Also known as the "Switzerland of South America," the clocks tick slower in laid-back Uruguay. Thanks to a great infrastructure, beautiful nature, magnificent colonial buildings and great wine, the small country between Argentina and Brazil makes for a top destination in 2023. Here are some of the most beautiful addresses in Uruguay!

Where to stay

Hotel Fasano Punta del Este

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The first "Fasano" hotel outside Brazil stands out not only for its award-winning architecture: The stunning rooms in midcentury style, three fabulous restaurants, a dreamlike spa and a wide range of sports activities also leave nothing to be desired. 

Hotel Fasano Punta del Este
Cno. C. Egusquiza y Paso del Barranco
Tel.:  +598 4267 0000
Web: fasano.com.br
Price: doubles from approx. €365

Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco and Spa

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French luxury meets Uruguayan cuisine and the serenity typical of Montevideo in the immediate vicinity of Carrasco Beach. In the restaurant "1921" chef Maximiliano Matsumoto is cooking up a storm, in the spa you can enjoy treatments.

Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco and Spa
Rambla República de México 6451
Tel.:  +598 2604 6060
Web: all.accor.com
Price: doubles from approx. €229

Posada Ayana

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Possibly the coolest hotel in Uruguay is located in a small fishing village called José Ignacio. Lovingly designed with natural materials, the stylish rooms invite you to relax. The villa for up to six people offers extra space and maximum comfort. During the day you can chill by the pool or enjoy a massage, and in the evening you can join for dinner or movie night. The highlight is the free-standing "Skyspace" by renowned American artist James Turrell, which offers a magical sensory experience. Festivals, live music and a range of great restaurants await in the village. 

Posada Ayana
Del Marinero
Tel.:  +598 91 929 262
Web: posada-ayana.com
Price: doubles from about €370

Estancia Vik

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Uniquely secluded and surrounded by nature as far as the eye can reach, this charming hideaway for art and design lovers is located in the fishing village of José Ignacio. The twelve elegant suites score with privacy and breathtaking artworks, four restaurants offer local cuisine at its best. 

Estancia Vik
Cam. Eugenio Saiz Martinez Km 8
Tel.:  +598 94 605 212
Web: estanciavik.com
Price: Suite from approx. €266

Where to eat

Bodega Garzón

Francis Mallmann © provided

In a quiet environment, here you can immerse yourself in the world of Uruguayan wines. Thanks to its ideal conditions, the estate produces a range of award-winning wines, from red to white to rosé. Under the direction of celebrity chef Francis Mallmann, you can enjoy seasonal cuisine of the highest order on the fantastic terrace of the restaurant.

Bodega Garzón
Km. 175, 20400 Garzón, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay
Tel: +598 4224 1759 
Web: bodegagarzon.com

Lo de Tere

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The family-run restaurant has been serving the best that Uruguay has to offer for 30 years. Fresh fish, quality meats and seasonal vegetables, all locally sourced, make up the aromatic dishes. The rustic ambience is inviting, and the creations on the plates resemble international haute cuisine of the highest level. 

Lo de Tere
Rambla General Jose Artigas casi, 20100 Punta del Este, Maldonado, Uruguay
Tel.: +598 4244 0492
Web: lodetere.com

Fasano Punta del Este

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Located on one of the highest points in the country, it's not just the views of the expansive nature that make a visit worthwhile: The stylish restaurant serves Italian cuisine that is second to none. Fresh from the sea and hearty beef are the focus here; the desserts are also worth indulging.

Web:  fasano.com.br