wonderful holidays latin america estancia los potreros : argentina

overview

Estancia Los Potreros is a 6,000 working cattle farm and has remained in the same Anglo-Argentine family for four generations. The Estancia is secluded, on top of the “Sierras Chicas” the oldest mountain range in South America, nestled between the pampas and the Andes in the heart of the beautiful region of Cordoba in the centre of Argentina .

The Estancia dates from 1679 when breeding mules for the silver mines in Peru was the principal activity. It is steeped in family history and locally there is much evidence of the pioneering work of the Jesuits who first organised farming in the area before they were forced to leave in 1796.

The Begg family now invite you to share their home and lifestyle, providing a unique and unforgettable holiday that will provide you with a true insight into rural life in Argentina.

The estancia prides itself on setting high standards in accommodation and hospitality, taking care of guests with unrivalled personal attention to detail. It provides a unique experience for those who would like to combine the pleasures of estancia life with fabulous horse-riding.

Birdwatchers are never disappointed; there are lots of activities, from picnics and wine tasting, to swimming and stargazing. Whether your passion be outstanding horses, beautiful scenery, walking, photography, wild flowers, soaking up the local culture or simply enjoying good company in a truly unique setting, Estancia Los Potreros has something for everyone.

riding with gauchos

Riding is usually centred round the estancia life with occasional excursions. Longer expeditions can also be arranged. If on a trail ride you could expect to be in the saddle between five to six hours a day. Nights away from Los Potreros are spent camping or in local dwellings allowing visitors to experience another way of life.

The estancia is known for its exceptional horses. All bred on the estate, they are well with some crossbreeds. “The unique Peruano, unlike any other horse, can take you at a canter speed whilst still walking, unbelievable!”

The tack is English with sheepskins over British army saddles; the riding is western and very relaxed. There is a vast area to explore across the Sierras. Beginners are welcomed.

flora and fauna

The Cordoba hills are in the centre of Argentina and are famous for their healthy climate and wonderful scenery. The land rises sharply from the plains to plateaux at the top of the sierra offering breathtaking views of the pampas.

The higher land is bare of trees and covered in long straw like grass called ‘paja brava’, which the animals eat in the winter months. There are a number of tree varieties; acacias, cocos and molles are the most common, with wild flowers covering the hills from early spring to autumn. There is a huge variety of bird species from vultures and eagles down to the most brightly coloured humming birds. Condors today have returned to the hills while partridge and dove are plentiful. Foxes and hares can often be seen, though the puma, wild boar and small deer are more elusive.

programmes

There is a host of riding activities throughout the year incorporating local events; other programmes such as polo and trail rides can be tailored to the guest’s wishes.

Those less interested in riding, or simply wanting a break, will enjoy walking in the hills and exploring the streams, watching the exotic bird life or just lying by the pool.

Unspoilt and only one hour away is the University City of Cordoba the second largest city in Argentina, once a principal staging post between Lima (Peru) and Buenos Aires.

Popular local sites to explore include the national JesuitMuseum and Estancia Sta Catalina (1662) as well as the folklore festival and rodeo at Jesus Maria. Cattles sales and annual branding on the farm are events well worth experiencing.