Generated with sparks and insights from 9 sources

Summary

Anna Polonsky's food-fueled road trip through Coastal Uruguay offers a blend of beach, country, culture, and food. From staying in a picturesque village to dining at renowned restaurants and exploring local art and beaches, this itinerary encapsulates the essence of Uruguay's southeastern coast.

🌅 Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

The journey begins with a scenic drive to Garzón, settling into a charming casita, and exploring local art and the village's natural beauty.

📍 Garzón

Garzón, a picturesque village, is known for its art galleries, ceramics studio, and the natural beauty of its countryside. The village offers a serene escape with its vast landscapes and roaming horses, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

img6

img7

img8

img9

img10

img11

img12

img13

img14

img15

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "CAMINANDO POR PUEBLO GARZ\u00d3N", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dChUK-vhIw", "channel": { "name": "Uruguay Natural"}, "published_date": "Feb 26, 2016", "length": "1:30" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Jos\u00e9 Ignacio y Laguna Garz\u00f3n, Uruguay", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGOPifMH9wM", "channel": { "name": "Europa acompañada"}, "published_date": "Dec 11, 2020", "length": "8:04" }</div>

Tips

Consider staying at Posada del Faro or Camino if not staying in a private casita. These accommodations provide a perfect blend of comfort and proximity to the village's artistic and natural attractions.

Day 2: Culinary Delights

A day filled with culinary experiences, starting with dinner at Francis Mallmann's historic restaurant, showcasing fire-cooked cuisine.

Hotel Garzón

Hotel Garzón is a historic restaurant located in a divinely designed setting, offering a unique dining experience where everything is cooked in the fire. The cuisine is unpretentious yet impeccable, requiring extreme technique but feeling approachable and generous.

img6

img7

img8

img9

img10

img11

img12

img13

img14

img15

Tips

Try the empanadas salteñas, which are some of the best, and don't miss the cult "pancake de dulce de leche" for a delightful end to your meal.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +59844102811
🌐   Website: http://www.restaurantegarzon.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 20 min to 2 hr
📍   Address: Costa Jose Ignacio y, 20401 Garzón, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay

🏖️ Day 3: Beach and Bites

Enjoying pastries, a beach day at Playa del Faro, followed by a local lunch and shopping for unique knitwear.

<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> La Panader\u00eda\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (1.8 km, \ud83d\ude98 6 min, \ud83c\udfc3 19 min)\n>\n> Popei\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (69 m, \ud83c\udfc3 1 min)\n>\n> Bajo El Alma Taller\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>

🍞 La Panadería

La Panadería is a charming bakery known for its excellent croissants, which are made with locally sourced butter and dairy, renowned for their exceptional quality in Uruguay. The chipa, a classic Argentine/Uruguayan cheese bun, is a must-try and is being reimagined by contemporary bakers, making it a perfect addition to a beach picnic.

img6

img7

img8

img9

img10

img11

img12

img13

img14

img15

Tips

Grab a croissant and a chipa for a delightful beach picnic at Playa del Faro.

Travel Information
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 15-45 min
📍   Address: 10, 20402 La Juanita, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay
🔗   Profiles: Instagram

🍽️ Popei

Popei is a simple and authentic restaurant, exuding the ambiance of a traditional fisherman’s tavern. It is one of the oldest spots in José Ignacio, offering a genuine dining experience that reflects the local culture and culinary heritage.

img6

img7

img8

img9

img10

img11

img12

img13

img14

img15

Tips

Order the chivito, Uruguay’s national beef sandwich, for a truly authentic taste of the local cuisine.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +598 4486 2024
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: esq. Los Tordos, 20402 Faro de José Ignacio, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay
🔗   Profiles: Instagram

👗 Bajo El Alma Taller

Bajo El Alma Taller is a beloved store in José Ignacio, known for its unique beachwear and stunning knits. The clothing, made between Uruguay and Argentina, reflects the coastal lifestyle and seamlessly transitions from beachwear to stylish urban attire. The knits, in particular, are a standout, offering both warmth and style, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe.

img6

img7

img8

img9

img10

img11

img12

img13

img14

img15

Tips

Don't overlook the knits; they are perfect for both beach and urban settings, serving as a timeless and practical investment for any traveler.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +598 4486 2098
🌐   Website: http://www.paulamartini.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: C. Las Garzas 10, 20000 Faro de José Ignacio, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay

Day 4: Winery and Art

A visit to a local winery for tapas and wine, followed by an evening at a magical open-fire restaurant.

<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> Compa\u00f1\u00eda Uruguaya de Vinos de Mar\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (39.0 km, \ud83d\ude98 38 min)\n>\n> Marismo\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>

Compañía Uruguaya de Vinos de Mar

A winery offering a selection of locally harvested wines paired with delicious tapas.

img6

img7

img8

img9

img10

img11

img12

img13

img14

img15

Tips

Try the shrimp empanadas with the winery’s Pinot Noir.

Travel Information
📍   Address: 3 3, 20400 Garzón, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay
🔗   Profiles: Instagram Facebook

Marismo

A staple in José Ignacio for fire-cooked food in a magical nighttime setting.

img6

img7

img8

img9

img10

img11

img12

img13

img14

img15

Tips

Order the shrimp and the memorable provoleta.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +598 4486 2273
🌐   Website: http://www.restaurantmarismo.com/
📍   Address: 10 Km. 185, 20402 Arenas de José Ignacio, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay
🔗   Profiles: Instagram

🌊 Day 5: Beach and Dining

  • Exploring quiet beach towns, enjoying alfajores, and dining at José Ignacio’s most well-known restaurant.

<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> La Paloma\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (85.1 km, \ud83d\ude98 1 hr 12)\n>\n> La Huella\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>

🏖️ La Paloma

La Paloma is a quieter beach town with a beautiful seafront, offering a serene experience away from the hustle and bustle. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning coastal views make it an ideal spot for relaxation and unwinding.

img6

img7

img8

img9

img10

img11

img12

img13

img14

img15

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "STUNNING La Paloma, Uruguay", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsAfL4pSTAc", "channel": { "name": "Kara and Nate"}, "published_date": "Jan 20, 2017", "length": "11:20" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Peaceful Escape in Uruguay | Travel Vlog La Paloma", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bh8VD6yE4U", "channel": { "name": "Maddie & Ale"}, "published_date": "Mar 10, 2022", "length": "14:09" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "\u30104K\u3011WALK \ud83c\udfd6 BEACH Summer - LA PALOMA - URUGUAY", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjSl6bGJw6k", "channel": { "name": "4K WALK"}, "published_date": "1 month ago", "length": "8:01" }</div>

Tips

While in La Paloma, make sure to stop by a local store to savor the delightful Uruguayan alfajores, particularly the ones from the renowned Uruguayan brand Sierras de Minas. These traditional cookies are a must-try and a perfect treat to enjoy by the beach.

🍽️ La Huella

La Huella, located in José Ignacio, is a legendary restaurant celebrated for its delectable langoustines and perfectly grilled fish. The restaurant exudes a charming ambiance, offering a delightful blend of spaciousness and coziness. The lighting and playlist create an inviting atmosphere, making it an exceptional dining destination.

img6

img7

img8

img9

img10

img11

img12

img13

img14

img15

Tips

When dining at La Huella, be sure to indulge in their renowned langoustines, which are hailed as some of the best available. Additionally, don't miss out on the opportunity to savor the popular volcano de dulce de leche for dessert, a true delicacy that encapsulates the essence of Uruguayan culinary delights.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +598 4486 2279
🌐   Website: http://www.paradorlahuella.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Los Cisnes, 20402 Faro de José Ignacio, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay
🔗   Profiles: Instagram