Estancias & The Gauchos

Argentina has always been the land of cattle, open spaces and the Argentinian institution "the estancia", a large estate ranch. Most estancias, many with luxurious estate houses, are found in the Pampean plains, which got their name from the Quechua Indian word for "flatland". Spread out the to the north, south and west, these extensive plains were inhabited by gauchos, decendants of Spanish Conquistadors, and the indomitable aboriginies of the land. They were experts with "boleadoras" (three rock hard leather balls tied to a rope and used for hunting), lassos, the "facon" (gaucho knives), and the guitar. A few of the more elegant estancias are open to the more sophisticated traveler. Visits to these beautiful colonial ranches usually features horseback riding, wildlife watching, hiking and the general day to day farm activities of the property.

There are certain estancieas that are recommended for the foreign visitor and these listed here are but a few. For information of additional estancias, contact the experts at Marco Polo Vacations. (Estancia packages normally require a minimum stay of 2 nights).

Recommended Estancias

El Ombu De Areco (Buenos Aires)

This magnificent Itialian-style farmhouse was built in 1890 by General Richieri and is surrounded by 30 acres of fields. The location in San Antonio de Areco is only 68 miles from Buenos Aires. The many activities include swimming, horseback riding, rides in old carriages,parlorgames, farm observation and visits to the San Antonio de Areco and Ricardo Guiraldes museums. Nearby there is golf and tennis at the San Antonio de Areco Club.

El Faisan (Buenos Aires)

This popular estancia is located in Lobos, 75 miles from Buenos Aires. The building has a typical architecture of the early 20th century. It belongs to the Zuberbuller family, recognized for their gracious hospitality. The nearby San Agustin Estancia is owned by the same family.

La Candelaria (Buenos Aires)

At the end of the 19th century, Orestes Piheiro founded this cattle ranch which he named La Candelaria in honor of his wife. A huge park surrounds its ornate French-style castle. The colonial house, as well as the polo course, tennis court and swimming pool, all show a high level of sophistication. The estancia is located in Lobos, 75 miles from Buenos Aires

San Pedro (Buenos Aires)

San Pedro is one of the oldest estancias in Argentina. The main house was originally built in 1872. Every third Sunday, the residents and neighbors of the village gather at this splendid gothic chapel. The estancia is located in the Entre Rios Province, 200 miles from Buenos Aires.

Santa Candida (Buenos Aires)

A Three and a half hour drive from Buenos Aires lies Santa Candida. A visit to Santa Candida is like a jump back into the splendor of mid-19th century Argentina. General Urquiza, who developed the site in 1847, regined over the area like an Oriental potentate. As one arrives by the ranch's private boat, an avenue of Italianesque statues rises from the river's edge to accompany the visitor to the mansion's stone terrace.

Villa Maria (Buenos Aires)

Villa Mariais a Norman Tudor farmhouse built at the beginning of the 20th century. Its large living room, dining room, lounge and billard room are all tastefully furnished. The estancia is located in Maximo Paz, 35 miles from downtown Buenos Aires. Activities include walks, horseback riding, bicycling, swimming, tennis and croquet.

Alta Vista (Patagonia)

Surrounded by 132,000 acres of sheep-farming land and overlooking the Perito Moreno Glacier, Alta Vista has made the transition from a private home to a comfortable 7-room inn of international reputation. An ample lounge and a cozy dining room provide guests with an excellent setting for stress free activities and delicious meals of regional cuisine. It is located on the land of the legendary Estancia Anita, near Roca Lake (in the southern arm of Lago Argentina), only 22 miles from El Calafate.

La Maipu (Patagonia)

La Maipu is located on the south shore of San Martin Lake, near Maipu Peninsula, and only 170 miles from El Calafate. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of Fitz Roy and the Torre Hill Chains. Activities include trekking, horseback riding, birdwatching, photography and taking part in the farm work

Nibepo Aike (Patagonia)

This estancia looks like a typical Patagonian building and has been adapted to receive guests. It is situated in the Los Glaciares National Park, on the southern end of Roca Lake, just 18 miles from Puerto Moreno Glacier and 37 miles from El Calafate.

El Mantial De Nuestra (Northwest)

Located only 20 miles from Salta, El Manatial is the finest estancia in the northwestern part of the county. there is horseback riding (on the famous Peruvian horses), trekking and many other activities to keep the visitors occupied. The estancia's location, at the foot of the Andes, offers magnificent picturesque views./p>