Marriott International invites to explore the southern coast of Uruguay

From the extensive southwest coast where the singular colonial architecture, to the remote and extensive virgin beaches of the east, the Uruguayan coast is a little-known destination waiting to be discovered. Unlike the Spanish and Portuguese explorers who were the first to set sail from this beautiful area, the visitor can explore it by car - safe roads and short distances between cities make the region an ideal destination to drive.

Colonia del Sacramento
Approximately one hour by ferry from Buenos Aires, you will find the winding cobbled streets of Colonia del Sacramento. Recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Colonia del Sacramento offers a glimpse into the rich history of the city that shows the Portuguese and Spanish colonial settlements.
Among the ruins of the convent of San Francisco stands the impeccable lighthouse of Colonia del Sacramento that was used to guide the boats along the Río de la Plata. The thunderous waters of the river, caused by the gusts of Southeast winds, caused many shipwrecks so the need for a lighthouse became essential. Currently, visitors can climb its spiral staircase and enjoy a panoramic view of the peaceful landscape of Cologne.

Lighthouse of Colonia del Sacramento
Cologne also has a flourishing culinary scene. From romantic dinners in an old restaurant wagon in the Railway Museum to a quiet meal in a cobbled inner courtyard, travelers can experience the best of classic Uruguayan food such as chivito and roast. For an authentic regional cuisine accompanied by amazing views of the Río de la Plata, dinner at Cava Real located at the Sheraton Colonia Golf & Spa Resort. There, travelers traveling on the highway can rest at night and prepare to head to the capital of Uruguay, Montevideo.

Montevideo and the southeast region.
An eclectic coastal city, it is home to about half the population of the country. From the leafy parks that border the Río de la Plata, to the architectural treasures of the Old City, Montevideo offers a wide range of landscapes and activities that deserve a stop.
During the day, visitors can tour the largest flea market in Latin America at the Tristan Narvaja Fair or take a cool bike ride along the Rambla, a 13.7-mile boardwalk that links retro stores (vintage) Old Town with the bright lights of the eastern suburbs. Afterwards, indulge yourself with the traditional roasts in the fashionable places.
In the heart of Montevideo, conveniently located between an important shopping complex and La Rambla, travelers will find the Aloft Montevideo Hotel. The space combines urban design, technology, and the fashionable social scene to create the perfect rest stop before continuing along the southern coast of Uruguay.
Just seven blocks from La Rambla and near Ciudad Vieja, you can also find the Four Points by Sheraton Montevideo. The hotel offers comfort, comfort and an incredible view of the bay from the indoor pool located on the tenth floor.
From Montevideo, head towards the strip of the Uruguayan coast bathed in the sun, widely known as the main playground of South America for millionaires, models and gourmets. But there is more to the coastal city than its golden sand beaches. Punta del Este is a short drive away from a strip of boho-chic fishing villages filled with art galleries that will open your eyes and restaurants with fresh seafood.
Then, end your road trip driving 30 minutes east to discover one of the most chic hiding places in Uruguay. Although it is a short distance from the glamor of Punta del Este, this town of José Ignacio, embodies the most informal and bohemian side of Uruguay. There, travelers will travel dirt roads bordered by street signs, as well as picturesque and eclectic boutiques.