Estancia La Sofia
The Pampas, Argentina
At a Glance
Authentic colonial-style estancia offering a peaceful break and homely hospitality just 100km from the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires
Wander around the beautiful grounds of the property, surrounded by countryside and farmland, soaking up the atmosphere and listening to the chirping of the birds in the trees...pure bliss
Go horse-riding, watch a polo match (even get involved if you like) and learn about the traditional Gaucho way of life, their customs and traditions
Whilst there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy eating the delicious food on offer, why not get more hands on and help the gauchos tend to the fire pit, learn about the different cuts of meat and prepare some of the dishes themselves?
What’s more relaxing than chilling out by the pool with a good book and a glass of wine…how about a revitalising massage to ensure you’re ready for the next stage of the trip!
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Best time to Visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
The Pampas is a year round destination, spring and autumn (October/November and April/May) being the most pleasant. It can be hot and humid in the peak summer months of January and February. Winter is usually pretty mild.
Call us on 020 3993 9308 to start planning your holiday to Estancia La Sofia or take a look at our itineraries to Argentina
Description
La Sofia is a colonial-style estancia surrounded by countryside in the heart of the Pampas. Founded and run by the owners, it offers guests a relaxed home from home experience and an opportunity to learn about the traditional Gaucho lifestyle.
Estancia La Sofia's ranch is just 100km from Buenos Aires, making it an ideal place to relax for a few days in-between exploring the rest of the country. The property has just six guestrooms which are traditional in style and décor, with a homely and comfortable feel. This also ensures a warm welcome and personalised service. In the living room area, you’ll find a big open fire and plenty of seating, the perfect spot to cosy up in the evening and unwind.
Meals (which are all included) tend to be a communal affair with everyone eating together around a big table, whilst sharing experiences and stories from their travels. There is a well-stocked wine cellar from where guests are able to pick out a delicious bottle to accompany their meal (at an additional cost). Food is very much at the heart and soul of the estancia, with a hands-on approach for those who want to get involved. Guests are encouraged to help prepare a traditional asado (barbecue), what kind of wood to use, the different cuts of meat and how to roast them. You can also learn how to stuff and fill Argentina’s most tasty and popular snack – the empanada.
Horses are an integral part of Argentine culture and the owners are keen to emphasize this with horses being at the centre of life around the property. Daily riding lessons and excursions around the estancia’s ground are included, adapted towards the guest’s level of riding experience. Polo lessons (taught by the owner, a former international player) are also offered as an additional extra. Guests less comfortable on a horse will still enjoy the beautiful surroundings, taking a stroll or a bike ride around the grounds, watching a polo game unfold and learning about the traditional Gaucho lifestyle. There is also a lovely swimming pool where you can simply relax with a good book (glass of wine optional) whilst enjoying the tranquil atmosphere surrounded by natural beauty and birds chirping in the trees. Massages can be arranged upon request as well.
Accommodation
Estancia Santa Maria runs as a small boutique style hotel on a traditional working estancia. Refurbished to create a comfortable and homely environment, there are five tastefully decorated guest rooms, all traditionally furnished, with private bathrooms.
Childcare
Families and children over 10 years old are warmly welcomed at the estancia, and children will love the riding, the barbecue lunches, watching the harvesting and silo stacking or participating in the feeding and branding of the cattle.
Facilities
The estancia specialises in homemade, rustic food. Delicious informal lunches are served up inside or al fresco, and in the evenings guests can enjoy the Argentine asado (barbecue).
The estancia has wireless internet and a TV and DVD room for guest use. Transfers, guest programmes and excursions can all be arranged with a minimum of fuss.
Activities
Horse riding is a must when coming to Argentina and day trips including a barbecue lunch or shorter rides are a wonderful way to spend the day at Santa Maria. For non-riders, take in the scenery with an old fashioned carriage ride. Watching the harvesting and silo stacking or participating in the feeding or branding of the cattle give guests the opportunity to get a real feel for life in the Argentine countryside.
Take walks through the pampas and enjoy the flora and fauna, especially the wonderful bird life. Bird enthusiasts will be spoilt with the many kinds that migrate to the estancia such as the nandu (ostrich), partridges, wild ducks and rare finches.
Experiences
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Asado Experience at Fogón with Wine Pairing
From the creators of the hugely popular ‘Argentine Experience’ & the chefs of Buenos Aires' Uco Restaurant and Butterfly in Bariloche, Fogón offers a new way to experience the flavours and traditions of the typical Argentine 'asado'.
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Day Trip to the Tigre Delta
If you have time to spare in Buenos Aires, don’t miss out on a tour of the Tigre Delta. Take the day to explore the beautiful river network by boat and soak up Tigre’s laid-back atmosphere as you explore by catamaran.
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Private Wine Tasting in Buenos Aires
Love Malbec and want to sample more? Or perhaps you're keen to taste other varietals such as Torrontes or Bonarda? Whatever your palate, our acclaimed sommelier will guide you around Argentina's best wines with a tailor-made tasting in Palermo.
Holiday Ideas
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Ride Argentina
Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Argentine Patagonia, Las Pampas
from £4500 pp inc flights & transfers for 12 nights
- Delve into the history and traditions of Argentina on horseback and learn how these graceful animals have been an important part of rural Argentine life for centuries
- Explore Buenos Aires by bicycle, visiting many of the city’s classiest areas
- Escape the crowds in the often-overlooked province of Cordoba and ride alongside gauchos or even try your hand at polo
Location & directions
The Pampas, Argentina
Estancia La Sofia is set in the small town of San Andres de Giles in the middle of the countryside yet a mere 1 hour drive from Buenos Aires.
How to get there
13-hour 40-minute international flight to Buenos Aires, followed by a 1-hour drive to Estancia La Sofia.
- 100% financial protection
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- Firsthand knowledge
- Renowned service
- Award-winning tour operator