The Coolest Cultural Hotels in Uruguay

The incredible building of this five-star hotel looks like a modern-day castle, with huge windows that light up the inside and a massive garden with its own lake outside. Be delighted by the beautiful reception room, lit up at night by a hanging chandelier, and expect no less from the bright rooms and suites. In a peaceful and tranquil environment, you will find a restaurant, gym, game room, and outdoor and indoor swimming pools. The garden estate is so extensive that you wouldn’t even notice you are in the city, but note that Punta Shopping and Mansa Beach are a few minutes’ walk away.

Colonia del Sacramento’s historic quarter is a Unesco World Heritage Site, because of the well-preserved urban landscape with Portuguese and Spanish influences from the Colonial period. La Reserve is a great choice to explore this unique cultural center while enjoying the most relaxing of vacations. The hotel offers spa facilities and tailored spa treatments, plus a wellness center, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a sun terrace, and a micro-cinema. The surroundings are also ideal for cycling and hiking.

Le Bibló is located in Carrasco, the most affluent neighborhood in Montevideo; delightful to walk around because of the massive houses, gardens, and squares that abound. Le Bibló’s building itself used to be a mansion, which the owners turned into a boutique hotel and now host with care and warmth. It is the perfect place for a quiet and peaceful getaway. Get lost in the beautiful library or relax at the swimming pool.

The exceptional architecture of this property makes it one of the most iconic buildings in Montevideo. Its construction took nine years, and it was finally opened in 1921 as a hotel and casino. Sofitel recently restored it and converted it into the most luxurious hotel in Montevideo, refurbishing its rooms and suites to offer the highest levels of comfort and privacy. Situated in an incomparable location, right next to the coastline promenade in the neighborhood of Carrasco, guests can enjoy splendid views of the beach in the nicest part of the city. Visit the award-winning spa and gym facilities, as well as its outdoor and indoor swimming pools. Take chances at the striking casino and relax with a drink and live music at the bar.

This countryside hotel has everything you need for a quiet getaway far away from the chaos of the city. Learn about Uruguay’s traditional countryside culture while enjoying the privileges of a five-star hotel. The quaint rooms have fireplaces and old-fashioned décor. Try the homemade food featuring typical grandma recipes like countryside bread. The location is perfect for hiking, making use of bicycles, and horseback riding (for all levels of expertise). It’s also ideal for families with kids, as there are plenty of activities and its staff is very engaged.

This part of the country is famous for its thermal water that flows naturally from under the earth. There are several health benefits from bathing and drinking this water, which has generated a lot of tourism and inspired wellness hotels. Arapey Oasis is the best hotel in this area, boasting two large thermal swimming pools, hot tubs and excellent spa facilities. Make use of the bicycles to explore the area, then book a massage or relax in the hammocks. There is a gym, poolside sun loungers, and extensive gardens.

Stay at Las Cumbres to experience its privileged location: as its name “the hills” indicates, the hotel is situated on top of the highest hill allowing for a magnificent view of the forests, city, and sea far below. The property is owned by the architect who constructed it — a well-traveled man who brings back souvenirs from all over the world to decorate the hotel with. The decorations are almost collections of interesting pieces of art, intricate objects, and photographs. The rooms are decorated in a very old-fashioned way, which also shows the style of the architect. The food is sublime and so are the spa facilities.

Different cabins are suspended on Garzón Lake providing a unique, intimate experience of being at one with nature. The lake is a protected natural area, and being able to enjoy it by living on it is an unforgettable experience. The capacity is limited to 12 rooms, and services are customized to the needs of each traveler. Enjoy ecological food from the restaurant that is also on the water, standing on stilts rather than floating. There are various eco-tourism activities offered, such as bird watching, trekking, water sports, and excursions to the wonderful beaches nearby.