JOSE IGNACIO HOLIDAYS

The small fishing village of Jose Ignacio is the new place to go for a beach holiday in Uruguay. Punta del Este has grown quickly and commercialism has taken over, but thankfully the sleepy little town of Jose Ignacio has preserved its small town atmosphere. The village is located on a natural peninsula that juts out into the ocean with two sweeping beaches either side.
Playa Mansa is the beach on the western side of the peninsula and is a favourite as it has calmer waters. Taking a walk down this beach in the early evening you are rewarded with some spectacular sunsets. This beach is also the place where local fisherman bring in their catch and watching them, in the early morning or late afternoon is the height of action in the village. Playa Mansa is a long stretch of beach that curves slightly, which means you nearly always guaranteed to have part of the beach to yourself.

Brava beach is on the eastern side of the village and is better known for the heavier swell, ideal for surfing. The differences between the two sides of this peninsula give you with two distinct views of life and adventure in Jose Ignacio. Despite its size there are still a number of restaurants each with an abundance of fresh seafood.

This hidden gem of a village is most famous for its lighthouse, which shows just how cut off from the outer world you are here and as drawn the slogan that has made these beaches very popular: “Only the wind runs here”.