Week end in Colonia del Sacramento - Uruguay

Last week end my wife invited me for a journey in Colonia del sacramento, just on the other side of the Rio de la plata when in Buenos Aires. Best to go there is by express boat from Buquebus whom terminal in Buenos Aires is located in Puerto Madero's harbour. After no more then 45mn to an hour of cruise you will reach this small colonial town which was registered in 1995 by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

Colonia was discovered and settled by the Portuguese in 1680 before to be disputed by the Spanish. During more then a century it kept changing hands through terrible battles and treaties between the Portuguese and the Spanish. It even belonged to Brazil twice as was the North of uruguay. 

When in Colonia, there is not much to do but spending your time walking through the preserved old town ( better known as "el casco historico" ). We found it so beautiful that we could hardly stop taking pictures during those 2 days.

The visit of Colonia is proposed now by many tour operators when in BA. And many "portenos" are spending their weekend there during the spring and summer time. Go there during the week if at all possible. Be aware that many of Colonia's old town restaurants are tourist traps and will serve very average quality and charge a premium price. 

Here is our recommendation depending on your mood and the time of the day so that you can be sure of what lands in your plate and actually discover new flavors and tastes : 

1. "El drugstore" for lunch to enjoy an excellent "Chivito". Uruguay national sandwich. Together with a Pilsen beer. Uruguay national sandwich. Budget 15USD per head. 
2. "Lentas maravillas" in the afternoon. Colonia's best kept secret. Santa rita 61. Excellent tea collection, home made pastries, great garden and delicious argentinian owner maggie. 10 USD.
3. "La bodeguita" at night where you will find excellent home made and fresh pasta. Very good pizza as well as delicious "postres". More importantly it offers a sea side terrace. Perfect for sunset. 15USD.

Colonia is absolutely worth a day or 2 during your trip to Uruguay or Argentina. Leave your blackberries and iPhone home, and just accept to switch off your mind. 

Hasta pronto mi querida Colonia !