A recent article published by CNN Travel lists the ten main reasons to visit Uruguay. Be it on the coast or the grasslands, there are countless reasons to have a great experience in this land of warm people and unforgettable landscapes.
A blossoming wine industry
Wines are clearly part of the ten main reasons to visit Uruguay. The Republic of Uruguay has a blossoming wine industry that produces wine of the finest quality: the country has become a prominent producer within the New World. It is within this context that Bodega Garzón has become a landmark in the wine industry worldwide.
This impressive winery was designed by renowned Argentine architects Bórmida & Yanzón, whose work includes famous wineries such as O. Fournier, Salentein, Bodega Vistalba and The Vines Resort & Spa. Bodega Garzón is the first winery in the world which is in the process of having all of its facilities LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certified.
Bodega Garzón, whose design is in harmony with its surroundings, has a production capacity of 2 million litres, which include labels that have been internationally acclaimed. Our winery produces notable wines based on Uruguay’s flagship varieties, which is illustrated by the fact that Garzón Tannat 2013 and Garzón Albariño 2014 were selected for British Airways in-flight services. These impressive harvests are part of the first-class menu in flights to South America, the Caribbean, Africa and India, from or to Gatwick airport.
In turn, our emblematic white wine has recently received more international awards. Garzón Albariño 2014 was selected as surprising variety by the prestigious Decanter magazine. It was recommended by the expert panel, which placed it within the Top 10 of the 50 Value Buys from South America.
It is so that Bodega Garzón provides a new experience to visitors, together with its restaurant and olive oil boutique production plant, which make our winery an iconic wine tourism destination in Uruguay.
A coastal country
With beaches running 340 km along the coastline, Uruguay is a true paradise for sea lovers. The ever charming landscapes to be found along the coast range from cities to unspoilt, hidden native forests.
Chic and avant-garde Punta del Este is one of the most glamorous and luxurious seaside resorts in the Americas. In the other end, the beaches of Cabo Polonio, Valizas, and Punta del Diablo keep the small town spirit alive, and captivate visitors with their peace and quiet. In between, the raging waves of La Paloma or the bohemian atmosphere in José Ignacio are two more choices Uruguay has to offer to sun and sea lovers.
Streets ooze with art and culture
Colonia del Sacramento was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995. Treat your senses to a walk around its picturesque cobblestone streets, or around the tree-lined streets of Carmelo.
Home to great artists and shelter of famous people that have made this country their home, Uruguay is a source of inspiration. This can be seen in sculptures and constructions that have become symbols worldwide: The Hand, by Chilean artist Mario Irrazábal, a sculpture that rises from the Brava Beach sands, or the amazing Casapueblo, local artist Carlos Páez Vilaró’s masterpiece. A network of dozens of Uruguayan history and art museums can be found throughout the country.
Countryside at the core
At the core of Uruguay, far from the city hustle and bustle, and the sea breeze, there are endless stretches of land, sometimes undulating into green slopes, that are home to the Gaucho lifestyle. Uruguay is one of the top beef exporters in the world. But Uruguayans are not only top-quality beef producers: they are also among the highest meat consumers. The local cuisine, from grilled beef to the typical chivito, explains why visitors to this paradise surrender to our gastronomy, which combines sea and countryside flavours.
In the last few years, several ranches and farms have opened their doors to visitors, providing the opportunity to live the countryside experience. This includes equestrian sports, learning to cook using wood or clay ovens, and being part of the mate round: our inseparable friend. Tacuarembó, Lavalleja or picturesque Pueblo Garzón are a few of our favourite rural tourism destinations.
Wine, sea, culture, city life, art and countryside make this destination an unmissable experience. However, for this list to be complete, we must mention its people. Uruguay’s mild climate seems to have shaped the character of its native people. In this sense, the kindness and warmth of Uruguayans, and the excellent service infrastructure the country offers, make visiting this beautiful location an even more pleasant experience. And as if that were not enough, carnival is a two-month celebration in Uruguay, which confirms that there are more than just ten reasons to make this destination worth visiting.
