Sacromonte: A Retreat Among Vineyards

Uruguay, known for its endless pampas and asado culture, holds less obvious but equally impressive treasures. One of them is Sacromonte, a landscape hotel and winery tucked away among the pristine hills of the Maldonado Department. This is a place where design, nature, and fine dining come together, offering guests not just relaxation but a complete immersion in a culture of seclusion.

Architecture: A Chameleon House

Sacromonte is instantly recognizable thanks to its residential modules, or "shelters." The architects designed only four such lodges, each with a truly impressive design: their facades are completely covered with mirrored glass, which almost dissolves the buildings into the surrounding landscape. This is more than just accommodation; it is a work of art—and it is no coincidence that Time magazine included it in its list of the "100 Greatest Places in the World."

• Secluded luxury: Each “shelter” is accessed by a private road, and guests use a personal electric golf cart to get around. Despite the floor-to-ceiling glass walls, the lodges guarantee absolute privacy while offering breathtaking views.
• Comfort and nature: Inside, you will find a cozy space, complemented by a heated mini-pool on the terrace and a reading corner by the fireplace.

The hotel follows a philosophy of minimal intervention in nature: all the buildings were assembled in Montevideo and transported here to minimize their impact on the ecosystem. Drinking water comes from a local spring, underscoring the natural character and purity of this place.

Winery: Above the Clouds

The history of Sacromonte goes back to France and Peru. The founder, French-Peruvian Edmond, named his Uruguayan winery after his grandfather's business.

The Sacromonte vineyard is the highest in Uruguay, located at an elevation of more than 300 meters above sea level. The vines planted in 2014 quickly took root in unique soil rich in sand, limestone, slate, and mica schist. This combination of terroir has already brought the winery international recognition.

• Flagship: The first vintage of their main wine, Carapé (2018), received a gold medal from Decanter magazine. Today, Carapé is a fantastic blend of six varieties, including local favorites: tannat, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and marselan.

The Heart of Sacromonte: Gastronomy and Hospitality

Many guests admit that, in addition to its wine and architecture, Sacromonte wins them over from the moment they arrive with the team's sincere warmth and professionalism. The culinary experience here is no less important than the scenery, thanks to a talented young Uruguayan chef.

If you prefer privacy, you can make a light lunch in your mini-kitchen and buy wine at the reception. However, we strongly recommend visiting the local restaurant to enjoy its fine dining.

Trip planning

For those looking for complete serenity, Sacromonte offers not only overnight accommodation but also a variety of ways to visit.

Visit Options

• One-day tour (120 USD per person): Perfect if you can’t stay the night. Includes lunch, wine tasting, an hour-long walk through the local forest (monte indígena), and an electric-cart tour of the vineyard.
• Wine tastings (from 50 USD per person): There are three options available, including a premium guided tasting. They are all accompanied by snacks: tapas, local cheeses, and meat delicacies.
• Dinner/Lunch: A great way to experience Sacromonte’s gastronomic culture. Be sure to check the menu and working hours online.

Important: Advance booking is required for all services. Sacromonte sacromonte.com

Camino La Guillermina km7, Mataojo, Maldonado, Uruguay

Surroundings: Exploring Maldonado

Sacromonte is conveniently accessible: less than an hour and a half drive from Montevideo Airport and 50 minutes from Punta del Este. This makes it an ideal base for exploring eastern Uruguay:

• Culture and art: visit the picturesque town of Pueblo Edén (20 minutes), or the world-class MACA museum (one hour). Food lovers may enjoy Pueblo Garzón (one hour and 20 minutes).
• Wine and Coast: You can combine your holiday with wine tasting at the nearby Altos de la Ballena winery (35 minutes) or take a day trip to the wild coast of Rocha, including the Cabo Polonio National Park. The beaches here are especially beautiful in the off-season.

Sacromonte is more than a hotel. This is the place where you will find the perfect combination of architectural genius, gastronomic pleasure and peaceful nature.