Ahead of Christmas and New Year, Monaco Life‘s Niki Borisova has travelled out to José Ignacio, a quaint former fishing village near Uruguay’s uber-cool Punta del Este. This is a place where wild natural beauty and breathtaking views meld with exclusive parties and a lively atmosphere; it is a locale that is gaining a reputation as the new Saint Tropez of South America, and even has a Monaco connection. 

Join Monaco Life as we travel to José Ignacio, a resort town or balneario in the Maldonado department of southeastern Uruguay. This once sleepy enclave is building a new reputation among international visitors, who are captivated by its seamless blend of rustic charm and upscale sophistication, making it the ultimate hotspot for discerning travellers.

Where to stay

Let’s start with the Vik establishments, created by Alex and Carrie Vik, prominent Monaco residents celebrated for their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to art and design. The couple has developed a collection of luxury retreats in and around José Ignacio that blend contemporary architecture, curated art collections and unparalleled hospitality.

Set on 4,000 acres of rolling countryside, Estancia Vik is a luxurious Spanish colonial-style retreat with individually designed suites adorned with contemporary Uruguayan art. Guests at Estancia Vik can indulge in a variety of activities, from horseback riding to canoeing and even polo lessons on the estate’s private field. The property also features El Asador, a traditional Uruguayan asado restaurant where guests can savour authentic local barbecue in a rustic setting.

In a special collaboration, Estancia Vik will host Chef Mauro Colagreco of the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Mirazur for a series of exclusive dining experiences from 1st to 5th January 2025. This event, part of the Mirazur Beyond Borders initiative, will showcase a fusion of French and Uruguayan flavours, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and Colagreco’s innovative culinary philosophy. For more information, click here.

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Located on Playa Mansa, Bahia Vik offers beachfront bungalows and suites with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The property’s contemporary design, combined with its integration into the natural landscape, provides a serene and luxurious experience. Guests can also enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets in the region from here. Adding to its allure is the lobby’s unique astrology-inspired ceiling, an artistic masterpiece that captures the beauty of the cosmos and creates a magical ambience.

Just a short distance from Bahia Vik, Playa Vik overlooks the serene Playa Mansa and is known for its bold, contemporary design and impressive art collection. Its infinity pool, which juts out dramatically toward the ocean, creates the illusion of merging with the horizon—offering a view that’s hard to forget. The on-site restaurant adds to the experience, serving fresh, local dishes in a relaxed setting perfect for soaking in the beautiful sunsets.

For those seeking a boutique experience, Casa Suaya provides a tranquil retreat with elegantly designed rooms and private terraces. Its proximity to the beach and personalised service make it a favoured choice among travellers.

Located in La Barra, just outside José Ignacio, Hotel Fasano Las Piedras is part of Brazil’s most renowned luxury hotel chain. Set on a sprawling estate surrounded by rolling hills, the hotel blends modern comfort with the beauty of its natural surroundings, offering a spa, golf course and a private beach club. Fasano is also a go-to spot for its legendary New Year’s Eve parties, often featuring well-known DJs and drawing an international crowd for a night of celebration under the stars.

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Savouring Uruguay

Parador La Huella, located on Playa Brava, is a José Ignacio icon and the ultimate place to see and be seen. Known for its relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, it has become a magnet for the well-heeled jet set. Monaco Life recommends going for lunch and trying the famous grilled squid and dulce de leche volcano dessert. Its reputation has earned it a spot on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants.

Located on Playa Mansa, La Susana, also owned by the Viks, is a beachfront gem perfect for a leisurely lunch or sunset cocktails. It’s also a hotspot for parties, drawing in a lively crowd during the season. This year, the much-anticipated Summer Solstice Party on 21st December promises to kick off the holidays in style.

For dinner, Marismo is the place to go. Tucked away in a pine forest, it offers a magical setting with tables placed on the sand and surrounded by open fires. The combination of the starry sky, the glow of the flames and rustic fire-cooked dishes makes for an unforgettable experience.

For wine lovers, Solera Vinos y Tapas is a cosy wine bar and restaurant that has become a beloved spot in José Ignacio. Known for its carefully curated selection of regional wines and delicious tapas-style dishes, it’s the ideal spot for an intimate evening. The charm of Solera goes beyond its offerings—its owner, Sole, is almost always on hand, greeting guests with warmth and ensuring everyone feels right at home.

Specialising in Nikkei cuisine, Osaka expertly blends Japanese and Peruvian flavours in a chic, modern setting. Known for its innovative approach to fresh, local seafood, the restaurant’s sushi and ceviche are standout options. Monaco Life recommends trying their signature Tiradito de Pejerrey.

Uruguay wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the legendary Francis Mallmann, whose Restaurante Garzón has been a cornerstone of the country’s culinary scene since 2003. Located in the tranquil village of Garzón, 14 miles from José Ignacio, the restaurant features Mallmann’s signature open-fire cooking. With boutique accommodations on-site, it offers guests the perfect way to immerse themselves in the serene Uruguayan countryside.

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