San Antonio de Areco

San Antonio de Areco, which lies approximately 70 miles north west of Buenos Aires in the heart of the Pampas, was founded in 1730 around the pretty church of San Antonio de Padua. It is a popular getaway from the capital, either for a quick day trip or weekend escape. But the town is best known for its gaucho and criollo traditions and horses are very much part of life here. If you've come to embrace the cowboy lifestyle, the best places to stay in San Antonio de Areco may well be on a ranch outside town, but for experiencing this City of National Historic Interest you'll want a more central spot.

San Antonio sits on the Areco river and is probably most notable as the homeland of the fictional hero Don Legundo Sombra, who is the central character of the eponymous novel by Ricardo Guiraldes, one of Argentina’s great wrtiters and poets. The book is a celebration of the Gaucho lifestyle and this theme very much encapsulates the feel of the city. There is even a Museo Gauchesco Ricardo Guiraldes.

The city is quite compact, and consequently it's easy to get around either on foot or by bicycle - there are plenty of colonial architectural gems to be admired here. For the more energetic, this is also a great place for horse riding, walking, cycling, rowing or carriage touring.

In November there is the Dia de la Tradicion - a celebration of all things ‘Gaucho’ and the highlight of the year in San Antonio de Areco. If you plan to visit for this, the best places to stay in San Antonio de Areco will be very busy, so get organised and book well ahead.

For luxury and seclusion

• La Bamba de Areco is a very smart ranch property situated in a wonderfully secluded position. The rooms are colonial in style - all teak furniture and parquet flooring with french doors leading onto quiet terraces. The regional cuisine is served al fresco. Horse riding is a key attraction here.

Travel Information

• The best airport for travelers to get to San Antonio de Areco is Buenos Aires, then a 113 km journey
• The best time to visit the area is from November to March, where the average temperature ranges from 24-28 degrees celsius. This hot season coincides with the wet season in the area, so remember to pack some waterproofs!
• If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

Still not sure?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in San Antonio de Areco,

• Expand your search to inlcude our Buenos Aires recommendations,

• Or contact a friendly guru for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in San Antonio de Areco