A world of contrasts

A little more than an hour from Buenos Aires in the heart of Argentina’s tranquil Pampas countryside, lies La Bamba de Areco, one of the oldest estancias in the country. Recently renovated as a boutique hotel with attention paid to every detail, a celebration of the Gaucho tradition.

La Bamba de Areco is nestled in the midst of a magnificent park off the El Camino Real (the road to the north).  Here, you can watch a Polo match, view a horse whisperer work his magic through superlative horsemanship, ride horses, take a carriage ride, lounge by the pool, go mountain biking, learn about the life of the Gaucho, go fly-fishing, and have a massage.   Enjoy exquisite Argentinian cuisine, including mate (special tea)tasting and a true asado (Argentine barbeque) in the vine-covered outdoor dining room.   Indulge in the breathtaking beauty of the Argentinian night sky with a state-of-the-art telescope.   

The colonial style ensemble is approached via an avenue of ancient plane trees off of a dirt road.  La Bamba de Areco houses rooms and suites spread throughout three buildings, with several reception rooms, dining room, library, bar, billiards room, massage room and a boutique where local artwork and leather and silver goods are sold.  The 11 air-conditioned guest rooms and suites are furnished with antique colonial furniture, dark wooden floors, local textiles, and South American art that adds a smart, modern look.  Each has been named after a famous polo pony.  All have views of the stunning countryside and no phones or televisions are there to disturb the romantic atmosphere.

La Bamba de Areco also serves as the base for the international polo team that bears its name and has two of the best fields in Argentina.  Guests may watch the team play here during the polo season. 

Locally sourced regional food is a major feature of a stay at La Bamba de Areco.  Homemade pastry, croissants and pains au chocolat, and homemade jams highlight breakfast.  Lunch comprises empanadas, traditional asados with beef, lamb or pork, pancakes with dulce de leche and wines from Mendoza.  A more formal, three course dinner with chicken or filet mignon and homemade sorbets ends the day.  Meals may be enjoyed with other guests or in private.

Here you have the heritage of gaucho life and sophistication of polo in one spectacular place.