Salto, Argentina

BETTER THAN AWESOME

Estancia La Fortuna will forever hold a special place in our hearts. The week we spent there was extremely special. The property and grounds are outstanding, over-the-top beautiful. Flocks of wild parakeets nest in the 150 foot trees that surround the home. It is simultaneously exotic, classical, and comfortable. For those who watch PBS, we felt like we were at Downton Abbey. All of the staff were attentive to our every need. Thank you Massimo for having this property available on 3rd Home. If you want a week of pure relaxation in an AMAZING setting, just go. The Estancia is just 2 or 2.5 hours driving from Buenos Aires. We had never been to Argentina, so the biggest impediment for us were the details of how to make it all happen. So, in the spirit of sharing, here is what worked for us: First, we always felt safe in Argentina. The Argentine people were more than gracious and always helpful. The food and drink were excellent (best beef in the world and several amazing restaurants). We drank the water out of the tap. Everything we worry about when traveling was not a concern in Argentina. We flew to Bueno Aires (EZE) airport. We took a taxi ($40 US) to our hotel the amazing Park Hyatt Duhau Palace (booked online AARP rate if you are over 50). Upon arrival they offered suite upgrades at much less than the online price. Next, we went to a "casa de cambio" near what is called the Travel Bank (not really a bank) on Posada street a short walking distance from hotel, rang a buzzer to get in, and safely and privately exchanged U.S. dollars for Argentina pesos. This was an important step because the official and "casa de cambio" exchange rates are very different. Official rate was 8.5 pesos for $1 and "casa de cambio" rate was nearly 13 pesos for $1. So, if you do this with dollars or euros, everything in Argentina is about 40% off. The hotel allowed us to pay our final bill in pesos so a $600 suite cost us $360. If you use a credit card, the offical rate applies. We stayed a few days in Buenos Aires and toured the beautiful european style city. Took a Taxi back to the airport (EZE) for 350 pesos to pick a up the rental car at the airport (EZE) and drove to La Fortuna. We had an international drivers' license from AAA, but it was not needed as long as we had a valid drivers' license. The roads were good and it was a relatively easy drive using Google maps on our cell phone. The town of Salto is 10 minutes from La Fortuna and it has a lively downtown. There is a european class bakery (confectioneria) there in the downtown (centro). Well, there you are, a road map on how we made La Fortuna become a reality for us and our family. Like the previous reviewer, we would give it 10 stars if we could. We hope that one day we can return.”

Beyond Perfection

Some places have a surrounding natural atmosphere: Venice, Tahiti, Porto Fino .... Estancia La Fortuna is one of them. From the entrance with more then four humdred lined up centennial mapple trees to every restored detail masterfully done of the main house the guest excells himself in the feelings of joy and serenity. The staff is at the same time conveniently handy or invisible depending of your needs. Anyone can try to describe the qualities of La Fortuna but none can describe the sensation of being there. Larissa and Ronaldo Predebon Vanzo . ”

I would give it 10 stars!

LaFortuna is spectacular. We were a group of 8 friends who spent a week at this beautiful estancia. Although it is palatial, we found it very intimate with lots of personal attention from the dedicated and gracious staff, led by Ivan, the best concierge i have ever met. We had the most delicious food served in different, beautiful locations all over the property. We rode horses, took carriage and antique car rides, played golf and spent lovely evenings where singers and dancers performed -- several times outside around a roaring fire. Truly a magical, extraordinary experience. Pat Magdol ”

La Fortuna, the best.

I don't have words to explain the explended days I past in La Fortuna. The place is all equiped and there is personal that receive you, cook for you and so on, in the best way anybody can imagine. The place is excellent. 5 stars is not enough to represent for all what you get. Robert ”

Exceptional in every way!!!!!!

We so enjoyed everything about La Fortuna. The staff was extremely warm, friendly and efficient. We were deeply moved by the opportunity to share time with the Gauchos who live on the property and immerse ourselves in the Argentine culture through the Pop Up festivities. The food and wine was wonderful and plentiful. Matias, the house concierge was magnificent and professional in every way. His long hours and tireless devotion to assisting us was truly remarkable. We thank the owner for his vision of La Fortuna, his team's hospitality and a delightfully memorable adventure. As well, thank you 3rd Home for creating this magnificent platform from which to experience the world in comfort and style. ”