Calle de los Suspiros, Plaza Mayor, remnants of the walls and low houses reveal the Portuguese and Spanish layers at close range. The guide explains why Colonia became so contested on the Río de la Plata. As afternoon turns to evening, there is ample free time for a walk by the water and dinner in the old town.

The morning is free for one last walk while the streets are still quiet. After checkout, travel continues by ferry towards Buenos Aires or by road deeper into Uruguay.

The journey from Colonia del Sacramento to Carmelo is by private transfer. On arrival, the transfer continues to the accommodation.

The road towards Carmelo passes through the agricultural landscape of western Uruguay. After arrival, a walk along Arroyo de las Vacas and the old swing bridge works well, or simply a few quiet hours at the accommodation.

The producers explain soil, climate and the work throughout the year before the tasting focuses on Tannat and other varieties. Lunch at a vineyard or rural restaurant makes a natural centrepiece. A driver is included and the day is deliberately unhurried, because personal conversation is often what sets Carmelo apart from larger wine regions.

From Carmelo the journey continues to the next part of Uruguay. The road goes on towards Colonia, Montevideo or a ferry connection depending on the route. With a later departure there is time for a quiet morning at the accommodation before the next stage begins.

The journey from Carmelo and the wine region to Montevideo is by private transfer. On arrival, the transfer continues to the accommodation.

After arrival, a private transfer takes you to the hotel. Once the day’s journey is over, a first walk along the rambla, through Ciudad Vieja or in Pocitos works well, depending on where the hotel is located.

Plaza Matriz, Teatro Solís and Plaza Independencia give an outline of Montevideo’s historical development. From there, the route continues through later neighbourhoods towards the coast.

The port and market districts reflect trade and migration, while the long waterfront promenade shows how closely the water is tied to everyday life in Montevideo. The itinerary allows time for an unhurried lunch and walks between visits, rather than turning the day into a string of short photo stops.

The journey continues from Montevideo. If departure is later, there is time for a museum, a café or another walk by the water. A transfer then takes you towards Canelones, Colonia, the Atlantic coast or the international airport.

The journey from Montevideo to Punta del Este and José Ignacio is by private transfer. On arrival, the transfer continues to the accommodation.

The approach to Punta del Este follows the coast. After arrival, the harbour, peninsula and one of the beaches are all close at hand.

Views over the bay give way to the town, harbour and more open beaches around La Barra. Art galleries, small shops and coastal architecture can be included according to interest. The day has plenty of room, and there is time for an unhurried lunch.

The lighthouse, beaches and restaurants are concentrated around a small headland. In summer, meals often require booking well in advance, while the rest of the year is quieter and some places close. Alternatively, the entire day can remain free at the hotel and by the sea.

Punta del Este is left behind as the journey continues along the coast. A final morning at the beach is possible when departure is later. A transfer then takes you towards the Rocha coast, Montevideo or the airport depending on the next part of the itinerary.

The journey from Punta del Este and José Ignacio to La Paloma and Laguna de Rocha is by private transfer. On arrival, the transfer continues to the accommodation.

The journey continues along the Rocha coast to La Paloma. The lighthouse and shoreline are well suited to a first walk before evening. The town is small enough to understand quickly, and its beaches vary in their orientation and exposure to the Atlantic.

The shallow water, sandbar towards the sea and surrounding wetlands create habitats for a wide range of birds. When conditions allow, a small boat may be used on the lagoon. The guide also explains the fishing tradition and the families who have long made a living here, so the landscape is understood as both a natural environment and a place of work.

La Pedrera, another beach, cycling, surfing or a long coastal walk are all possible. During whale season, land-based watching can be added when sightings are being reported in the area.

There is no need to book an activity simply to fill the time. On the Rocha coast, it is sensible to leave part of the day open for wind, light and whatever feels most appealing on the spot.

From La Paloma the journey continues along the Atlantic coast. The route can go on towards Cabo Polonio and farther east, or back towards Punta del Este and Montevideo.

The journey from La Paloma and Laguna de Rocha to Cabo Polonio is by private transfer. On arrival, the transfer continues to the accommodation.

At the national park entrance, the road vehicle is left behind and the journey continues in an authorised off-road vehicle across the dunes. When the sea comes into view, Cabo Polonio appears clustered around the lighthouse and its two beaches.

From the lighthouse area, the rocks and small offshore islands where sea lions and fur seals often gather are visible. Wildlife is observed from a distance and protection zones are respected. A longer walk can continue along the beach or into the dunes when wind and sand conditions are suitable. The afternoon can be devoted to the sea, a long lunch and the quiet that is one of the best reasons to stay overnight.

Road transport then continues west towards Montevideo. Departure is planned around the off-road vehicle schedule and with plenty of time for onward travel.

From Montevideo, the journey home continues towards Scandinavia. Flight timing is chosen with the road journey from the Rocha coast in mind.

Arrival in Scandinavia after the overnight flight.