Colonia and surrounds

Colonia del Sacramento, 2 hours west of Montevideo, was founded by Portuguese settlers from Brazil in 1680, as a rival to the Spanish Buenos Aires on the other side of the River Plate. It has (in the Barrio Histórico) some of the only, and best-preserved, colonial architecture in this part of South America, including interesting museums and churches.

There are good beaches nearby (the best is Playa Ferrando, 2km east), although the water is fresh and brown!

Our preferred accommodation

means that the hotel is one of our Dream Destinations.

Carmelo Resort and Spa

Beach hotel - near Carmelo
A chalet-style resort hotel close to Carmelo and around one hour from Colonia. The hotel is surrounded by pine and eucalyptus trees, and overlooks the River Plate. There is a large outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a terrace, an indoor swimming pool and spa, tennis courts and two restaurants.
Casa de los Limoneros

Country hotel - Outskirts of Colonia
A beautifully renovated house with a mature garden and orchard of lemon trees with an outdoor swimming pool. It looks rather like an old English railway station but surrounded by a verandah. The owner Mario lives there all the time.
Charco Hotel

Inn/Posada - Colonia
A charming, small posada on the banks of the River Plate, a short walk from the central square. The colonial building has been renovated maintaining many original features, and there is a small garden and a restaurant.
Narbona Wine Lodge

Country hotel - near Carmelo
Just outside the small town of Carmelo and surrounded by vineyards, this winery lodge is ideal for those looking to spend a couple of days relaxing and sampling Uruguay's famous wines. The hotel also makes its own dairy products, including cheeses, yoghurts and ice creams, which are available in the restaurant.