Oceanfront Avant-Garde in Uruguay
Come for the art and stay for the sunsets in José Ignacio.
Uruguay may be the smallest Spanish-speaking country in South America, but it sure packs a lot in, with a seemingly endless choice of incredible beaches and lush nature just beyond the coast.
One of the most beautiful – and possibly most luxurious spots – is José Ignacio. This former fishing village is now one of the most sought-after destinations in South America thanks to the cool Laguna de Jose Ignacio, bird watching, and surfing potential. Plus, locals and travelers alike are convinced that the sunsets over the Atlantic here are more beautiful than anywhere else.
Playa Vik Jose Ignacio hotel, on the peninsula of José Ignacio, is one of the few things that will draw your eye away from the spectacular views across the South Atlantic Ocean.
Straight from the imagination of Internationally renowned Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott, the heart of the hotel is “The Sculpture”, a building with a 55-foot inclined facade to frame the incredible coastline. It also serves as an accompaniment to the amazing collection of international and contemporary Uruguayan art that's dotted throughout, including works by James Turrell and Anselm Kiefer.
The central part of the hotel includes several three-bedroom suites, and the focal building is flanked by another six “casas” with two or three bedrooms, private gardens, high ceilings, and spacious window fronts to take in the scenic surroundings.
This modern oceanfront hotel is beautiful from the inside out, as it takes sustainability seriously. Their environmentally friendly retreat operates with solar technologies, wind and geothermal energy, recycled water, and radiant heat. There are also intelligent control systems to minimize energy use and green architecture to maximize natural ventilation, heating, and cooling.
Other than the beach, the beautiful landscape, the exceptional design, and the overwhelmingly stunning sunset, guests can also take advantage of the 40-foot long wine cellar, gym, spa, and treatment room. Then there are the nearby golf courses and canoeing on the laguna if you need even more ways to pass the time.
Talk to one of our travel curators and we'll arrange your trip to this incredible corner of South America.
Bianca Klement
Like any journalist, Bianca's interest is piqued by pretty much everything, but what she likes best is writing long articles about nature, the sea, and exciting personalities. Whether trekking in Finland or kayaking with orcas, she's usually outdoors, and always on the lookout for her next adventure. As a passionate diver, her heart beats strongly for the underwater world and its protection.
All images copyright of Playa Vik José Ignacio