Estancias

"Estancias" are not really farms, but closer to the equivalent of an American ranch. Some are working estancias, with large extensions of cattle-grazing, natural prairies, three or four thousand sheep or maybe hundreds of head of cattle, and a hundred or so horses. Others, such as romantic "La Jacinta", near Punta del Este, have become the favorite resort for those visitors to the Atlantic beaches who appreciate a more informal, secluded type of environment than the traditional hotel can offer.

In a typical "estancia" the buildings include a main house and very often in the old ones, a small chapel; several large barns for wool and grain storage, a large common house for the single workers and separate quarters for the married ones. If the family who owns the ranch are also breeders, there will be a separate special barn where the prized bulls, rams or stallions spend their pampered lives in preparation for the annual cattle shows and auctions.

Depending on the original owner's background and preferences, you may see Spanish-style, tiled patios complete with well and large potted plants, or English-looking parks surrounding the main building. Tennis courts and swimming pools are not uncommon; as ranch owners try to keep their children close together instead of seeing them disappear to the seaside during the summer vacation.

The estancias where we will be staying are some of Uruguay's most beautiful - and comfortable. Your bedroom will be spacious and well furnished, and bathrooms are as big or bigger than the one in a regular American home.