Uruguay: Coast + Vineyards

DAY 1 - Carmelo
We will meet up at the Buquebus terminal (the company that specializes in maritime transport between Argentina and Uruguay), in Colonia del Sacramento for our transfer to the exclusive Four Seasons Resort, in Carmelo. In the afternoon, we will take an easy ride around the resort's golf course to calibrate the equipment.

DAY 2 - Carmelo and Tannat Wine Country
Today we will cycle the back roads of the tannat grape wine country. Uruguay is this grape's stronghold - which yields a very intense ruby wine, marked by firm, mature and lasting tannins. We will continue to ride to the ancient ruins of the Jesuit mission “Calera delas Huerfanas”, named after an orphans' school run by a religious order from Buenos Aires. On the way back,  we will stop at Finca Narbona, a national heritage monument by a chapel and a picturesque winery. Here we will taste the famous cheese made with crude cow's milk and sample these tannat wines -  leaving the best for dinner - delicious homemade pasta, the specialty of the house.

DAY 3 - Colonia del Sacramento
Today we will head toward Colonia, stopping for a visit to Los Cerros de San Juan vineyards, founded in 1854 and one of the first wineries in Uruguay. Here we will taste these flavorful wines at their old general store. Continuing alongside River Plate, we will ride past the old Plaza de Toros, a building clearly influenced by the Moorish architecture. This arena was the venue of some official bullfights starting January 9th, 1910, until they were banned by a decree two years later. Next stop is the historical city of Colonia del Sacramento where we will meet with a specialist who will fill us in on the history of this picturesque city. Lunch will be at La Florida restaurant. After lunch, we will transfer you to Punta del Este (approximately 3 hours) where we will stay at the cozy Hotel l'Auberge.

DAY 4 - Punta del Este
Today we head to Hotel Las Cumbres, set in the middle of a nature reserve that has breathtaking panoramic views. From here we will ride to La Pataia, a dulce de leche and cheese factory, where you will get to know a little about their work. Then its a climb up to Casa Pueblo, the workshop of the world-famous Uruguayan artist Carlos Paez Vilaró, who designed the studio himself. His place is a masterpiece - without a single straight line. His unique style represents a breaking away from traditional architectural concepts. From here you have the choice to return by bike or car. Tonight ask your host about dining options - as there are excellent restaurants, such as La Bourgogne, Andrés, and others.

DAY 5 - Punta del Este - José Ignácio
Today we will cycle around Punta, visiting the city's most important places of interest, and then enjoy a seaside lunch at the beautiful Yacht Club. In the afternoon, we will transfer to José Ignácio, a town with very peculiar simple-chic style. Tonight you will stay at the delightful Posada del Faro.

DAY 6 - José Ignácio - El Garzón
Start the day with a ride from José Ignácio to El Garzón village, founded in 1892 by Mr. Fermin de León. Here, the famous Argentine chef Francis Mallman established the wonderful Hotel Restaurante El Garzón, serving regional dishes and local seafood. We will have lunch here and enjoy its delicious cuisine. Again, the choice is yours whether you'd prefer to cycle back to the hotel or return via car.

DAY 7
After breakfast, say adios to Uruguay as we transfer you to the Punta del Este Airport.