Piriapolis
Piriápolis is a small town with Mediterranean-style charm. Set around a curving bay on Uruguay’s southern coastline, framed by rolling hills and fronted by golden sand, this destination has immense natural beauty. Established in 1890 by Italian Uruguayan impresario Francisco Piriá, this was once Uruguay’s premier summer resort. That crown has since passed to Punta del Este. Visit today’s Piriápolis, which exudes an unhurried, welcoming allure.
Piriápolis Beach is the town’s focal point, a place to enjoy the summer sun and practice watersports. Play beach soccer and volleyball or watch fashion shows. Stroll along the broad esplanade, Rambla de los Argentinos, an ideal location for walking, running and simply viewing the sunset.
Visit the town’s historic landmarks. The resplendent Hotel Argentino looms over the esplanade. Peek inside time-honored salons that reflect the elegance of a bygone era. Nearby Hotel Colón gives the impression of a medieval European castle. See displays of antique carriages and locomotives, among other train artifacts, at the Railway Museum of Piriápolis.
A 10-minute drive from the town center is the Italian-style Castle of Piriá, the former home of Piriápolis’ founding father. Explore well-preserved rooms to discover exhibits of 19th-century art, furniture and weaponry.
In town, walk to Piriápolis Port, where food stands serve fresh fish plates and seafood empanadas (stuffed pastries). Ride the chairlift to Cerro San Antonio, a low-lying hill with magnificent views.
Hike to the summit of the 1,388-foot- (423-meter-) tall Cerro Pan de Azúcar for panoramas of a sweeping coastline and vast plains. Crowning the hill is a tall cross. Climb up to its arms via a staircase. Nearby, you can spot native animals, such as capybara, deer, foxes and jaguars, plus exotic plant species at the Pan de Azúcar Wildlife Reserve.
Fly to Montevideo’s Carrasco International Airport and catch a bus to reach Piriápolis. Rent a car and visit nearby beaches and coastal villages. Travel north to Playa Hermosa and Bella Vista or south to Punta Colorada and Punta Negra.