La Bamba de Areco

Live like a gaucho at this rural escape

One of Argentina’s best boutique estancias for experience and elegance, La Bamba de Areco is an intimate, authentic stay in the heart of the Pampas plains. Just 120 kilometres from Buenos Aires, and within striking distance of one of the oldest towns in Argentina, San Antonio de Areco, the estancia captures the rugged romance of the gaucho way of life whilst still being impeccably stylish, well–run, and easily accessible.

Avenues of plane trees lead you through the ranch’s lush parklands and paddocks to the typically 19th-century corralled casco (main house) painted in proud Vermillion red and white – permitting in parts a couple of vines to steal up its walls. The building was once an important private home along the Camino Real (Royal Road), and still retains the grandeur of its history.

Its eleven rooms are decorated in a smart, farmhouse style that blends classic rustic-chic with contemporary elegance. They open up onto the ranch’s shaded wraparound patios, perfect for relaxing, watching the ponies and al fresco dining in summer. La Pulperia is the estancia’s own authentic gaucho inn converted to a separate lounge bar and boutique. Naturally, there are a number of equestrian activities to choose from, including spectating polo matches.