Estancia Los Potreros
8 days - Cordoba to Cordoba
Estancia Los Potreros is set in a beautiful reserve at the top of the Cordoba hills in the centre of Argentina, nestling between the pampas and the Andes. Known for its breathtaking views and healthy climate, the higher lands of the Cordoba Hills are covered in long straw like grass called 'paja brava' The estancia dates from 1574 when breeding mules for the silver mines in Peru was the principal activity. Today it is an idyllic retreat for horsemen and nature lovers. This organic working farm, breeds Aberdeen-Angus cattle and Paso Peruano horses. It has been in the same Anglo Argentina family for four generations, the owners have a passion for conservation and the preservation of the environment. They cherish the farms 'spring water' and use wind and solar energy.The estancia is a place for people who appreciate fine horses and love to ride. It offers guests exceptionally high standards of accommodation, food, and guiding, and some of the best horses in South America. Los Potreros allows you to experience wildlife, scenery and culture at close quarters while not abandoning the creature comforts provided by good accommodation, great food, the best tack and fabulous horses.
The ranch's forte for horse lovers is its Peruvian Paso horses, which are used to round up cattle on the rocky hillsides, giving lie to the popular opinion that Pasos can only amble and are incapable of galloping sure-footedly.
Every day the farm offers new challenges, guests can chose to be involved in the daily activities, take a polo lesson or are free to chose from a great number rides returning to base at night or taking an overnight excursion. There is a vast area to explore across the Sierras and the actual itinerary will be arranged according to the visitor's wishes. There are horses for every riding ability and the rides are normally split to cater for those of different riding abilities
- Day 1 (D)
- On arrival in Cordoba will be met and transferred to Estancia Los Potreros. After a chance to freshen up it is time to meet with your horse and the gauchos to take a short introductory ride.
- Day 2 to Day 7 (B,L,D)
- There is no set itinerary for the home stay rides. Take a half or full day ride on the estate following streams through valleys to the 'top of the world' with stunning views of the punilla valley and the Sierras Grandes beyond.
Spend the morning helping the gauchos work cattle. The amount and type of cattle work will depend on the season: rounding up, herding, branding, etc. lunch can be back at the estancia or may have to be a picnic in the hills or by a stream.
Enjoy a full day's ride to explore Candongas C1600 church. Return to Los Potreros past the 'Estancita' and the Dominican church. Alternatively take a half day ride to the Dominican church and visit the local single teacher school.Spend the day visiting the Canada de los Condores and swim under the waterfall. Take a full day ride and picnic by a clear stream. Sip the ice cool white torrontes wine while the steaks are sizzling on the fire and a gaucho is trying to fish for a trout out of the river. Ride on horseback towards the quebrachitos past the bellstone rock. From a high point see the spectacular view of Cordoba City in the distance and the pampas beyond.
Ride to the far end of the estancia Chiviquin. Enjoy an 'asado' or a picnic lunch. There is a chance to climb to the water divide and have breath-taking views of the Sierras Grandes, Carlos Paz and the lush valley of Punilla.Take a two-day ride and enjoy an overnight stay at Chiche and Menta's farm or camp at Plomo's Estancia under the Pan de Azucar. Take a polo lesson. Understand some of the rules that will make for greater enjoyment of viewing the game if not making you a high goal player!
- Day 8 (B)
- After a final ride transfer back to Cordoba.
- June, July and August - Running through these months, we have a '7 nights for the price of 6' special offer. The Argentine winter months are fabulous riding months as they have dry mild days with crisp nights warmed up by wood burning stoves.
- Cost per Person:
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Ride Only: £1,275
June, July, August £1090
- Includes: Transfers from Cordoba, accommodation and meals as indicated and all riding.
- All Inclusive: From £2,085 depending on season. Please note a night's hotel accommodation may be required in Buenos Aires.
- Includes: Flights, taxes, transfers, accommodation and meals as indicated and all riding.
- Single Supplement: None if prepared to share. 30% of ride only cost if unwilling to share. Please note a supplement of £62 may be levied if there are no other passengers to share the transfers between the International and Domestic airports in Buenos Aires.
- Departure Dates: Daily throughout the year except May when the Estancia is closed.
- The Accommodation: Accommodation is in traditional adobe estancia buildings, with all rooms having a private bathroom. The estancia generates its own electricity and supports responsible tourism. Therefore the use of electrical items such as hairdryers may be limited.
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Food & Drink: The food is all exceptional. The menu is a mixture of traditional Argentinean and International cuisine, with cooked breakfasts and 2 course lunch and dinners. All locally made drinks are included.
- Laundry: Is included but it is a cold wash only and there is no ironing.
- Children: Children are welcome providing they are experienced riders and accompanied by an experienced adult rider. There is a 20% discount off the ride only price for children under 16.
- Non-Riders: Non-riders are welcome. There is plenty of walking to do on the estancia, along with a rich variety of birdlife. Other activities can be arranged such as mountain biking, paragliding, golf and visits to the Jesuit churches and Cordoba. Additional payments for these activities should be made locally.