An early morning boat ride on the Buquebus and an hour or so later, I was pulling into the port of Colonia del Sacramento. My adventure started in Buenos Aires but led me to this sleepy town a few hours north of Montevideo.
The town was founded in 1680. It is a former Portuguese settlement with Portuguese architecture and streets. Some of the original houses remain but are now restaurants and Airbnb.
Once leaving the boat, I exited to the left, walking towards a wooden building that I would later find to be an art store. The locals come here to sell their art daily to the people who take the trip to their country. Across the street is the Colonia train station, a relic from the days of its past.
When you have walked and made it to the wall, you are at the old Portuguese settlement. Enter through Puerta De La Cudidadela and witness a moment in history. The original streets remain in some parts of the city, even though it's a bit more touristy. Your first stop should be Calle D-Los Suspiros. The buildings haven't changed much on the outsides, just the use on the insides.
The next stop is the Faro De Colonia Del Sacramento, an old lighthouse, now a museum that guided boats away from the shores along the river. Head over to the Plaza 25 De Agosto to see local sell arts and sit and enjoy their Mate. (tea) The city is very walkable and boasts treasures like the Iglesia Martriz and other historical sites.
For food, there are little cafes spread out around town that specialize in its own little thing, but I ate at the Charco Bistro. Of course, I had the local favorite, Chivito. It is the national sandwich of Uruguay. It's bread, beefsteak, mozzarella, ham, tomatoes, mayonnaise, bacon, eggs, and olives. The sandwich proved too much for me but I enjoyed it nonetheless. After having a chivito, you can ask for a room as the Charco is also a hotel.
I spent the afternoon between a mix of two local street fairs and then spent time at the beach. This is a cool place to relax and if you are ever in Argentina I suggest you take advantage of the opportunity.
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