La Barra to Garzon Ride

Introduction
Uruguay Uruguay
Uruguay is a small friendly country full of experiences; a country to enjoy the simple things of life (which sometimes turn out to be the greatest)! You can relax and enjoy things like good fresh food cultivated by locals, a cooking class with a worldwide famous local chef who will received you at his home, fine good wines made by passionate owners, virgin beaches, music from the heart like Tango and Candombe.

In the native traditions that existed in our lands before the arrival of the Spaniards, the horse was a symbol of power, endurance and freedom. In those cultures, the horse signified loyalty, love and the unwavering faith of the warrior spirit that understands the power achieved through true cooperation. We invite you to get to know our horses, learn how to bond with them through communication and enjoy a wonderful trip! The horse is an integral part of nature, and its passage doesn’t disturb the environment around us, enabling us to enter natural reserves, forests and beaches without disturbing the animals living in these areas.

For those who wish to indulge in luxury, we offer an upgrade to this trip with exceptional accommodations.

Accomodation

Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so you will be staying in different locations during the trip.

Description
The accommodations provided in our programs are clean, comfortable and provide a very good service. Wi-Fi is available in all accommodations.
If you are sharing your room, please let us know in advance if you prefer twin or double beds.

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Fasano Locanda Hotel
Night 2: Hotel San Vicente
Night 3 & 4: Estancia VIK
Nights 5, 6 & 7: Bahia VIK

Fasano Locanda Hotel
This beautiful hotel opened in 2016 and provides luxurious accommodations. The hotel is set in a relaxing natural surroundings, overlooking the Maldonado River. The building was designed by a renowned architect and features only 10 rooms. Each ensuite room has a modern décor with its own private balcony, air conditioning/heating and a mini-bar. Free Wi-Fi is available.

Hotel San Vicente
This boutique hotel is surrounded by beautiful nature. The rooms are modern and spacious, with big windows overlooking the lake. Each room features a TV, heating and private facilities.
Wi-Fi is available in common areas


Bahia VIK
Bahia VIK offers stylish accommodations in either bungalows or rooms located in the main building. The structures are modern and let plenty of light enter the rooms. Each room comes with air conditioned and their own bathroom with toiletries. The view over the ocean is relaxing and guest can also decide to go for a swim in the swimming pool. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.


Estancia VIK
This lovely estancia has been renovated to create a modern-chic ambiance. The property has a beautiful garden and an outdoor swimming pool. Each room is decorated with contemporary art pieces and features air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, a safe, a private bathroom and a private terrace overlooking the garden.

Accommodations are subject to changes based on availability

Room Occupancy
Triple occupancy possible.
If you attend as a single rider willing to share but we are unable to find another rider to share, the single supplement fee applies.



Meals
All breakfasts and lunches are included in this program. Dinners need to be paid extra, except for dinner on the last day, which is already included in your package.

All breakfasts are eaten at the accommodations where we spent the night.
Lunches are picnic-style and out on horseback.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to all dietary restrictions with advanced notice.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Riding


Riding Experience
We can accommodate all levels (from someone who has been on a horse but who does not necessarily feel comfortable at all paces to advanced) of riding for this trip and adjust the itinerary as need-be. Groups can be separated based on riding levels. We ride between 3-6 hours per day, which can also be adjusted.

Horses
During our rides we work very hard to maintain the same set of horses throughout the whole tour. Our intention is that riders can actually build a bond with their horse and enjoy not only the landscape and ride but also the company of their horse. Depending on the size of the group, one or more spare horses will accompany us in case a change is needed. The horses are the local Uruguayan Criollo breed and criollo cross, ideally suited to the terrain.

Tack
We use local, ‘western’ type saddle with a sheepskin. Neck reining (western ‘one-hand riding). Help will be given in adjusting to this tack, which is very suitable for long days in the saddle. 

Emergencies
In case of accident, our guides will always carry a mobile phone, which they will use to contact local assistance. All of the towns along our route count on a medical emergency service.

Weight Restrictions
If your weight is more than 95 kilos (~210lbs) there is a surcharge so we can take an extra horse - so the weight is not too demanding for one horse.

Non-Riders
Non-riders are welcome on this trip. Non-riding activities include sight-seeing, hiking, fishing, surfing, biking, trekking, canoeing and bird watching.

Itinerary



Sample Itinerary: Luxury accommodations - subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from Montevideo to your accommodation in La Barra. Start your horseback riding adventure by meeting your horse!  Today we will ride along the vineyards of Aguaverde and enjoy lunch.
Meals included: Lunch 
Accommodation at Fasano Locanda Hotel

Day 2: Sculpture Park Ride
After breakfast, ride along private trails, bordering local estancias and countryside until reaching the Sculpture Park and exhibition Centre of the Atchugarry Foundation founded by Pablo Atchugarry, a renowned Uruguayan artist. 
Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the lake. Then, continue riding to Medellin Polo Club where our horses will spend the evening. Transfer back to your accommodation. 
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at San Vicente

Day 3: Olive oil, Wine & Ride
This morning, we ride on trails that will take us along the countryside to vineyards, olive plantations and grasslands, a unique landscape. We will enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing to Estancia VIK where we will spend the night! 
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at Estancia VIK

Day 4: Garzon
The day begins with a drive to Bodega Garzon. After a visit to the winery with tasting, we will ride along hilly trails surrounded by landscapes of slopes and vineyards. We will ride towards the sleepy town of Garzon and discover this area known as the “Tuscany of Uruguay”. In 2004, the renowned Argentinean chef Francis Mallmann and the Argentinean winemaker Manuel Mas, founded the Garzon Restaurant and Hotel which brought a new “hippie chic” spirit to the area. Word began to spread about the town’s old-time charms: gauchos riding on horseback along tidy gravel streets, residents greeting one another by name, and children playing in a flower-filled central plaza. We will enjoy lunch at the local old train station.
Short transfer back to your accommodation. 
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at Estancia VIK

Day 5: Uruguayan countryside
Today begins with a ride along private trails of local estancias and into the deep Uruguayan countryside.  We will cross streams and go past various gates of neighbor estancias hoping to see deer, capybaras or American rheas. Once we get to the perfect spot, we enjoy a picnic lunch.
Our afternoon includes more riding along the countryside to Anastasio Lagoon. Short drive to your accommodation.  
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at Bahia VIK

Day 6: Water Ride
After a short drive we get back in the saddle, enjoying beautiful views over the lagoon. We will enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing our ride on the beach. We will ride up to the lakes of La Marquesa, looking for capybaras and deer.
Short drive to your accommodation.  
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at Bahia VIK

Day 7: El Caracol Ride
The day begins with a drive to the protected area of El Caracol where we will meet our horses. We will ride across the forest towards the most eastern point of the Garzon lagoon and along the lagoon shore towards a secluded spot where we will enjoy a typical Asado lunch. In the afternoon, we will ride back along the beach to the circular bridge and then into the countryside. On arrival, we will say goodbye to our horses before heading back to the hotel.
Farewell dinner at local restaurant.

Rates and Dates for La Barra to Garzon Ride

Dates Note: Best time to travel is spring and autumn. Other dates possible by request -- please inquire.

Other Info
Meeting: Aguaverde Vineyards
Airport: Punta del Este Airport
Transfer: Punta del Este or Montevideo Airport

Climate:
                                        José Ignacio area