Where to stay in Argentina
Argentine accommodation varies from luxurious 5* city hotels to simpler family-run lodges. Estancias can be high end boutique establishments or a traditional working ranch. We tend to find that a mixture of hotels, guesthouses and lodges works well for most families and allows you to enjoy a variety of both accommodation and locations – and budgets. We know swimming pools are important so try to include these where possible although in Patagonia, swimming simply does not really appeal.
What is a typical Argentine hotel like?
Argentina has been welcoming travellers for decades and accommodation is well set up for families. Many hotels offer interconnecting or family rooms. In Buenos Aires there are the usual choices of functional city hotels (with pool of course!) or boutique establishments in specific districts. The fun really starts when you head out of ‘civilisation’ to Argentina’s most alluring accommodation – the legendary estancias.
Two hours outside Buenos Aires, nestled deep among the open plains of the Argentine Pampas, lies La Bandada. This gorgeous estancia dates back to the 1830s and is located in a beautiful park with views out onto the seemingly endless landscape of the pampas.
Here you can take gentle horse rides, walk around the park or bike around this peaceful rural landscape. Get involved in the estancia’s day to day working routine, help out with the farm animals and get a firsthand understanding of this traditional way of life. Or simply relax after a good swim, working up an appetite for the mouth-watering cuisine this establishment is famed for. For the quintessential Argentine pastime, take a polo lesson – the sport of kings!
In Patagonia similar salubrious estancias exist. Some are many hours transfer from the nearest town and offer two to three day stays deep in the heart of the Andean wilderness. However one of our favourites offers that same remote feeling yet is more child-friendly and easily accessible from the mountain hub of El Calafate. Located at the far end of the Cristina Channel on the northwest coast of Lake Argentino, Estancia Cristina stands on a remote corner of Los Glaciares National Park. Founded in 1914, the estancia maintains its pioneering history, turning this solitary place into a small piece of paradise.
Accessible only by boat, the estancia occupies an exclusive and privileged setting built on a glacial valley in one of the area’s most spectacular natural settings. On day trips you can ride horses through rivers and trek to the Upsala Glacier and Southern Patagonian Ice-Field. You can explore the fascinating Fossil Canyon or take 4X4s to the Feruglio Mountains and learn about the history of the pioneers. For those families lucky (or canny) enough to stay overnight, you will get to experience firsthand life at this colonial lodge, with its remote location surrounded by picturesque views of snow-capped mountains, lakes, rivers and hanging glaciers. An authentic off-the-grid experience.
For those heading to the Ibera Wetlands before, or after their trip to Iguazu, Puerto Valle is a magical escape from the tourist hordes of the falls or the bustle of Buenos Aires. Sitting on the banks of the Paraná River, this idyllic Posada is a heavenly place to unwind after a busy holiday. The peacefulness of shady hammocks overlooking the river and an open air bar all add up to something quite special. The restaurant is well renowned and the beautiful grounds a delight to stroll through, making Puerto Valle one of our favourite ‘downtime’ locations.
Recreational activities include canoe safaris, photo safaris, horse-rides, mountain biking and hiking trails. All offer great opportunities to spot the magnificent wildlife this area is famed for. Keep your eyes peeled for capybaras (the largest rodent on earth – think giant hamster), caiman (a smallish alligator), armadillo, giant anteaters and countless exotic birds including the recently re-introduced red macaw.
In addition children will love getting involved with the caiman conservation programme. Observe the nursery and arboretum’s work to prevent local deforestation and participate in the modern day tasks of a working farm. The children can also race freely along the Monkey Path, regularly visited by families of howler monkeys known for their incessant bickering. Remind you of anyone…?
These are just a few examples of places to stay in Argentina that we love. All our holidays are tailor-made, so once we have found out a bit more about you and your family, we will suggest places that will suit your family, bearing in mind the ages and interests of your children and your budget.
Call us and we will be happy to provide you with a free-of-charge no obligation itinerary and quotation designed for you.
01728 752751
Argentina in pictures