Piriápolis

Piriápolis, Uruguay's first beach resort town, sits between the Atlantic coast and rolling hills 100 kilometers east of Montevideo. You'll find the grand Hotel Argentino dominating the waterfront, while the white San Antonio Chapel watches over the town from its hilltop perch. Take a chairlift ride to see the coastline from above, walk through the marble halls of the Castillo de Piria, or swim at any of seven beaches that stretch along 25 kilometers of shore.

Getting to Piriápolis

Direct buses run hourly from Montevideo's Tres Cruces terminal, taking about two hours to reach Piriápolis. If you're driving from Montevideo, follow Route Interbalnearia through two toll points (U$2 each, local currency only) and turn south at kilometer 56. From Punta del Este, the drive takes 30 minutes along the coastal road.

Beaches Along the Coast

The main beach runs along Rambla de los Argentinos, the waterfront promenade in the town center. East of the center, Playa Hermosa has wide stretches of golden sand and waters protected from strong waves. At Playa Verde, a freshwater stream flows into the ocean, creating a green tint in the water. Local fishermen sell their daily catch directly from their boats at Playa Grande, while Punta Colorada's consistent waves make it a good spot for surfing.

Hills and Hiking

You can reach San Antonio Hill by taking the chairlift (U$5 return) from the marina or driving up the winding road. The summit has a small café and viewing platforms facing the ocean. Ten kilometers outside town, Cerro Pan de Azúcar rises 423 meters above sea level. The main trail starts at the Reserva de Fauna y Flora, where you might spot native birds and capybaras. The hike takes about 2 hours round trip, with signs marking the path.

Historical Buildings

The Hotel Argentino stands on the beachfront, its 1930s facade stretching for an entire block. The hotel's saltwater pools and thermal spa remain open to the public (day pass U$15). At Castillo de Piria, Francisco Piria's former mansion, you can take guided tours (U$8) through rooms filled with original furniture and artwork. The garden contains marble fountains and statues imported from Europe in the early 1900s.

Food and Restaurants

When the tide is right, restaurants serve rice with fresh mussels harvested from local waters, accompanied by Uruguayan white wine. Around the marina, seafood restaurants like El Pescador and Marina Sur serve the day's catch. On the main street, cafes put tables under canvas awnings where you can try brick-oven pizzas or chivitos - Uruguay's traditional beef sandwiches loaded with eggs, cheese, and vegetables.

Weather and Seasons

Summer temperatures average 28°C (82°F) during the day and 17°C (63°F) at night. Winter days stay mild at around 15°C (59°F). The town's population of 9,000 increases significantly from December to March when Uruguayan and Argentine visitors arrive. Between April and November, you'll find empty beaches and hiking trails, making it easier to interact with local residents.