock-climbing (US $30), wine tasting (fine wines from Finca Piedra´s vineyard from US $35), Hiking (US$ 10)


Other places to visit
Montevideo
Many markets, including the Mercado del Puerto, where you may want to eat some of Uruguay’s famous beef or shop for distinctive souvenirs including rugs, wool items, leather crafts and much more. Montevideo is full of traditional bars, cafes and restaurants, some dating back to the 1700s.

Colonia del Sacramento
This is one of the most beautiful old cities in Uruguay. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the historic quarter with its 17th century cobblestone streets are great to explore on foot. You’ll walk through its streets and visit museums, where you’ll be introduced to the history of Uruguay.

Piriapolis and Punta del Este
Famous South American beach resort towns. Piriapolis was created as a resort area at the beginning of last century by a visionary man called Piria. There are beautiful beaches and wonderful views of the River Plate and the Atlantic Ocean.

Casa Pueblo Museum
Created by Uruguayan artist and architect Carlos Paez Vilaró.  Here you may have the chance to get closer to this artist, learn about his life, art and visit his house and atelier and the museum shop.
 

Accommodations/Food

Accommodations
El Charabon, Finca Piedra and La Salamora are small, family run estancias.

La Salamora has five double bedrooms, all with central heating and en-suite bathrooms. Rooms are traditionally decorated, as is the main lodge, which features art, antiques and handmade Uruguayan goods. The main lodge has a large open area with a dining table, kitchen equipped with the Parilla, a big grill, and living area. The living area features a big wood fireplace, plenty of seating and local information such as guidebooks for birdwatchers, and books on the wildlife and flora you may see on the property. There is a large deck running around the main lodge with seating so that you can enjoy views of the rolling hills and the sunset.

El Charabon has nine rooms, each with a private bath and comfortable beds. Five of these are of the superior category. Superior rooms have air conditioning and refrigerators with bars. The ranch has two living rooms, a playroom, small shop selling local handmade goods, billiards, DirecTV, Wi-Fi and central heating. El Charabon also has a big Parilla for grilling meat. The estancia is decorated with the owner's paintings, which are all inspired by rural life in Uruguay.

Finca Piedra has 13 rooms, each en suite with a capacity for 28 people. The theme changes in each room according to the function of the building. All are equipped with comfortable beds, central heating and safes. These rooms can cater to 1 – 5 people, each depending on availability.  All rooms include a hairdryer and heating. Deluxe rooms: 1 to 4 persons, single or double bed. Standard rooms: 1 to 2 persons, single or double bed

• Vieja Bodega: These cozy Bungalows are a 1934 winery conversion. The decor theme is of vineyards and winery’s. Standard rooms: 1 to 3 persons, single or double bed.
• Casco: The heart of the estancia, dating from the 1930`s has 3 exclusive rooms. Uruguayan animals and Gauchos dominate the decor. They offer an impressive view of the outside swimming pool, Jacuzzi and Pinot Noir vineyard. These rooms all have direct access to the private lounge “EL HOGAR”, equipped with a library, table games, computer , WIFI and chimney.
• Caballeriza: The rooms of the Caballeriza are located mostly on the second level, with a beautiful view of the property, football field, large rodeo and Sierras de Mahoma. The rooms have a thematic décor of horses. The center of the building opens up to a section whereby horses can be brought right up to the entrance, saddled and mounted. The Caballeriza also has a shop, restaurant, conference center and a lounge with television and videos at your disposal.

Also at Finca Pierdra: WIFI, Computer, Cable TV (only in living room), swimming pool, game room, conference centre, artisanal boutique, wine tasting room, volleyball, traditional bowling, farm, parking, babysitter (added cost), children’s games, outside fireplace, outdoor arena for horse riding.

Food
La Salamora, Finca Piedra and El Charabon offer three meals and a snack per day included in your price. Cuisine consists of international and local dishes and is sure to include a healthy amount of meat. The estancias can accommodate vegetarians and those with special diets with advance notice.

La Salamora’s breakfast might include orange juice, coffee, tea, milk, yogurt, fruit, butter, marmalade, toast, cakes, cereal and bread. Your afternoon aperitif or snack may include cheese, salami, olives, bread and Uruguayan beverages or tea, coffee, homemade cakes, cookies and toast. Lunch / dinner may include homemade soup or salads, barbecue beef, pork, lamb or chicken and homemade desserts.

El Charabon features typical Uruguayan dishes as well as international fare. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea with homemade pastries and cakes, and dinner are included in your stay. If you are lucky, Graciela, the owner, will delight you with her torta frita, a traditional pastry that is made when it rains in Uruguay. It’s like a light funnel cake sprinkled with powdered sugar or a big airy donut. Dinners may include Uruguayan wine, lamb or beef barbecue and homemade specialties.

Finca Piedra has 2 large restaurants, “El Tannat”, open to all public and “La Gardeliana,” is specific for special events. They cater to a variety of tastes and much of the food is homemade, organic and collected right from the farm on the property. The fruits, vegetables, honey, milk, meats, (lamb, beef) herbs and drinks (wine and limoncello) come directly from the farm. Jams, cakes and bread are homemade. You will appreciate the quality of their 100% Uruguayan natural meats, accompanied by their fine wines, from their own vineyard and beyond. Parillas or indoor barbeques are a favorite among guests with fresh Uruguayan meats and flavors. During teatime you will be able to taste the typical “pastelitos hojaldrados” stuffed with quince jam, dish that delight adults and children.

Drinks
Alcohol is not included in your trip price, but is available at each estancia.

La Salamora: Some afternoon aperitifs at La Salamora. Outside there is a deck that runs around the entire building and a seating area which overlooks the rolling hills, perfectly situated for sampling Alicia’s homemade copatine or JuJu, a type of cane alcohol (like cachaca from Brazil) mixed with various local fruits and herbs and left to sit for several months. It is a Uruguayan delicacy best enjoyed with local chorizo, cheese, olives and home-prepared mushrooms; all of which are also provided. You may want to try mate, a special type of Uruguayan tea. Beer and wine is available from La Salamora’s private cellar for an additional cost.

El Charabon: Stocks typical Uruguayan wines as well as other alcohol and aperitifs.

Finca Piedra: Finca Piedra has vineyards on the property and wine tastings are available for an additional cost. The imported French cepages have been planted on the “terroir” exclusively selected for fine wine production. The following assorted wines are produced from the Estancia´s vineyards: Tannat (emblematic wine of Uruguay), representing half of the production, completed by cepage´s of Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Viognier and Pinot Noir. Authentic singular and specially blended wines are produced for the connoisseur and enthusiast to discover.
 

The Ideal Traveler

Independent, curious about new cultures, the environment and its biodiversity. Likes to travel and wants to experience a diverse selection of riding and sightseeing, while getting to know Uruguay.

La Salamora Estancia

Short Description: Ecofriendly country lodge between Punta del Este and Montevideo. La Salamora is owned by Daniel, a veterinarian and Alicia, a rider and guide, who work to preserve the biodiversity of their area and share with their guests the tangible and intangible heritage of Uruguay from their base in the rolling hills of Lavalleja.

Rates 2010
$130 USD per person per day double occupancy
$150 USD per person per day single occupancy

*The above rate includes breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, dinner, recreational activities including horse riding, and access to the Internet. It does not include alcohol. Please add 4% if payment is with a credit card.

Riding Level: Beginner to Advanced

Location: In the department of Lavalleja, south east of the country, 140 km from Montevideo, 80 km from Punta del Este, 40 km from Piriápolis and 20 km from Minas (capital of Lavalleja).

Local guide and estancia owner Alicia Morales, will lead you to Uruguay’s top attractions, as well as horse riding at her eco-friendly ranch, La Salamora, located between Montevideo and Punta del Este. If you visit La Salamora, you’ll likely see vast expanses of greenery and bright blue skies, but something you won’t view are power lines. La Salamora garners its electricity from wind power. Alicia also contributes to the environment by participating in two programs sponsored by GEF and World Bank for the protection local biodiversity. Alicia is dedicated to sharing her love of Uruguay’s unique history and culture with guests by leading them to area historic sites on her beloved Criollo horses, a hardy breed native to South America.

The ranch has natural spring water, volcanic rock formations, the Neandu (the Uruguayan version of an Emu/Ostrich), which you might see Alicia feeding in the morning, and old settlement history. You might ride to the mystical Windy Hills at sunset, a local cattle auction, where Alicia will shed light on Uruguay’s past, or an ancient area of stone cones. Enjoy trying lots and lots of local food and mate, a local tea, at this small five room estancia. Alicia works to make guests feel at home in her home.

Alicia studied rural topics and ecotourism at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina and also in Uruguay. She is well versed in Uruguayan history. Her husband Daniel is a veterinarian. La Salamora’s gaucho, Gilberto, is in charge of the ranch’s sheep and cattle. Gilberto’s story is not unlike many other gauchos, who until recently lived a traditional nomadic lifestyle, herding their livestock and sleeping with his saddle as a pillow under the starts. He now lives in a small house at the ranch and still works the cattle and sheep.

Horseback Riding Adventures at La Salamora:
There are a variety of horse riding adventures at La Salamora. You may ride old wagon trails to the Valle del Hilo de la Vida, a very special valley where the aborigines of Uruguay constructed around 100 stone cones. Here you’ll have the chance to learn about these special monuments, which face the same direction on the side of a hill, and are a sort of mystery. The place is thought to have a lot of special energy. Horseback ride to a historic lime oven dating back to 1780, and then a climb up the Mirador hill to enjoy the views of all the hills around you. You may ride to the Quebrada, a small Creek with two waterfalls of natural mineral water and full of native vegetation. You may spend more than a few days riding at La Salamora on their Criollo horses, and still have more to discover.

 

El Charabon Estancia

Short Description: Working cattle and sheep ranch on 2000 acres in the hills Rocha, very close to the Atlantic Ocean and the beach. This ranch is owned by a local artist and personally decorated with her art and Uruguayan style.

Rates 2010
$180 U.S. dollars per person per night for regular rooms
$200 U.S. dollar per person per night for superior rooms.

$200 U.S. dollars per person per night for regular rooms
$220 U.S. dollar per person per night for superior rooms.

*This rate includes four meals per day and day horseback riding tour to the beach. Please add 4% if payment is with a credit card.

Riding Level: Beginner to Advanced

A local artist, Graciela, and her husband Jorge Zuasnabar, whose family has been dedicated to rural activities for three generations, own this well-appointed estancia. Join gauchos in cattle activities such as branding, milking, herding and others or take a day ride to the beach. It's a four-hour ride across three neighboring estancias to the low key fishing village of La Pedrera. The reward is a picnic and miles of dune-backed sands to gallop across, as well as crashing surf. The coast here is wild and almost deserted.

The ranch’s rolling hills are comprised of open spaces for the ranch’s 650 Hereford cattle, 500 Hampshire Down sheep and 30 horses, and quiet streams and forests of tall eucalyptus trees. Birdwatchers will want to be on the lookout for the unique birds of Uruguay, an attraction at this estancia. This intimate nine-room estancia is decorated with Graciela’s gaucho and rural inspired art and also has a pool, playroom with billiards and a small shop selling locally made products. Food is abundant and Graciela will certainly make you feel welcome in her estancia.
 

Finca Piedra Estancia

Short Description: This 2471 acre (1000 hecatre) property offers a unique cultural look at life on a real working agricultural estancia. Finca Piedra combines rest, excellent gastronomy featuring organic vegetables and meats grown right on their farm, as well as exclusive Uruguayan wines from their vineyards. Tango lessons and paragliding are a few of the extra activities also available. The true beauty of the estancia lies in the hidden treasures within the fields, which you will discover with the resident gaucho on horseback.

Rates 2010
Per Person Per Day USD
*Please add 4% if payment is with a credit card.

Standard Room
$145 Single Occupancy
$115 Double Occupancy

Superior Room
$165 Single Occupancy
$135 Double Occupancy
$125 Triple Occupancy
$115 Quadrouple Occupancy

Deluxe Room
$180 Single Occupancy
$150 Double Occupancy
$140 Triple Occupancy

Children From 3 to 11 years old: 50% discount
Less than 3 years old: free

Rates Include:
Accommodation, lunch, tea time, dinner, breakfast and activities.
Activities included in the package : 1 horseback ride (2 hours or less) or horse cart circuit daily, rural activities, walks in the 1000 hectare property (vineyard, Sierras de Mahoma, fields and plantations), outdoor swimming pool with Jacuzzi, game park for children, dairy farm (cow milking and cheese making), tennis practice, outdoor Uruguayan bowling (cancha de bochas), mountain bike, football, volley ball, fishing, pool, ping pong, TV, DVD´s and Internet WIFI.

Location: The Estancia neighbors the Sierras de Mahoma mountain range, in San José, which is conveniently located between Montevideo and Colonia de Sacramento.
55 miles (90 km) from Colonia de Sacramento- 80 minutes drive
77 miles (125 km) from the capital Montevideo- 90 minutes drive
to La Salamora Estancia - 3 hours
from the beach area of Punta del Este- 3.5 hours drive

Riding Level: Beginner to Advanced

Finca Piedra is an exclusive ecotourism ranch. Finca Piedra offers a unique and cultural look at the life of a real working agricultural estancia. Whether on horseback, horse cart, bicycle or on foot, the vineyards, open fields and mountainous Sierras offer a variety of fauna and flora to discover. The rooms offer rustic charm and modern amenities. Fluent English, Spanish and French are spoken. Fruits, vegetables, honey, natural meats and fine wines are produced to provide freshness and quality to your meals.

Agricultural activities allow you to participate in the daily activities of a ranching life with a modern swimming pool, game room, farm animals to meet, volleyball, fishing, and more. The true beauty lies in the hidden treasures within the fields that you will discover with Fince Piedra’s resident Gaucho by horse.

There is plenty to do at the ranch including horseback riding, lying out by the pool, taking a ride through the vineyards in a horse-cart, rural activities like visiting the nearby dairy farm or helping the gaucho doctor cattle and sheep, hiking, mountain biking, volleyball, a game room, typical Uruguayan "outdoor bowling" and more. Additional activities not included in your stay include cooking lessons and wine tastings.

There is a natural reserve 1 kilometer, a little over a half mile, from the Estancia in the Sierra de Mahomas, a rocky mountain outcrop. This is a great place to go horse riding or hiking. The vineyards and farmland are also popular places on the estancia to ride, as terrain is diverse, from rocky hills to long straits, where you can ride faster if you wish. There are forests, rocky hilltops, flat plains, rivers and vineyards to enjoy. Animals such as rabbits, wild boar, fox, tortoises, anteaters, skunk, ostrich, deer, huge lizards and a variety of birds can be seen. The area was inhabited by native people many years ago. After that, the area became known for its wineries and farms.

Finca Piedra has many different rides in their 1000 hectare property, but the most popular are:

The Sierras de Mahoma: A natural reserve with abundance of Fauna and Flora. It is known as the sea of stones and has breathtaking views from the top. Once inhabited by native people, it has caves and amazing landscapes to enjoy.

Vineyard Ride: Ride to the vineyards and through various fields of wheat and barley. Finca Piedra has a 20 hectare vineyard as well as little rivers and animal life. Tour around 12 miles (20 km).

Join gauchos to help with daily chores: Help Finca Piedra’s Gaucho herd the cows and sheep and treat them for illness or other problems. This tour is between 6 to 16 miles (10 to 25 km) depending on request.

Out of the saddle: Visit a nearby traditional dairy farm or the little village of Mal Abrigo, only 1 kilometer (half a mile) from the Estancia to discover the old railway station and various little houses and shops of the local community. Finca Piedra’s location is ideal for those who want to take a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento, a city that has been declared historic by UNESCO. Colonia de Sacramento is only 1.5 hours drive from the Estancia, as is Montevideo.


 

Related Blog Posts

Uruguay- Eco-friendly at La Salamora

by Darley Newman I enjoy finding hidden gems when I travel and places where I can ride that make me feel like I am stepping back to a simpler, more natural time. The estancias that I visited in Uruguay, a small, rural country in South America, were some of these.… Read more »

Uruguay- El Charabon Cattle Drive

This morning the rain subsided at the estancia where we are riding, El Charabon, so we headed out for a cattle drive. El Charabon is a working ranch that raises cattle and Hampshire Down sheep. I rode a wonderful, smooth Criollo out to the far fields, where we five of… Read more »

Uruguay- Finca Piedra Introduction

We arrived to Finca Piedra at sunset, the perfect time to see Pedro the gaucho gathering the horses and taking them to another pasture. This is an estancia (ranch), where you’ll enjoy eating many of the products produced right on the farm. There’s wine from their vineyard, honey from their… Read more »

Uruguay- Finca Piedra Horse Riding

Jason, the owner of Finca Piedra, Pedro, Finca Piedra’s gaucho, and I took off on our Criollo horses. I have never ridden a Criollo horse before and never in Uruguay, so had to adjust to the way of riding and the tack. The traditional style saddles here are flat and… Read more »

Traveler Reviews

Fernando, El Charabon's gaucho, is the real deal: tanned with a pointed black beard, leather chaps, knife at the waist, leather boots and hat. It's his job to take guests riding through the hills as well as looking after the stock...

The estancia overlooks wetlands, lagoon and forest – part of an important biosphere reserve. Wading on horseback through the shallows later with Sanguinetti, the ranch gaucho, we spotted black-necked swans, spoonbills, egrets, herons and storks.

A 15-mile stretch of the banks of the lagoon is also the site of the only ombú forest in the world. Ombú trees, which can live for 500 years, are found in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and elsewhere in Uruguay – but this is the only place where you will find more than one or two together.

- Lucy Gillmore, The Independent

The principle activity is horse riding and most guests avail themselves of this with the help of an imposing gaucho (Fernando). The estancia can accommodate up to 20 guests but, it being the end of summer, there were only, at most, 6 guests when we were there. We were content to take in the tranquil atmosphere of the surroundings and go on a walk over the fields. The estancia is so located that it seems remote from everything and everybody - there is no sign of any other human habitation in looking over the pampas. Four meals a day are included, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. We struggled valiantly to eat all the delicious food cooked by two charming young chefs. Those of you who know us will understand when I say that we were up to the task. Joan is threatening starvation rations when we return to Chicago!

-- John's review of El Charabon

Finca Piedra 4 Day All Inclusive

Short Description: This 2471 acre (1000 hecatre) property offers a unique cultural look at life on a real working agricultural estancia. Finca Piedra combines rest, excellent gastronomy featuring organic vegetables and meats grown right on their farm, as well as exclusive Uruguayan wines from their vineyards. Tango lessons and paragliding are a few of the extra activities also available. The true beauty of the estancia lies in the hidden treasures within the fields, which you will discover with the resident gaucho on horseback.

Dates & Rates 2010
4 day/ 3 night vacation package
$560 USD per person (based on 3 -12 people)
$600 USD per person (less than 3 people)

* Trip price may fluctuate based on currency conversions. Drinks (except for the special wine tasting listed in the itinerary) are not included in the package. Please add 4% if payment is with a credit card.

Activities and amenities included in the package:
Guided Activities:
-    Horseback riding tours daily in the 1000 hectares of the property (fields, cultivations, Sierras de Mahomas, vineyard)
-    Horse cart ride
-    Rural activities with gaucho
-    Vineyard tour
-    Cooking lesson to learn how to make traditional Uruguayan cuisine
-    all meals as indicated in itinerary
-    wine tasting on day one

Self guided activities and amenities:
-    Walks and bird watching in the 1000 ha (fields, cultivations, Sierras, vineyard)
-    Mountain biking
-    Football
-    Volleyball
-    Fishing
-    Outdoor Uruguayan bowling
-    Swimming pool
-    Meet the farm animals (Ostrich, rabbits, chickens, ducks, carpinchos, Guinea Fowl  ...)
-    Cow milking and cheese making
-    Games room (pool, ping pong, baby foot, table games…)
-    TV with satellite and DVD´s
-    Internet WIFI

*Extra Activities:
-    The estancia also can direct you to day visits to Montevideo, Colonia de Sacramento, Fray Bentos
-    Paragliding lessons* additional cost
-    Tango show and lesson night * additional cost of approximately $47 USD per person

Location: The Estancia neighbors the Sierras de Mahoma mountain range, in San José, which is conveniently located between Montevideo and Colonia de Sacramento.
55 miles (90 km) from Colonia de Sacramento- 80 minutes drive
77 miles (125 km) from the capital Montevideo- 1 hour 30 minute drive
from Buenas Aires- 2 hours and 30 minutes
to La Salamora Estancia - 3 hours
from the beach area of Punta del Este- 3.5 hours drive

Riding Level: Beginner to Advanced

Itinerary
Day 1
Check in. You'll be welcomed upon arrival by the owners of Estancia Finca Piedra. You'll meet the staff, tour the Estancia, vineyards, and hear about Finca Piedra's history and ecotourism project. Enjoy a homeade, four-course lunch of fresh and delicious ingredients meal. Meet the Criollo horses, of which there are 16 for riding. The Criollo is a South American breed used for pleasure riding and ranch work. These hardy horses are the direct descendants of the horses brought to the Americas by the Spanish. You'll be introduced to the South American ways of riding these horses and then take a guided tour through the vineyards by horseback or horse cart.

Upon return to the Estancia a wine tasting of four of Finca Piedra’s reserve wine´s accompanied by local artisanal cheeses and olives, which will be provided in the outside pergola with a view of the Pinot Noir vineyard. Dinner afterwards. A Tango show and tango lesson after dinner is an optional activity with advance notice. Please note, the tango show and lesson are an additional cost of approximately $47 USD per person.

Day 2 
Breakfast with fresh and homemade products from the farm (eggs, bread, marmalades, juices, etc…) After breakfast, horseback ride towards the Sierras de Mahoma, a Natural Protected Reserve called by locals a "sea of stones." This reserve features an abundance of fauna and flora, and has breathtaking views from the top, where there is a pilgrimage site. You'll see the large cross and shrine. Once inhabited by native people, it has caves and amazing landscapes to enjoy.

Enjoy an outdoor lunch with a barbecue in a beautiful location in the Sierras. After lunch continue the tour into the Sierras. Total horseback riding tour will run up to 5 hours.

Return to the Estancia to enjoy the self guided activities and free time. Tonight, you'll have a bonfire with chorizos and delicacies native to Uruguay as an appetizer. Dinner will include the “parrilla," a Uruguayan barbecue, of lamb raised on the estancia, beef, chicken and pork with vegetables. After dinner, relax in the games room, bar or TV lounge.

Day 3
Breakfast. Today you'll head out with the estancia's gaucho. Try cow and sheep herding in the countryside or other gaucho activities, depending on the work he has that particular day. Enjoy lunch by a river with fishing or just relax with lunch in this serene setting. Next, travel by horseback through the farm and fields. Today's trek will be around 5 hours in total. Return to the Estancia and enjoy self guided activities and free time.

Have a cooking lesson with the estancia's chef, learning how to prepare typical Uruguayan meals. Dinner will include a delicious steak and Uruguayan specialties in the gastronomic restaurant “el Tannat” accompanied with wines of the estancia. After dinner, enjoy the game room, bar or TV lounge.

Day 4:
Breakfast. It's time to check out and say farewell to the estancia's staff and horses.

* This itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather, trip guide's discretion or other factors.

More on this Estancia
Finca Piedra is an exclusive ecotourism ranch. Finca Piedra offers a unique and cultural look at the life of a real working agricultural estancia. Whether on horseback, horse cart, bicycle or on foot, the vineyards, open fields and mountainous Sierras offer a variety of fauna and flora to discover. The rooms offer rustic charm and modern amenities. Fluent English, Spanish and French are spoken. Fruits, vegetables, honey, natural meats and fine wines are produced to provide freshness and quality to your meals.

Agricultural activities allow you to participate in the daily activities of a ranching life with a modern swimming pool, game room, farm animals to meet, volleyball, fishing, and more. The true beauty lies in the hidden treasures within the fields that you will discover with Fince Piedra’s resident Gaucho by horse.

A young, well-traveled couple, Jason from South Africa and Sandrine from France, own Finca Piedra, making it ideal for international guests.  Sandrine and Jason’s mission is “to conserve and protect the Natural Environment while improving the well being of the local communities for present and future generations”. Although Finca Piedra has modern amenities, the estancia has remained traditional so that guests can discover the real Uruguayan country life.

There is plenty to do at the ranch including horseback riding, lying out by the pool, taking a ride through the vineyards in a horse-cart, rural activities like visiting the nearby dairy farm or helping the gaucho doctor cattle and sheep, hiking, mountain biking, volleyball, a game room, typical Uruguayan "outdoor bowling" and more.

There is a natural reserve 1 kilometer, a little over a half mile, from the Estancia in the Sierra de Mahomas, a rocky mountain outcrop. This is a great place to go horse riding or hiking. The vineyards and farmland are also popular places on the estancia to ride, as terrain is diverse, from rocky hills to long straits, where you can ride faster if you wish. There are forests, rocky hilltops, flat plains, rivers and vineyards to enjoy. Animals such as rabbits, wild boar, fox, tortoises, anteaters, skunk, ostrich, deer, huge lizards and a variety of birds can be seen. The area was inhabited by native people many years ago. After that, the area became known for its wineries and farms.

Out of the saddle: Visit a nearby traditional dairy farm or the little village of Mal Abrigo, only 1 kilometer (half a mile) from the Estancia to discover the old railway station and various little houses and shops of the local community. Finca Piedra’s location is ideal for those who want to take a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento, a city that has been declared historic by UNESCO. Colonia de Sacramento is only 1.5 hours drive from the Estancia, as is Montevideo.

 

Reading List

You know you’ve found a hidden gem when there aren’t even guidebooks available for the country when you travel there! Uruguay is a small, charming country with a still vibrant gaucho culture, great food and welcoming people. I felt like I was getting a genuine estancia experience in Uruguay and am excited to go back and ride again. 

-- From Equitrekking Travel founder and Emmy winning host Darley Newman.

General Guidebook
Uruguay (Lonely Planet CUSTOM Guide) (Paperback) by Gregor Clark

The first ever Lonely Planet guidebook was stapled together at a kitchen table. We're keeping that spirit alive with CUSTOM guides - sections of our most popular books combined to fit your trip. Uruguay is delightfully low-key and surprisingly diverse, but you won’t find a guidebook for it - until now. This custom guide, made up of chapters selected from Lonely Planet's Argentina guidebook, covers Uruguay, including cosmopolitan Montevideo and the wilder outer reaches. We've also included buzzing Buenos Aires because, let's face it, you're in the area already – why not take in the Buenos Aires blend of old-world languor and contemporary attitude? Sound like your kind of thing? Then this is the CUSTOM guide for you.

This book includes: Maps and detailed information to help you explore every corner of Uruguay. Chunky coverage of Buenos Aires: where to stay, where to eat, what to see. A language chapter that covers all the essential travel phrases in Argentine Spanish. Health information including recommended vaccines.

Equitrekking Coffee Table Companion Book & DVD

Equitrekking Travel Adventures on Horseback by Darley Newman with Photographs by Chip Ward available at ShopDarley.com
This companion to the PBS TV series, Equitrekking, proves that the world's most beautiful views are often best seen from atop a horse. This gorgeous book features dozens of scenic rides in the U.S. and around the globe. Denver Post review: For horse folk and dreamers, as well as fans of the show, it's a beautiful trip through stunning equestrian-friendly possibilities.   

Equitrekking: Season 1-4 DVD sets featuring Emmy winning PBS episodes. Available at ShopDarley.com

Get off the beaten path to see some of the world's most beautiful horses and classic riding destinations with host and equestrian travel expert Darley Newman with Emmy Award-winning Equitrekking, the horseback riding travel series on PBS. 

Season One: Vermont, the Carolinas, Georgia Coast, Wyoming, Colorado and Spain.

Season Two: Iceland, Coastal Ireland, Hawaii's Big Island, Irish Countryside, Maui, Virginia Hunt Country and California Wine Country.

Season Three: Arizona, Belize, Costa Rica, Kentucky, Quebec, Texas and Utah.

Season Four: Southern Spain, Alaska, Central Turkey, Quebec City and Beyond, Scotland and Wales.

  

Good Books for Horse Lovers and Equestrians

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior (Paperback) by Temple Grandin
Philosophers and scientists have long wondered what goes on in the minds of animals, and this fascinating study gives a wealth of illuminating insights into that mystery. ---Publishers Weekly

The Horse: A Miscellany of Equine Knowledge (Hardcover) by Julie Whitaker with Ian Whitelaw
The Horse is an informative gallop through everything to do with the horse:  evolution, history, biology, breeds, behavior, training, competition, health, and care—all gathered into an accessible gallery of solid information, essential facts, and fascinating trivia.                                                           

Hunter Seat Equitation (Hardcover) by George H. Morris
A classic by a world-renowned teacher and master equestrian--the definitive work on the art of teaching and riding the hunter seat, now updated to include refinements in Morris's insightful program of riding instruction.

The New Encyclopedia of the Horse (Hardcover) by Elwyn Hartley Edwards
Chronicling the history of the horse, this guide encompasses the early domestication of the horse, classical riding styles, as well as a survey of the great stud farms and current international sporting events.