There's a great range of accommodation all over this fabulous country, but there are some places that have got something a bit special about them - whether its their location or the style of accommodation. I've selected just a few properties here (from bells and whistles hotels to simple lodges) that it would definitely be worth considering as part of your itinerary. But of course there are many more that I'd be able to recommend.
Estancia Rincon del Socorro, Iberos de Ibera. This is a 12,000-hectare former cattle ranch on the edge of the Iberá wetlands in northeastern Argentina that has been made into a nature reserve. It is a small, refined eco-tourist property with only 6 rooms in the main house and 3 bungalows within 50 metres of the house, all with private bathrooms. This place is very remote – you have to travel via a light aircraft to get here – but you’ll be plonk in the middle of the wetlands with the amazing range of wildlife.
El Manatial del Silencio, Purmamarca. Situated just above the village of Purmamarca and with a picture postcard view onto the Hill of Seven Colours, this hotel is an unexpected oasis of comfort and tranquillity in the heart of the spectacular Humahuaca Gorge. The design, both inside and out, is colonial and elegant; with long stone corridors, archways, and a predominance of white giving the whole place a fresh feel. The star of the show here is the hotel’s location – well worth considering a couple of days here rather than hurrying back to Salta after a day tour of the area.
Awasi, Iguazu. Nestled in the Atlantic rainforest, just 20 minutes from the renowned Iguazú Falls, Awasi consists of a main lodge and 14 private guest villas. The villas are set on stilts and scattered through the jungle, carefully spaced for privacy. Each lodge comes with its own outdoor shower, plunge pool and the services of a private guide as well as access to a 4x4 vehicle. This gives you the freedom to go beyond the falls at a pace that suits you. In addition to Iguazú Falls, you can also explore nearby ruins and trails through the rainforest.
Legado Mitico, Buenos Aires. I always stay at this lovely boutique hotel when I’m visiting Buenos Aires. You could easily miss the hotel's discreet entrance - in a great location on this cobbled street in fashionable Palermo. 11 rooms are all themed on great Argentines - each decorated to a high standard, with all mod cons that you would expect beautifully mixed with classic furniture. On the ground floor there’s a peaceful library which opens onto a small courtyard, a peaceful oasis well away from the hustle and bustle of the city, And on the top floor there’s an open air Jacuzzi. And all the staff here are friendly and very obliging. There’s a sister property in Salta in the country’s North West.
Cavas Wine Lodge, Mendoza. This unique hotel is designed to be the best in the region and certainly doesn't disappoint. It has an excellent reputation for a high level of service and a great selection of wines. Situated among the vines, it's a wonderful place to escape to for a few days to enjoy some fine wine and great food. The rooms are beautifully appointed, and the rooftops are a great place for a drink at sunset. If you like to be a bit more energetic there’s a wide range of activities (not all wine based) that the hotel can arrange for you, including trekking in the foothills of the Andes, horse riding, or even rafting.
El Casco Art Hotel, Lake District. 11 km from the centre of Bariloche, this hotel has 33 rooms with spectacular views across Nahuel Huapi Lake. The air conditioned and heated rooms are very well equipped with comfortable furnishings, plasma screens and CD player. Added to this are beautiful pieces of art, each room with different pieces by prestigious Argentinian artists. The health club provides an excellent range of facilities including a fantastic outdoor/indoor swimming pool and the restaurant offers sophisticated cuisine designed by a top Argentinian chef.
Explora, El Chalten. This is a superb all-inclusive luxury lodge in a stunning setting, surrounded by views of the Marconi Glacier and Electric Valley. There’s fabulous cuisine, beautifully appointed rooms, and a spa and outdoor jacuzzis. All your activities and excursions are included here and Explora’s expert local guides are eager to lead you into the surrounding mountains, valleys, glaciers and lagoons of the Argentinian Patagonia where you can safely embark on hiking, climbing, riding, kayaking and other activities.
Estancia Rincon Chico, Peninsula Valdes. With an incredible location in the heart of this wildlife and nature paradise, this simple lodge is a special place. With only 8 bedrooms, each with private bathroom, and cosy drawing and dining rooms, this converted farmhouse offers comfort in an isolated setting and undisturbed peace. There's a price to pay for such splendid isolation - there's only electricity between 7-10pm so you can only have hot showers at night. A stay at the estancia includes a visit to their beach and the population of elephant seals. You can also arrange trips to the penguin colonies or, if you're there between June and November, you can go whale watching as the southern right whales use these waters to breed.
Has this whet your appetite for a holiday in Argentina? If you're ready to start planning your trip, get in touch now and we can get the ball rolling.
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