Punta del Este is the much loved and sought after vacation town nestled on a beautiful peninsula located in the extreme southeast corner of Uruguay. Only one hour by car from Montevideo , the capital of Uruguay , people come from all over South America and Europe to enjoy Punta del Este's natural beauty and its safe environment.
Punta del Este extends like a hand towards the ocean with the Atlantic Ocean to its west and Rio de la Plata to the east. Rio de la Plata is the widest river in the world and separates Argentina from Uruguay .
It is 120 miles wide at the point where it joins the Atlantic in Punta del Este. The peninsula offers wide, beautiful, white sand beaches on both sides, but the waters on the river side, “ La Mansa ”, are calm.
On the Atlantic side, “ La Brava ”, there is an exciting surf. People traditionally enjoy the waves in the morning and the river side in the later afternoon because of its beautiful sunsets. The peninsula has areas of forest through which has been created a beautiful residential community with the wide beaches undulating on either side.
Punta del Este is technically a part of the province of Maldonado and began its history as a fishing village. It was not until the 1940's that it developed itself as an exclusive vacation resort of international fame.
Today it boasts wonderful hotels ranging from quaint, colonial hotels with Latin flavor and charm, to world class establishments, offering an array of exciting shows and casinos. Its beautiful harbor, on the Mansa side, attracts yachts from all over the world.
Punta del Este is a first world village offering modern conveniences and shopping opportunities. There are over 80 restaurants with delicious seafood and famous Uruguayan beef. Punta del Este also has its own airport.
Many fascinating day trips are easily accessible from Punta del Este to visit Uruguay 's quiet beaches and beautiful mountains. You can hike, fish, surf, windsurf, take boat trips to fish or visit large colonies of sea lions, play golf, and horseback ride all in Punta del Este or within easy reach either by car or by boat.
Its high season runs from December to March, but the excellent weather actually extends from Mid-November to the beginning of May. The climate is air maritime.
The air smells of salt spray and pines.
The language of Uruguay is Spanish and the culture is extremely friendly. Uruguayans by tradition are very warm and helpful. The country of Uruguay is stable, safe and the most highly educated of all of South America .
Aside from its natural beauty and tranquility, people are drawn to Punta del Este for its vibrant nightlife. There are many clubs and discos to choose from which stay open until the morning.
Uruguay is very proud of Punta del Este and considers it its jewel.
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