Experience an Authentic Estancia in Argentina
If you have time to venture into Buenos Aires province, Patagonia or Cordoba, a visit to an estancia (ranch) allows a glimpse of Argentina's rural culture, its horses, gauchos, grand houses and elegant traditions.
If you're looking for the best estancias to visit in Argentina, look no further, for we've compiled the working list of the best ones to visit.
ESTANCIA VILLA MARIA
The historic compound of the estancia includes a superb Tudor-Normand rural palace that was built in 1927 by the prestigious architect Alejandro Bustillo, and which today works as a boutique hotel and estancia.
Located just 45 minutes from the City of Buenos Aires, and only 15 minutes form Ezeiza International Airport. Estancia Villa Maria’s historical ranch houses, ground, ample plots of lands, urban design and services make this Estancia an unique venue for a stylish event. This estancia offers a traditional barbeque, horses for back-riding activities, swimming pool, football field, volley and croquet facilities.
ESTANCIA LA BAMBA DE ARECO
An estancia in San Antonio de Areco, member of the Relais & Châteaux community: which means that even if we arrive in sneakers – we are talking about a true ‘heels’ luxury experience. Hang out at the Pulpería, the oldest building: from the XVIII century. An authentic place with the addition of several art pieces and unique local decoration. You can spot Aldo Sessa’s photographs and Alejandro Moy’s paintings.
ESTANCIA EL COLIBRI
With the Sierras de Córdoba in the background, the Estancia El Colibri – member of the Relais & Châteaux – synthesizes the Argentinean dream of Stéphanie and Raoul Fenestraz. With its dark parquet floors, its colonial style and mottled furniture, this charming hotel is primarily inspired by the Argentinean estancias of the beginning of the prior century. Horseback riding, polo lessons or lazing by the pool precede delicious culinary experiences, with the asado (bbq), empanadas and typical Argentine pastries.
TRES RIOS – CASA DE CAMPO
It is now time for the Tres Rios Casa de Campo: a typical Patagonia style building overlooking the Alumine and Colloncura rivers. The main concept is privacy, guests are few and that is something to be really thankful for! Gourmet cuisine is part of the Experience. Every day whenever fishermens return (yes, this is a hot place for fly fishing as well) everyone is expecting you at the bar with a deluxe ‘picada’ snack before dinner time.
ESTANCIA LOS PATOS
This authentic ranch lies 72 miles out of Buenos Aries in historical San Miguel del Monte. The property has been in Angel Estrada's family for over two hundred years and he inherited it more than 35 years ago. It is a full working estancia, breeding cattle and horses and producing feed crops. Los Patos offers guests the opportunity to hunt in season; ride; and play polo on ponies bred on the property. But there is so much more in the Los Patos ambience – open skies; night stars; grasslands; wetlands; water birds; cattle; dogs; and horses with all the attendant sounds and smells. Angel is the complete host who takes the word ‘hospitality’ seriously.
LA BECASINA DELTA LODGE
It is just one quick motorboat ride away from Tigre, province of Buenos Aires. You will arrive at this oasis in the middle of the Rio Paraná Delta region. Completely isolated and private, with only 15 bungalows available, right in the middle of this natural environment. You will feel like you are in the middle of the jungle, only living a king’s life. Good gastronomy, an incredible pool with a river view, and please do not miss the spa! I can give my honest statement: these massages are worth every single penny to add to this experience.
ESTANCIA ARROYO VERDE
Estancia Arroyo Verde is not only paradise for anglers, there are incredible, majestic hiking, walking and riding trails. The 10.000 thousand acre property is crisscrossed by numerous paths, some taking you to the high peaks overlooking the lake, valley, river and offering spectacular views of the Andean Condor in flight.
PUERTO VALLE - ESTEROS DEL IBERA
Just two hours away from Buenos Aires City by plane, Puerto Valle is the ideal destination to combine with a trip to the Iguazu Falls, stopping over at the San Ignacio Miní Ruins, which are conveniently located at a 1.5 hour-ride from the hotel.
Puerto Valle offers guests an exclusive gateway to the wildlife of Iberá National Park, the world’s second largest wetland, in the most extensive natural reserve of Argentina. Puerto Valle is the only luxury lodge in the Iberá Wetlands, an authentic Argentine estancia built in 1868 on the Paraná River bank, an exceptional location where nature meets tradition, high-end personalized service and superb regional cuisine to provide you with a unique experience.
Known as the “river tiger” fishing the dorado is one of the most exciting and challenging fishing experiences due to it’s fighting abilities. The dorado, with it’s great weight and strength, is a powerful fighter who strikes aggressively, leaps high and runs hard. Once on the hook the dorado will fight until the end with its impressive stamina and give you a battle unlike any other you’ve experienced. Join us for the ultimate fresh water fly fishing of the golden dorado in the Corrientes and Parana Rivers of Argentina!
ESTANCIA HELSINGFORDS
Modernized to a high standard, Helsingfors offers a level of comfort and service a step above many other estancias. From its grounds you can see Mount Fitzroy, glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and bright blue lakes, and this accommodation is so exclusive and remote, you're likely to have the views almost to yourself.
