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Cordoba
The main reason for coming to Cordoba is the small collection of rolling hills to north – the Sierras Chicas. These low lying mountains have a similar history to that of the Pampas and as such the area has numerous estancias all of which are a perfect base for horse riding, walking, mountain biking, or just relaxing in the cooler temperatures that this area is known for.
The city of Cordoba has a strong colonial past. Jesuits originally settled here in 1573, before Buenos Aires and Cordoba was the first capital of the country and is now Argentina's second most important city. Its streets and promenades feature tracks of the ancient colonial architecture mingled with modern buildings and the pedestrian promenades link the main historical buildings.
Most of the estancias are a window to the past as they still retain the original features – open fire places in the communal areas as well in your rooms. Some of them are still working farms whilst others have been converted for tourism. Both however make an ideal base in which to explore this area that seems to have been captured in time. THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Below is a list of things that can be seen and done in the area, though each lodge offers its own variety of activities.
Horse riding. You can go for a horse ride to live a unique experience, guided by a gaucho rider through the calmness of the mountain landscape. The riding gears that visitors will use are unique pieces, made by twelve different craftsmen and so in a true Gaucho tradition. If you have never ridden, you also have the chance to start or improve your equestrian practice. There are options for all ages and levels, with devoted, expert teachers who will make you feel at home. Polo. Argentina is one of the best places in the world to learn and play Polo. In the country there are top-level players and tournaments and competitions only paralleled in very few places in the world. At El Colibrí they have their our own Polo Club where we take into account all the details, including the breeding of our horses, and they offer polo for all levels and ages, giving you the chance to learn or to play.
Trekking and mountain biking. Within the area are numerous trails and woodlands which are ideal to explore either on foot or by bike
Valle de Punilla. Full day. Embedded in the Sierras Chicas, Punilla Valley has its highest peak in Cerro Uritorco and is surrounded by mysteries about ufology. Smooth lands, streams and waterfalls characterise this valley. During the tour, you will visit different villages and towns such as La Cumbre or Capilla del Monte. Jesuit Estancia Santa Catalina and Ongamira Caves. Full day. Santa Catalina is the biggest Jesuit Estancia of the system organized by this religion order in the province. Founded in 1622, it is well known for its church – an example of Colonial-baroque in Argentina- around which the rest of the buildings were erected, following the Medieval style. After the ousting of the religious order, Don Francisco Antonio Díaz purchased the estancia that still belongs to his descendants. The trip continues through hilly roads, until Ongamira, a valley formed 130 million years ago. Its reddish, sandstone hills display different shapes moulded by the rain and the winds, creating unsurpassable natural sculptures. It is an area of amazing caves, streams and viewpoints. Cerro Colorado. Full day. Heading to the northwest, you will arrive in Cerro Colorado. This region was declared Natural Reserve given its biodiversity; here the lush vegetation contrasts with red-relief shapes. The aboriginal peoples from Cordoba left innumerable pictography on the hillsides, which can still be appreciated. The place is also well known because of one of its distinguished inhabitants: Argentine folklore musician Atahualpa Yupanqui. Golf. There are three 18 hole courses in the area; Scochinga Club. Hilly surroundings with its great natural forestation, the number of birds, the streams, the lakes, and the springs that go through it make Ascochinga Golf Club’s 18-hole course one of the most picturesque courses in the country. Cordoba golf club. Situated in the city of Villa Allende, it offers excellent conditions to play in a traditional English-style golf course that is rated among the top ones in the country. Its proximity to the mountain landscape gives it a special beauty and topography, with several slopes that make players try varied putts from several striking surfaces. La Cumbre golf club. Situated in Punilla Valley, on the mountain chain of Sierras Chicas, its average height is 1200 meters and has an extension of 6001 yards with 18 holes divided into four par 5, eight par 4 and six par 3.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Cordoba
From 170 unspoiled hectares of farm land, El Colibri is an authentic example of the Argentinean campo where the wild forest has been transformed into a natural park and the rest of the grounds are looked after like a private garden.
Cordoba
EstanciaDos Lunas is the ideal place to enjoy nature and admire the hilly landscape. You can go horse-riding in its 3000 hectares or go for a relaxing walk along its garden. EstanciaDos Lunas offers a characteristic top-quality service
Cordoba
The family provides short and long breaks for those who want to experience first-hand the majesty and rural tradition of Argentina. Visitors range from swimming pool loungers to seasoned outbackers
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