Tradition with Purpose: Supporting Our Schools Through Local Craft

Introducing our new community project at Estancia Los Potreros

At Los Potreros, we’re celebrating the incredible talents of our local community - with a collection of handcrafted goods that we have for sale in our small shop onsite. From rawhide belts sewn by our gaucho, Pachi, to hand-painted pottery, silk neckscarves similiar to those worn by the gauchos, and of course the classic Los Potreros polo shirts, each piece is a little slice of life on the estancia.

This isn’t just about beautiful craftsmanship - it’s about giving back to the place we all call home. Every penny raised goes straight to supporting two of our local schools - which are where many of our employees have attended. Whether it’s helping with school supplies, repairs, or new learning opportunities, your purchase makes a real difference. This is just the beginning of our community outreach programme, and we couldn’t be more proud to kick things off by supporting the next generation.

So if you're visiting the estancia or simply want to take home something meaningful, come see what’s on offer. Each item in the shop is rooted in tradition, and made to carry the spirit of Los Potreros…

The Los Pots Kitchen

Welcome to the Heart of Estancia Los Potreros — Where Food Brings Us Together

At Estancia Los Potreros, we believe the best meals are made with seasonal ingredients, grown close to home, and shared with good company. Our new seasonal menu is a celebration of just that: fresh, local produce cooked simply and served generously.

There’s something timeless about gathering around a table, where strangers become friends over delicious, honest food.

At the core of our kitchen is the Argentine asado, now prepared in our establo, a rustic space where fire, smoke, and tradition meet. Here, guests come together at our six-metre-long table to share dishes hot off the grill, crafted with care and bursting with flavour.

Meet our head chef

We recently sat down with Chef Claudio to talk about life behind the scenes in the Los Pots Kitchen. His passion for local ingredients and simple, soulful cooking is the heartbeat of the estancia.

A Menu for Everyone

Whether you're a meat-lover, vegetarian, or have specific dietary needs, our kitchen welcomes you. From flame-roasted vegetables and vibrant vegetarian mains to gluten-free desserts, everyone has a place at our table.

Have dietary requirements or questions? Just drop us a message - we’re always happy to help.

Cook, Read & Be Inspired

Our Los Pots Kitchen Blog is full of seasonal recipes, cooking tips, and stories straight from our kitchen. Whether you're mastering empanadas or want to try a rich ossobuco, there’s something for every home cook.
Explore recipes and stories from the Los Pots Kitchen

From Our Soil to Your Plate

We cook with what’s growing now. Vegetables picked from nearby fields, meat raised on our land, and herbs that flourish just steps from the kitchen window. This is our way of honouring the land - cooking sustainably, reducing waste, and celebrating flavour at its peak.

A Journey Through Wildlife

Nestled within the stunning landscapes of Los Potreros, the land is alive with nature. This video offers an immersive look at the region’s vibrant wildlife, birdlife, and natural beauty. The landscape at Los Potreros beckons you to lace up your boots, wander thoughtfully, and discover the farm from a different point of you. Every rustling bird, blooming flower, and scuttling insect is part of a living story, our story.

Our trails that are used for riding are wonderful and varied for walking. We invite you to join us on a guided walk with one of the estancia staff, or head out on your own or perhaps with one of our dogs!

The farm spans over 6,000 acres and features many different landscapes. On one side of the farm gently rolling hills and grassland plays host to many land based animals. Head out this way to spot burrowing owls, living in harmony with the vizcacha - a close relative to the chinchilla. If you head out in the opposite direction, before long you will find yourself surrounded by a more rugged landscape, with plunging valleys and hidden streams. Here you will find an abundance of wild flowers, there has even been a tortoise spotted in this area!

The estancia is blessed with plentiful and varied birdlife all year. If you look to the skies, you are likely to see birds of prey. Andean Condors are commonly seen in the area, with a vast wingspan and long black fingers at the end of their wings. Look to the rocks to see a crested or chamango caracara. Black-chested buzzard eagles, hawks and vultures are also regular residents to Los Pots. Beyond these great birds, songbirds are plentiful - with everything from fork-tailed flycatchers, to parakeets, swifts and the strikingly white Monjita. 

Wildflowers throughout the year are spectacular, and as you wander along watch out for the smell of wild mint and herbs.

Although horseback riding is in the centre of what we do here at Estancia Los Potreros. We believe that there is much to do beyond that. To slow down, and take the trails on foot allows for a completely new experience. Suddenly you notice vibrant flowers nestled within the long grass, and can watch butterflies dance over hidden pools of water. Conservation plays a large part within the ethos of Los Pots, so to be able to watch the wildlife flourish on the farm - captured so beautifully by this video - brings immense joy. 

Stories From Estancia Los Potreros

A celebration of life on the estancia, this long-awaited book is filled with beloved recipes, stunning photography, and heartfelt stories from the hills of Córdoba.

Whether you've ridden with us across the hills, shared unforgettable meals around our table, or simply dreamt of experiencing the magic of estancia life, this book brings a little piece of Argentina into your home.

Filled with stories, recipes, photographs, and memories from life at the estancia, it captures the traditions, landscapes, and hospitality that make our corner of the world so special. Whether you're reminiscing about a past visit or discovering Estancia Los Potreros for the very first time, we hope these pages will inspire you and transport you to the heart of the Argentine countryside.

Even more importantly, every purchase makes a real difference. 100% of the profits from the book will go directly towards our community outreach projects, helping us renovate two local schools that are at the heart of our rural community. Your support will fund essential improvements, including repairing and replacing roofs, repainting classrooms, and creating brighter, safer learning environments for local children. These projects will have a lasting impact on both the students and their teachers, ensuring they have spaces where they can learn and thrive.

By purchasing a copy, you're not only taking home a beautiful keepsake of Argentina - you are also helping to support the families and communities that have been part of estancia life for generations.

Each book is USD $25.00, with shipping to the UK and Europe included in the price. If you're located further afield, we'd be delighted to advise you on delivery costs.

As this is a limited print run, we only have a small number of books available. If you would like to reserve your copy or would like more information, please email Georgia at marketing@estancialospotreros.com. We'd love to hear from you and help bring a little taste of Estancia Los Potreros to your bookshelf while supporting an important cause in our local community.

Thank you for helping us preserve our traditions and invest in the future of our community.

The Peruvian Paso: The Horse That Glides

Meet the Rolls-Royce of Horses: The Peruvian Paso

Nestled among the rolling hills of Córdoba, Argentina, our days at Estancia Los Potreros are deeply intertwined with the horses that carry us. And few are more treasured than the elegant, spirited, and smooth-as-silk Peruvian Paso.

For those who’ve visited us before, you’ll know exactly what we mean. The Peruvian Paso isn’t just a horse, it’s an experience.

What Makes the Peruvian Paso So Special?

The secret lies in their gait - the paso llano - a natural, four-beat lateral movement unique to this breed. It’s hard to describe until you’ve felt it: a soft, gliding motion that makes even long days in the saddle feel effortless. There’s no bounce, no jarring; just a rhythmic flow that carries both horse and rider in perfect harmony across even the roughest terrain.

But the Peruvian Paso isn’t all smooth movement and pretty looks. These horses are known for their brío a word that doesn’t translate neatly, but captures a blend of fiery spirit and gentle willingness. They’re alert, intelligent, and proud, yet completely in tune with their rider. Whether you’re an experienced horseperson or a total beginner, they meet you with grace and generosity.

A Voice from the Hills

To truly share what makes this breed so special to us, we recently created a video celebrating the Peruvian Paso. Narrated by Kevin Begg, whose family has been riding and raising horses here for generations, the video offers a heartfelt look into the history, character, and enduring importance of the breed at our estancia.

Meet the Herd

Our Pasos aren’t just working horses - they’re family. Each one has a personality all their own, and in the weeks to come, we’ll be introducing you to a few of our favorites. From the wise old souls who’ve seen it all, to the younger ones just coming into their own, each horse carries a piece of the estancia's heart.

Ride With Us

If you're curious to experience the magic of the Peruvian Paso firsthand, we’d love to welcome you. Whether you're dreaming of a horseback adventure through the sierras, or simply want to feel the unique rhythm of the paso llano beneath you, there's no better place to start than here.

At Estancia Los Potreros in the Sierras Chicas of Córdoba, Argentina, the Peruvian Paso horses are a highlight of the riding experience.

A selection of the Estancia Los Potreros, homebred Peruvian Pasos.

Timeless Traditions and New Adventures

Timeless Traditions, New Adventures at Estancia Los Potreros

Discover the magic of Estancia Los Potreros, a historic working cattle ranch nestled among the breathtaking hills of Cordoba, Argentina. Surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Sierras Chicas, this family-run estancia offers a rare opportunity to experience the true rhythm of rural Argentina, where generations-old traditions blend naturally with new adventures and unforgettable experiences.

Life at Los Potreros is centred around the land, the horses and the people who call this special place home. From the moment you arrive, you become part of the estancia family, welcomed with the warmth and hospitality that Argentina is famous for. Each day brings a new opportunity to explore, reconnect with nature and discover the true spirit of Argentine estancia life.

For those searching for an authentic horse riding holiday in Argentina, Estancia Los Potreros offers an unforgettable adventure through some of the country's most spectacular landscapes. Whether you are an experienced rider or stepping into the saddle for the very first time, our rides are designed to be enjoyed at your own pace. Explore open valleys, follow historic trails through the hills, cross streams, discover hidden waterfalls and experience the freedom of riding through the Argentine countryside on horseback.

Guests can also join our gauchos caring for the cattle, helping move the herd across the estancia just as generations have done before. This unique experience provides a fascinating insight into the skills, traditions and connection between horse, rider and land that define Argentine gaucho culture.

Beyond riding, estancia life is about slowing down and appreciating the simple pleasures of the countryside. Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients, share stories around the dining table, taste locally produced wines and relax while taking in the spectacular views across the Córdoba sierras. Our farm-to-table experiences celebrate the flavours of Argentina, from traditional asados cooked over the fire to seasonal produce grown close to home.

Nature lovers will also find plenty to discover at Los Potreros. The estancia is home to an incredible diversity of birdlife, including colourful Monk Parakeets and the impressive Andean Condor. Exploring the landscape offers constant opportunities to connect with the wildlife and natural beauty of this unique region.

As a historic working cattle ranch, Estancia Los Potreros offers something increasingly rare: an authentic connection to Argentina beyond the typical tourist experience. Here, traditions are preserved, hospitality is personal and every guest has the chance to experience the real spirit of estancia living.

Come ride, relax and reconnect with nature in one of Argentina’s most beautiful landscapes. Experience the freedom of horseback riding, the warmth of Argentine hospitality and the unforgettable adventure of life at Estancia Los Potreros.

Friendship and Traditions at Estancia Los Potreros

At estancia los potreros, every story begins with friendship…

IIn the heart of Argentina’s Sierras Chicas, surrounded by rolling hills, open landscapes and endless skies, there is a simple belief that guides everything we do at Estancia Los Potreros: nothing truly meaningful happens without friendship.

For generations, this land has been shaped by connection - between people and nature, between tradition and modern life, and between travellers who arrive as guests and leave as friends. We believe that the most memorable experiences are not just created by the places we visit, but by the people we share them with.

At Estancia Los Potreros, our guests are invited to step into a world where authentic Argentine culture, rural traditions and warm hospitality come together. Located in the Sierras Chicas of Córdoba, our estancia offers a unique opportunity to experience the true spirit of Argentina: from horseback rides across the countryside to long lunches shared around the table, every moment is designed to create connection.

In this video, we invite you to discover the friendships that bring our estancia to life. Guests from across the world come together here - not only to explore the beauty of the Argentine landscape, but to slow down, share stories and become part of our community.

Our connection to the land is deeply rooted in the traditions of the gauchos who have shaped rural Argentina for centuries. Through horseback riding, traditional asados, and everyday life on the farm, guests experience a way of living that celebrates respect for nature, local heritage and the rhythms of the countryside.

Whether you are riding through the Pampas beneath a wide-open sky, learning about Argentine horsemanship, enjoying a homemade meal prepared with local ingredients, or simply relaxing with a glass of wine as the sun sets over the hills, it is the shared moments that make the experience unforgettable.

Friendship is at the heart of everything we do. It connects our team with our guests, our guests with each other, and all of us with the incredible landscape we are fortunate to call home.

At Estancia Los Potreros, we are more than a destination - we are a place where people come together. A place where stories are shared, traditions are celebrated and lifelong friendships are created.

Because here, in the Sierras Chicas, every adventure begins with a connection, every memory is built together, and every story begins with friendship.

Join us and discover the magic of estancia life, where authentic experiences, Argentine traditions and friendships from around the world come together under the open skies.

A Journey into the Tradition and Culture of the Pampas

Riding Into Tradition…

Deep in the rolling hills of Córdoba, Argentina, the spirit of the gaucho still rides strong. At Estancia Los Potreros, this isn't a museum piece - it's daily life. Gauchos are Argentina's legendary horsemen, born from centuries of cattle-herding on the vast Pampas grasslands. Skilled, independent, and deeply connected to the land, they became a symbol of national identity, much like the cowboy in North America or the llanero in Venezuela.

The gaucho's story stretches back to the colonial era, when mixed-heritage horsemen roamed the open plains, living off the land and driving wild cattle herds long before fences and property lines carved up the countryside. Over time, as ranching became more structured, gauchos evolved from wandering nomads into skilled ranch hands - men whose knowledge of horses, cattle, and terrain made them indispensable to the great estancias that still define rural Argentina today.

Their influence stretches far beyond horsemanship. Gaucho culture has shaped Argentine music, folk dance, and cuisine - from the smoky rituals of asado barbecue to the soulful, improvised verses of payada singing, where two performers trade rhymed lines set to guitar. Traditional dances like the chacarera and zamba, born in gaucho communities, remain staples at rural festivals and family gatherings alike. Writers and poets also drew heavily on gaucho life as a wellspring of national literature; José Hernández's epic poem Martín Fierro stands as perhaps the most iconic literary tribute to this way of life, cementing the gaucho's place in Argentina's cultural memory for good.

Even the gaucho's clothing tells a story. The wide-brimmed hat, the loose bombacha trousers, the woven faja belt, and the sharp facón knife weren't just practical tools for life on horseback they became enduring symbols of rugged independence and pride, still worn today during festivals and rodeo-style gaucho competitions known as jineteadas.

Visiting an estancia like Los Potreros offers a rare chance to experience this heritage firsthand. Guests can ride alongside working gauchos through the dramatic sierra landscapes, help move cattle across open pasture, and share meals rooted in generations-old tradition. It's a living connection to a culture that has managed to endure - not frozen in the past, but carried forward by the people who still saddle up every morning to do the same work their ancestors did.

In a rapidly modernising world, the gaucho remains a quiet reminder that some traditions are worth preserving not out of nostalgia, but because they still work and still matter.

The Early History of Los Potreros

The Early Roots of Estancia Los Potreros: A Journey Through Time

On 8 August 1825, William Grierson sailed across the Atlantic aboard the ship Symmetry as part of the first organised migration to Argentinafrom Leith, Edinburgh. Two and a half months and 7,000 miles later, he and more than 200 compatriots docked in Buenos Aires with the hopes of laying the foundations of a pioneering Argentine colony of Scottish farmers. The intervening years were fraught with immense challenges, but today nearly two centuries later, the Begg family have not been dissuaded from farming. In the central province of Córdoba amidst the rolling hills of the Sierras Chicas, lies Estancia Los Potreros, run by the direct descendants of William Grierson.

The Begg family first settled in the Córdoba region in the early part of the 20th century. Robin Glassford Begg and his wife Louie regularly came to holiday at Potrero de Loza, which was owned by the Keene family. They used to stay in the Muñecas cottage (or Dollshouse), which was built for them beside the main house. The Beggs later lived at Los Melados, which they rented from Guy Keene, and eventually built their own house on the land that they purchased, Potrero de Niz.

After Robin’s death in 1949, Louie began taking paying guests. They usually stayed for around a month or two. Before long Louie introduced the practice of keeping a guestbook, a tradition that is still maintained today. Over the years people have shared their lyrical memories of their time on the estancia, which has been described as ‘heaven among the hill tops’. Louie lived to see three centuries, passing away at the impressive age of 104. She and had three children Jean, Margaret and Robert.

5 Minutes with Kevin Begg

Bringing Los Potreros to Life

As a fourth-generation member of the Begg family, Kevin Begg has grown up with a deep appreciation for the land, the culture, and the traditions that have shaped Estancia Los Potreros. Kevin is proud to continue the family legacy, managing the daily operations of the estancia and ensuring that its unique blend of Argentine heritage and authentic rural experiences thrives for future generations.

With a background rooted in agriculture and a lifelong connection to the estancia, Kevin has a hands-on approach to managing the property. From overseeing the Aberdeen Angus cattle and horse breeding programs to coordinating guest activities and events, he brings a deep understanding of both the practical and cultural aspects of ranch life.

Kevin’s commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism is at the heart of his approach to managing Estancia Los Potreros. He is passionate about preserving the natural beauty of the Sierras Chicas while ensuring that guests have the opportunity to experience the traditional gaucho lifestyle and the vibrant Argentine rural culture.

Known for his warm hospitality and approachable nature, Kevin loves sharing the stories and traditions of Los Potreros with guests, making sure that every stay is both enriching and memorable. Whether guiding a horseback ride through the pampas or discussing the estancia’s history over a traditional Argentine asado, Kevin’s dedication to his heritage and guests is felt in every aspect of the estancia.

Los Pots in the Top 101 Best Hotels in the World

Estancia Los Potreros Named Among Tatler’s Top 101 Best Hotels in the World

We were incredibly honoured to be included in Tatler’s prestigious list of the Top 101 Best Hotels in the World, a recognition that celebrates the most exceptional, unique and inspiring places to stay across the globe.

This achievement reflects our passion for creating an authentic Argentine estancia experience—one that combines heartfelt hospitality, breathtaking landscapes, sustainable living and the timeless traditions of rural Argentina.

Nestled in the rolling hills of Córdoba, Estancia Los Potreros is much more than a place to stay. It is a working cattle ranch, a family home and a gateway to discovering the true spirit of the Argentine countryside. Our guests are invited to experience life beyond the ordinary, from riding with our gauchos across open landscapes and exploring the surrounding wilderness, to sharing long, memorable meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Being recognised by Tatler places Los Potreros alongside some of the world’s most remarkable hotels and retreats, celebrating destinations that offer something truly special. For us, the greatest luxury has always been authenticity—the freedom of wide-open spaces, the connection between people and nature, and the warmth of making every guest feel part of the estancia family.

Whether guests arrive seeking adventure on horseback, a deeper connection with nature, unforgettable wildlife encounters or simply the chance to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the countryside, Los Potreros offers an experience that stays with them long after they leave.

This recognition is a tribute to the dedication of our wonderful team, whose passion and care bring the estancia to life every day. We are proud to share our corner of Argentina with travellers from around the world and look forward to welcoming many more guests to experience the magic of Estancia Los Potreros.

Capilla de Buffo: A Hidden Sanctuary of Love, Science, and Spirit

Tucked away on the edge of our rolling hills is the Capilla de Buffo is far more than a chapel—it's a deeply personal monument, a blend of art, science, and eternal love. Built in the 1940s by Guido Buffo, an Italian-Argentine scientist, painter, and philosopher, this unique space serves as both a mausoleum and a spiritual refuge.

The chapel was created by Buffo in memory of his beloved wife Leonor Allende and their daughter Eleonora, both of whom passed away at young ages. Heartbroken but inspired, Buffo poured his grief into constructing a sanctuary that would honour their memory forever. The building’s design takes inspiration from the cardo santo (holy thistle) flower, a symbol of purity and fleeting beauty.

Every architectural detail, from the layout to the hand-carved symbols, reflects Buffo's emotional and spiritual connection to his lost family.

Guido Buffo was not only a spiritual man, but also deeply rooted in scientific thought. Inside the chapel, he installed three Foucault pendulums, instruments used to demonstrate the Earth’s rotation. These pendulums are not just scientific tools, they lend the space a mysterious, almost mystical ambiance.

In addition, the chapel’s acoustics were carefully designed to amplify even the softest sounds, creating an immersive sensory experience for visitors, one that balances silence with the subtle rhythms of nature and science.

On Sunday mornings, we like to ride down to the chapel and spend some time down their taking a tour and having an opportunity to witness something so unique and special. The memorial itself is filled with little symbols to honour both his wife and daughter, including circular metal discs on the floor which represent the star constellations on the night his wife died. Another fascinating element is every year on the birthday of his wife, a ray of sunlight, enters through the skylight on the roof and illuminates the alter.

The Legacy of Our Aberdeen Angus Herd

Our herd of Aberdeen Angus has been part of the estancia since the Begg family first settled here, although to begin with the cattle was bred primarily for personal consumption on the farm. Today the herd, much larger in size, is part of a commercial operation, every year developing the bloodstock further to produce an animal which calves easily and thrives on the poorer winter grass is a priority.

This year has been no exception and has been particularly exciting with the introduction of bloodlines which go directly back to Scotland and some of the original Angus cattle. Taking inspiration from our roots, we have focused these last few years in reintroducing traditional techniques into our daily life, by honoring the traditions that are historical to Estancia’s in Argentina.   

In the coming days and weeks we will begin to prepare for the annual cattle sales. The entire herd is rounded up from the adjacent hills and valleys and then the task of separating the animals begins. All cattle must be vaccinated and thoroughly checked before sale. Despite the blinding dust that begins to surround the corrals, the gauchos have exceptional skills in sorting the herd. 

Once the work is done the gauchos, guests, guides and neighbors sit down and enjoy a delicious asado on a long trestle table, ready for another day! 

The Modern Luxury of Responsible Travel

As countries around the world begin to relax their rules on quarantine, we can begin to think about turning our lock-down dreams into realities and begin to travel again. Over the last few months we have begun to witness a change in the natural world, perhaps a silver lining to such an overcast time. Air and water qualities have improved, wildlife across the world has begun to return to our cities and has begun to thrive in areas where they were once under threat, carbon emissions have started to drop and as a result so has air pollution.

This is a time to change how we travel, supporting hotels and destinations which have an ethos of responsible tourism and sustainable practices. Both of these are huge parts of life at Estancia Los Potreros. Still a working cattle estancia, we work hard to remain true to our original values.

We produce the majority of our energy through renewable resources mainly wind and solar all our farming is based upon organic principles. We try to minimise our impact on the land and allow nature to dictate our course, managing our herd carefully we prevent over-grazed and eroded land, ensuring we have sufficient grass for both our horses and cattle throughout the year. 

Located on a provincial reserve of the Sierras Chicas we have a farming style which continues to encourage the presence of incredible wildlife including the elusive puma, wild boar, foxes, hairs, and with regularly sightings of the Andean Condors, whose habitat lies across the Punilla valley, in the Sierras Grandes.Although we are known for our world class riding we have an incredible variety of birdlife year round, from the commonly spotted burrowing owls, field flickers and southern lapwings to visits from the more exotic peregrine falcons, black vultures and American kestrels. 

Supporting our community is very important to us, the majority of our staff are a part of our family. Many have followed in the footsteps of their elder brothers, fathers, grandfathers, and even great grandfathers, who have worked alongside the Begg family for generations. We have long supported the local rural school, with the help of our guests. By running a small shop on the estancia, we donate all the income to the school, which is where many of our gauchos studied, and is now attended by their children. 

Our commitment to responsible tourism was born out of a necessity, as our location is off the grid, and we have to be as self-sufficient as possible, but now more than ever we are working on minimising our impact on our environment. Although this doesn’t mean we are for-going luxury, we are redefining the way we live. Even mealtimes celebrate each season of fruit and vegetables accompanied by tender delicious beef from the estancia.

One of life’s great luxuries should be to leave a positive impact on the places we love to visit, helping them to protect their culture and history but more importantly ensuring we will be able to visit time and time again for years to come.

Through the Guides Eyes...

The world has been hugely affected by the ongoing pandemic of 2020 and it is something I am sure many of us will never forget; from the shortage of toilet paper to the extensive period of social distancing, disruption has been widely felt and Argentina is no exception. Although life on a working cattle estancia continues one of our guides Sammie has decided to share with us an insight into quarantine at Estancia Los Potreros.

‘Que estamos separando? What are we separating?’

´Las lindas de las feas. The beautiful from the ugly´

A year ago today, if you’d told me that I’d be chasing cows around a corral on foot, separating the ‘good looking’ from the ´ugly´ ones I´d have thought you were mad; but here we are. 

For many across the globe, COVID-19 has put a halt on life, but work doesn´t stop on a farm. This week we pregnancy tested our Aberdeen Angus cows. With the horizon still aglow from a tangerine sunrise, six of us tacked up our horses and headed out to the campo in search of cows in order to herd them to our cattle station. With my ´compañero´ Pachi we headed out across the sierras. ´Go over that hill, and push any cows you find, over the other hill´ Pachi (unhelpfully) instructed; hills, that I might add, are as high, if not higher than Ben Nevis.

Wanting to prove my worth, I cantered over the crest and found some cows scattered over the rock and crag. My horse, Muchacho, much better versed in cow herding than me, and certainly more sure-footed, found his way through the difficult terrain. Nearly six months have passed and I still can´t whistle like the gauchos, but I have learnt to copy their various calls (and Spanish vocabulary that I definitely wasn´t taught as school). Pachi and I reconvened and pushed our cows together. Eventually three distinct lines of cattle from opposing directions converged and the six of us pushed the whole herd to the cattle station. 

Once the cows were separated we quickly took up a station each in order to start testing. Georgie on her horse in the corral pushed 10-15 cows into a smaller corral; Pachi then moved one into the shoot; a gate was then shut behind it (my job); Headman Dani clamped the head; Kevin read out the number to Georgia on his chip reader; the vet entered and inserted her arm to ascertain how far along the cow as with her calf. The cow was then released, and the process started again, only stopping for an asado lunch, cooked by Daniel. 

Work was over for the vet, but not for us. Dust and sweat mingled on our brows, as we then began to separate the female from the male calves, on foot. It was only halfway through this process that I realized the gauchos had rebenques, and we didn´t. Great. If you want to picture what this looks like, all you need imagine is a game of dodgeball, but with live cows. 

Soon we had released all the males, and the next task was to find the 70 best-looking female cows, who were to be the estancia´s future mothers. Previously unbeknown to me, there are certain things you look for in a cow: normally short legs, but here longer ones so that they are able to easily traverse the rocky terrain. Also, a larger build and a ´nice face´ (I still don´t know what this actually means, but the gauchos seemed to). The rest were released, and these 70 would remain in the corral for the next three days to be weaned from their mothers (who would wreak havoc on the estancia trying to find them for the next 72 hrs.)

We rode home as the sun began to set, exhausted and filthy, but soaring in spirit. I reflected on the day, and my life here, wondering what the world will look like when our new calves enter it, and whether, after all of this, I´ll leave Los Potreros more fluent in Spanish or cow?

For enquiries about our guide program please send us your CV to marketing@estancialospotreros.com