Wines, Whales and Waterfalls of Argentina

Overview

The Faena Buenos Aires is a striking design hotel in the waterside neighborhood of Puerto Madero, the brainchild of local empresario Alan Faena and designer Philippe Starck.

The hotel is located in the restored El Porteño building, an enormous silo built in 1902 that produced grain for post-war Europe. The décor encapsulates the grandeur of the belle époque that characterised Buenos Aires at the turn of last century. A red, black and white colour scheme runs through the hotel teamed with exposed brick walls and concrete pillars that hark back to its industrious past.

Rooms and suites are filled with eye catching touches such as hand embroidered throws and filigree mirrors and feature huge windows which look out over Ecological Reserve, the parks, Río de la Plata and the quaysides of Puerto Madero.

Eating and drinking at the Faena is a real treat. Enjoy fine dining at Bistro Sur where the menu is inspired by the finest seasonal Argentinian produce, or opt for something more casual at El Mercado which is inspired by the country’s famous cantinas and the open air markets of Europe. The Library Lounge is an intimate space filled with antique books and crysal chandeliers, while El Cabaret, inspired by the city’s 1920s tango clubs, is where you can catch the award-winning show, Rojo Tango.

The hotel also features a spa, fitness centre and an outdoor pool.

Overview

Located in the prestigious Recoleta neighborhood, the Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires seamlessly blends an early-20th-century mansion with a modern high-rise, offering a fusion of contemporary comfort and European-style elegance. Throughout the hotel, from the lavishly decorated rooms to the refined communal areas, there is a distinct sense of luxury and sophistication.

The chic, well-appointed guest rooms ensure the utmost in comfort and privacy, providing a serene space for you to relax and recharge. Perfect for family vacations, the spacious suites offer you ample room, featuring separate areas for sleeping and living to enhance your stay while you’re not out exploring the city and surrounds.

At Michelin-selected Elena, a two-story restaurant inspired by the historic homes of San Telmo, the focus is on dry-aged meats, brasserie fare and charcuterie. Savor some of Argentina’s finest meats and seafood, paired with an exceptional selection of regional wines. Meanwhile, at Nuestro Secreto, outdoor barbecues offer a unique dining experience, turning Buenos Aires’ traditional asado into a social event centered on top-tier grilled meats. End your evening at the equestrian-themed Pony Line bar, where creative cocktails, gourmet burgers and live DJs create a vibrant atmosphere.

Overview

The Alvear Palace Hotel opened its doors in 1932 and has remained one of the city’s most iconic hotels ever since. Located in the exclusive Recoleta neighbourhood, everything about the Alvear is incredibly well thought through with lots of little touches that make it a really special place to stay.

The hotel’s 192 rooms and suites are impeccable designed with a mix of Empire, Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. Sumptuous fabrics and elegant furnishing are complimented by decorative arts and paintings by Argentinian artists. The larger lounge suites offer butler service so you can make the most of your stay.

Enjoy sophisticated French cuisine at La Bourgogne, and a decadent afternoon tea in L’Orangerie before sampling an expertly mixed cocktail at the lobby bar, which has long been a meeting place for well-known members of Buenos Aires society. Enjoying a tipple at the rooftop bar is also not to be missed, with its spectacular views over Alvear Avenue.

When you’re not out exploring all that the Argentinean capital has to offer, relax and unwind in the spa, wellness area, fitness centre and rooftop pool with adjoining pool bar.

Overview

Located in the heart of the French heritage district of Recoleta in a restored belle epoque mansion, the Park Hyatt is a luxury hotel that offers the perfect base from which to explore this vibrant city.

There are 165 elegant rooms and suites, featuring all the modern luxuries that one would expect from a hotel of this ilk as well as period flourishes and detail in keeping with the history of the building. Buenos Aires is a city known for its gastronomy and the offerings at the hotel do not disappoint. Enjoy Argentinian cuisine at Duhau Restaurante and Vinoteca – where there are 7,000 bottles of Argentinian wine to choose from, or Italian at Gioia Restaurante and Terrazas. Satisfy your sweet tooth with afternoon tea at Los Salones del Piano Nobile, then end the day at The Oak Bar with its wood burning fireplace and garden views.

When you’re not out exploring the city, unwind at the Ahin Spa. Ahin in local dialect signifies a welcoming ceremony for an honoured visitor and guests visiting the spa are sure to appreciate the warm welcome. There is also a fitness centre and heated indoor swimming pool as well as a lovely garden in which to relax.

Overview

Set in the fashionable and leafy district of Palermo, Legado Mitico is a beautiful boutique hotel within easy reach of the city’s main attractions and restaurants.

Located in a refurbished three-storey townhouse, the hotel draws on the rich historical culture of Argentina. There are 11 rooms each inspired by a famous figure such as tango dancer Carlos Gardel, writer Jorge Luis Borges, and Evita. A warm colour scheme runs throughout the rooms and wooden floors and period antique pieces give them lots of traditional charm.

The cultural theme extends into the communal areas with a small library in the lounge where the more inquisitive guest can read all about the historic figures that inspire the decoration of the room. The library opens out onto a small patio where guests can relax with a drink.

Overview

Hub Porteño is a historic property set on a quiet street in the heart of Recoleta, and feels more like a home than a hotel. There are just 11 rooms, bright and spacious and filled with antique furniture and more recent pieces from local artisans.

The hotel’s rooftop terrace is a beautiful spot with outdoor seating nestled among the lush greenery – a real city centre oasis. Here you can relax with a drink from the bar and a bite to eat or simply sit back with the morning paper. La Pecora Nera Grill specialises in new Argentinian cuisine while the cosy living room is the place to enjoy drinks and snacks.

There is also a wellness centre with a sauna, gym and treatment room.

Overview

Nuss Hotel is located in a converted convent in the lively are of Palermo, next to the colourful Plaza Serrano. The surrounding streets are lined with boutique shops, excellent restaurants and art galleries.

There are 22 bright rooms with city views – some of the deluxe rooms have their own small balconies. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea, drinks and tapas at Deli Lobby Lounge.

Facilities also include a spa area with gym, sauna and massage room and a very pleasant terrace with a small pool.

Overview

Estancia Rincon del Socorro is one of our favourite estancias in all of Argentina, as it’s the ideal base for exploring the wildlife-rich wetlands of the Iberá National Park. Set in a farm originally constructed in 1896, the property weaves a classic European style throughout all of its 11 rooms and galleries. Within the main room of the estancia there is a fireplace, where the crackling flames will warm you on colder days.

For dining, Estancia Rincon del Socorro combines local recipes with Argentinian and international dishes in the onsite restaurant, with ingredients that have been cultivated in the organic garden. Tantalise your taste buds with the delicious flavours of the Argentinian barbecue, asado.

Experiences to embark on during your stay include wildlife safaris, where you can head out on walks into the land surrounding the estancia to spot creatures such as ostriches, foxes, capybaras and marsh deer. Admire the diverse landscapes of the Iberá National Park on a horseback ride, or sail across the peaceful waters of the Iberá Lagoon. The Iberá National Park brims with bird-life: traipse through the wilderness to contemplate species such as the strange-tailed tyrant, the yellow cardinal and the crowned eagle.

When you return to the estancia at the end of a long day exploring, take a moment to dip your feet into the outdoor pool and listen to the melody of the budgerigars that flit in the trees nearby.

Overview

Nestled in the northeastern corner of the Iberá

Natural Reserve, the sublime Puerto Valle Hotel de Esteros stands on 14 hectares of magnificent, landscaped grounds.

Built in 1868 as a traditional manor, this luxury hotel is composed of 13 standard, deluxe and duplex suites. Each room is fitted out with Egyptian cotton sheets, a pillow menu and L’Occitane amenities, and features impressive views of the river. A pool and deck offer guests the perfect spot for relaxation and an organic garden feeds the kitchen.

The Iberá Natural Reserve is one of the largest fresh water reservoirs on the continent, and the largest protected area in Argentina. Located on the shores of a lagoon and the banks of the Parana River, the hotel has private access to the wetlands and can provide exciting river actives such as cruises and safaris.

Keep your eyes peeled for the neotropical otter, the maned wolf, the Pampas deer, the marshland deer and two species of caiman, the yacare and the broad-snouted caiman.

Overview

The Melia Iguazu is the only hotel within the grounds of the national park on the Argentinean side of the Falls.

It has 169 modern rooms of a good standard – some of which feature views of the falls – which are only a short walk away.

There are a wide range of dining facilities, with the ‘Garganta del Diablo’ restaurant one of the best in the area, as well as swimming pools, spa and a gym.

Overview

Actually inside the national park on the Brazilian side, this luxury property is ideally located. Walking out from the lobby one can hear the thunder of the falls and the hotel is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest.

The hotel has been recently refurbished throughout to a high standard and in keeping with the colonial mansion style of the hotel’s original design.

The hotel has large rooms with high ceilings, hard wood flooring and period style furniture. There is a large pool area in the rear to relax at with a drink after a day exploring the falls.

Overview

Eolo sits on a 10,000-acre estancia in the Patagonian steppe between the town of El Calafate and the majestic Perioto Merino glacier.

The hotel has been built to ensure that wherever you are, you can take in these incredible views. Eolo is centred around a courtyard garden, a nifty bit of architecture that means guests can enjoy the great outdoors whilst being protected from the wild Patagonian winds.

There are 17 beautiful rooms characterised by pastel colours and simple lines. Nothing is overly complicated here, simplicity is key when your surroundings are so dramatic. There are no televisions in the rooms, instead guests are encouraged to curl up on one of the sofas that are placed in front of the large picture windows. Eolo was inspired by the historic estancias of the area and you’ll find antiques, maps, telescopes and lots of other traditional touches.

The food at Eolo is a real highlight. Excellent local, seasonal produce is used to create a dynamic and exciting menu. The views that await from your dining table make the experience even sweeter.

This is an area begging to be explored, and there are plenty of activites on offer. Hiking, horseriding, birdwatching and mountain biking are some of the experiences to keep you busy. At the hotel itself there is an area for relaxation with a small heated pool, dry sauna and massage room.

All meals and non-alcoholic drinks are included during your stay at Eolo.

Overview

On a steep bank overlooking Lago Argentino a little way outside of El Calafate, Xelena Hotel & Suites enjoys a quiet, majestic location. It is the perfect base from which to explore Argentina’s breathtaking Patagonia area.

Comfort and warmth defines the hotel’s personality, and the team pride themselves on the attentive and personalised service offered to guests.

Many of the 70 rooms have lake views, and all are extremely spacious with contemporary features. There’s also a large heated indoor-outdoor swimming pool and spa – a real highlight of the hotel – two large dining areas and a bar.

Overview

A chic and highly anticipated addition to Mendoza’s collection of boutique properties.

A contemporary, low-lying structure, the hotel seems to have been built so as not to disturb the uniform horizon of the Uco Valley’s perfectly combed vineyards. The smart collection of twenty-two villas echo this style and with their exposed interior stone facades, wall-to-ceiling windows, earthy tones and simple elegance combine for an aura of modernistic calm. There are one or two bedroom sizes available, and each comes with its own modern kitchen, sitting areas and private patio.

And there’s more.

The hotel has additionally modeled itself on being a culinary resort as well, managing to secure a restaurant designed by the internationally renowned chef, Francis Mallmann. There is a Winery on the estate for tastings, wine making tours and activities, not to mention a full spa for expert pampering.

Try some horse riding in the morning through the vineyards and high blue skies, followed by breakfast and a swim in the infinity pool that drops off into the combed lines of twisted vines beyond. In the afternoon, maybe some wine tasting with lunch and a spoiling treatment at the spa.

Overview

Cavas Wine Lodge is one of the most luxurious and romantic accommodations from which to explore the Argentinean wine region.

Each of the rooms has its own private plunge pool and impressive views out across the vineyards to the Andes.

The hotel also has an excellent spa facility and is one of the most luxurious and romantic accommodations from which to explore the Argentinean wine region.

The Cavas restaurant offers a superb seasonal menu using organic products. There is also a spacious underground cellar showcasing 250 carefully selected wines from the Mendoza region. Guests can enjoy wine tasting with the resident sommelier upon request. Both bed and breakfast and full board options are available here.

Overview

Certainly standing out from most other Mendoza hotels, EntreCielos is very much on the contemporary cusp and bravely looks ahead to luxury wine lodges of the future.

In-keeping with the minimal modernist design, the exterior is non-descript and inside takes the mould of a concrete bunker. However, don’t let this discourage you because the décor of soft, sparkling floor and ceiling lights as well as the rich textures and inviting soft furnishings gives it a stylish and luxurious warmth. A total renovation of the property was completed in May 2011 and the rough bare walls interrupted with sheer glass playing out the beyond scenery of vines, mountains and skies makes for a pleasant journey of contrast when walking the maze-like hallways.

There is a large spa modelled on the traditional Hammam, where you can get a massage, facial, sit back in steam rooms, or plunge yourself between hot and cold pools.

Five categories of rooms are grouped and styled to the different ages of wine, and all have private terraces, iPod docks, air con and free WiFi. The ‘Young’ or superior rooms exude a fun vibe and are good for families. ‘Classic’ or superior deluxe rooms are slightly bigger, come with a four-poster bed or twin and have bright, vibrant bathrooms with a freestanding bath tub. Next up is the ‘Reserva’ or junior suites with similar amenities to the Classic yet is 50m² and at 85 m² is the ‘Gran Reserva’ or Duplex suite (of which there are 4), which enjoys two levels and unique views of the Andes, vineyards and surrounding gardens. At the top is ‘Grand Cru’ or super king with 95 m² to roam about in, a private terrace with Jacuzzi, rainforest shower and coffee machine. Currently uncompleted but soon to pip the Grand Cru is the exclusively private vineyard loft.

With a good range of activities and a helpful team of staff, the food served in the in-house restaurant is very good and well matched with the wine from their cavernous cellar.

Overview

Set in the fashionable and leafy district of Palermo, Legado Mitico is a beautiful boutique hotel within easy reach of the city’s main attractions and restaurants.

Located in a refurbished three-storey townhouse, the hotel draws on the rich historical culture of Argentina. There are 11 rooms each inspired by a famous figure such as tango dancer Carlos Gardel, writer Jorge Luis Borges, and Evita. A warm colour scheme runs throughout the rooms and wooden floors and period antique pieces give them lots of traditional charm.

The cultural theme extends into the communal areas with a small library in the lounge where the more inquisitive guest can read all about the historic figures that inspire the decoration of the room. The library opens out onto a small patio where guests can relax with a drink.

Overview

Hub Porteño is a historic property set on a quiet street in the heart of Recoleta, and feels more like a home than a hotel. There are just 11 rooms, bright and spacious and filled with antique furniture and more recent pieces from local artisans.

The hotel’s rooftop terrace is a beautiful spot with outdoor seating nestled among the lush greenery – a real city centre oasis. Here you can relax with a drink from the bar and a bite to eat or simply sit back with the morning paper. La Pecora Nera Grill specialises in new Argentinian cuisine while the cosy living room is the place to enjoy drinks and snacks.

There is also a wellness centre with a sauna, gym and treatment room.

Overview

The Alvear Palace Hotel opened its doors in 1932 and has remained one of the city’s most iconic hotels ever since. Located in the exclusive Recoleta neighbourhood, everything about the Alvear is incredibly well thought through with lots of little touches that make it a really special place to stay.

The hotel’s 192 rooms and suites are impeccable designed with a mix of Empire, Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. Sumptuous fabrics and elegant furnishing are complimented by decorative arts and paintings by Argentinian artists. The larger lounge suites offer butler service so you can make the most of your stay.

Enjoy sophisticated French cuisine at La Bourgogne, and a decadent afternoon tea in L’Orangerie before sampling an expertly mixed cocktail at the lobby bar, which has long been a meeting place for well-known members of Buenos Aires society. Enjoying a tipple at the rooftop bar is also not to be missed, with its spectacular views over Alvear Avenue.

When you’re not out exploring all that the Argentinean capital has to offer, relax and unwind in the spa, wellness area, fitness centre and rooftop pool with adjoining pool bar.