Uruguay remains an undervisited country. Yet this small South American nation has much to offer, beginning with its paradisiacal beaches and seaside resorts. But the Oriental Republic of Uruguay also boasts vast stretches of wilderness and charming cities that remain little-known, such as Punta del Este, Colonia del Sacramento or Montevideo. Fancy sipping a maté in the sunshine? Here are 4 reasons to travel to Uruguay this summer!

1- Explore an Undervisited South American Country

Kilometres of Ecotone

What strikes you first are the endless, featureless landscapes stretching to the horizon. This surprising pampa offers an authentic panorama, still untouched by human encroachment! Considered a "vast ecotone"—a transition zone between two ecosystems—the Uruguayan countryside forms the bridge between temperate grasslands and the country's subtropical forests.

Idyllic Beaches

Uruguay boasts nearly 600 kilometres of golden coastlines and beaches! Rarely crowded, they offer postcard-perfect landscapes, far from the masses and the drawbacks of overtourism. To the west, along the Atlantic coast, the shoreline promises wonderful seaside holidays.

2 - Visit 3 Overlooked Cities

Montevideo: Uruguay's Capital

Located in the south of the country, facing Buenos Aires, Montevideo is Uruguay's capital. This fortified city built during the 18th century captivates with its narrow streets and historic monuments. Its finest buildings include the former Palacio Salvo (now converted into residences) and the metropolitan cathedral from the colonial era. Also renowned for its beaches, Montevideo is an ideal summer destination.

Colonia del Sacramento: A Colonial Town Listed by UNESCO

Founded in 1680, Colonia del Sacramento is the oldest city in the country. Colonised in turn by the Portuguese and Spanish, it finally gained independence in 1828! From this era, the city preserves a magnificent historic quarter (inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list), distinctly divided into two architectural styles. On one side, you can admire Portuguese quarters with disorganised streets. On the other, orderly Spanish grid-pattern streets.

Punta del Este: The Coast Where You Can See La Mano or Los Dedos

The coastal town of Punta del Este is the country's most famous beach resort. Nicknamed the "Saint-Tropez of the Americas," it marks the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Rio de la Plata river. Surfers come to challenge the waves, while wealthy families enjoy a relaxing day on the beach… or aboard their yachts.

On Brava beach, you can admire La Mano or Los Dedos. Designed in 1982 by Chilean artist Mario Irarrazabal, this artwork serves as a warning against the violent winds that regularly batter the coast. Appreciated or not, the sculpture is an unusual and unmissable attraction.

3 – Explore Uruguay's Most Beautiful National Parks and Atlantic Coastal Beaches

Santa Teresa National Park

Santa Teresa National Park is a forested zone renowned for its splendid blanket of greenery. It is home to a magnificent glasshouse built in 1939 to cultivate tropical plants. Among its other treasures? The laguna de Peña, which allows visitors to observe numerous animal species and ponds adorned with water lilies and papyrus. Accessible on foot from Punta del Diablo, the park preserves a splendid colonial fortress, considered one of the finest in the country.

Cabo Polonio National Park

Cabo Polonio is a coastal village in Rocha, a department located in the south-east of the country. Both a seaside resort and a natural national park, it is a highly popular site with travellers and locals alike, drawn by its caves. This small fishing village is also home to Uruguay's second-largest sea lion colony!

4 – Taste South American Flavours for a Sensory Journey

Uruguayan gastronomy is renowned for its flavours… and indulgence! Curious about local dishes? Here's a typical menu:

• An asado dish: this cooking technique is used to prepare food by brushing it with fat or sauce, then exposing it to fire or heat. More than just a simple barbecue, asado is integral to national identity and a true "social act," meant to bring people together. Proof being that no one prepares a grill just to eat alone!

• Bizcochos with dulce de leche: these small cakes filled with sweetened condensed milk are pure delight. There are dozens of different varieties, including some savoury recipes.

• Maté: rather than ordering the traditional coffee, try this traditional South American beverage inherited from the Guaraní Amerindian culture. Uruguayans love its slightly smoky taste…