ABROAD & BEYOND

Awe-Inspiring Argentina

Editor-at-large, Ignacio Maza, reveals his insider tips on where to stay.

Elevate your itinerary by staying at these hotels in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Northwest, and the country’s remote Patagonia region. At these properties, expect a warm welcome, a sense of place, and authentic Argentinian hospitality. Here are my top recommendations:

Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires

Ideally situated on Avenida Alvear, Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires is a chic and tranquil haven in Buenos Aires’ fashionable and exclusive Recoleta district.  The property is two hotels in one: the classic elegance of historic Palacio Duhau, and the more modern building on Calle Posadas. Between the two wings is a manicured garden and terraces – an oasis in the bustling city. Don’t miss the hotel’s two restaurants, guest lounges, and the unique Vinoteca — with a great selection of fine Argentinian wines. Visit the hotel’s underground art gallery and the wellness space, complete with an indoor lap pool.

Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta

Located in Buenos Aires’ most elegant neighborhood, Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta embodies French charm and “l’art de vivre” in a stylish high-rise hotel. The property’s 175 generously sized guestrooms and suites feature contemporary design and every creature comfort. For an upgraded stay, book a luxury suite with access to the Executive Lounge on the 18^th floor, a great value. Guests can enjoy the Sofitel’s wellness space, taste delicious Argentinian cuisine in the hotel’s restaurant, and indulge at La Pâtisserie — with finest artisanal pastries.

Legado Mítico Salta

This charming boutique hotel is housed in a former private residence and walking distance to Plaza 9 de Julio, in Salta’s historic district. The eleven spacious guestrooms are individually decorated to reflect the personalities of notable Salteños from the past such as writers and artists, and feature balconies or private patios. The hotel’s public areas include stylish living rooms that blend authentic and modern design. This is the perfect ‘base camp’ from which to explore Salta, Argentina’s gateway to the northwest.

House of Jasmines

In the outskirts of the city of Salta, House of Jasmines is a peaceful and elegant oasis within a vast 250-acre countryside estate dating back to the 18^th century. This family-owned resort is a member of Relais & Chateaux and offers guestrooms and suites in the main building or nearby villas with private entrances. During their stay, guests enjoy a wellness center, swimming pool, and fine dining at La Table restaurant. For a taste of adventure, House of Jasmines can arrange horseback riding, biking and walks on the property.

Grace Cafayate Hotel

Surrounded by the vineyards of the scenic Calchaquíes Valleys, Grace Cafayate is a luxury, full-service hotel within a large residential property. The hotel features two restaurants, a wine bar, spa, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Enjoy a game of golf at one of Argentina’s top courses, located within the estate. Stay in the main building, or at an adjacent residential villa with one or two levels. Don’t miss a drink on the resort’s terrace, with magnificent views of the Andes.

Estancia Colomé

Hidden in a spectacular valley at nine thousand feet above sea level, Estancia Colomé is a quiet, authentic retreat offering nine comfortable and spacious guestrooms surrounded by lavender gardens. This intimate resort is set within the Colomé vineyard, founded in 1831 and the oldest continuously working winery in Argentina. During your stay, enjoy gourmet dining, wine tasting with resident experts, and a wide range of adventures on and off property. For an unforgettable experience, visit the James Turrell Museum, steps from the resort, featuring the artist’s unique creations of sculptural light and space.

EOLO – Patagonia’s Spirit

Ideally situated halfway between the town of El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier is EOLO, the small Relais & Chateaux luxury resort within an enormous 10,000-acre ranch. The property’s seventeen elegant and comfortable guestrooms have fantastic views of the mountains and valleys surrounding the estate. EOLO is known for the quality of its fine dining, serving locally sourced produce. By day, hike, horseback ride, mountain bike, enjoy 4X4 drives or relax at the spa. In the evening, marvel at the glorious night skies. The resort is seasonal, open mid-September to early May.

Explora El Chaltén

Award-winning Explora is South America’s premier luxury lodge brand. The newest addition to the Explora collection is the resort at El Chaltén, Argentina’s trekking capital, which opened in December 2021. This ultra-modern lodge is set within a private nature reserve and features twenty generously sized guestrooms and suites with stunning vistas of the Marconi Glacier and snowcapped mountains. Explora’s all-inclusive formula offers thirty half & full-day excursions at various levels, menus by Argentina’s celebrated Don Julio restaurant, and an ideal setting from which to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia. Explora El Chaltén is open from October to April.

Main image: House of Jasmines, Salta