When people think of estancias, they often picture the flat, endless grasslands of the Pampas. But head a little further west and you'll find Córdoba - and we think it's one of the most beautiful places in Argentina for an estancia stay. Here's why.
Rolling Hills and Big Views in the Sierras Chicas
Córdoba is a province of hills, valleys and rivers. The Sierras Chicas, where we live, are a range of rolling hills covered in native woodland, rocky outcrops and open grassland, with views that stretch for miles.
For riders, it's a dream. Rather than riding in a straight line across the plains, you're climbing up through the hills, crossing streams and coming out on ridges with the whole valley spread out below you. Every ride feels a little different.
Centuries of Estancia History in Córdoba
Córdoba has been ranching country for centuries. In the 1600s and 1700s the Jesuits ran a network of estancias across the province, raising cattle, sheep and mules to support their university and colleges in the city. Today the Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can still visit several of the old estancias.
Córdoba was also an important centre for breeding mules, which were driven north in huge numbers to work on the trade routes towards the Andes. That history is still part of country life here - we even have our own mule, Moscow, in the herd!
A Working Cattle Ranch in the Córdoba Hills
Los Potreros is a family-owned working cattle ranch, now in its third generation. We have just seven individually decorated rooms, so it feels much more like staying with friends than in a hotel.
Our days are all about the horses and the cattle. You'll ride our sure-footed Criollos through the hills, help our gauchos move the cattle between pastures and come home to long lunches, asados and evenings around the fire. In between, there's time to walk, swim, birdwatch or simply put your feet up.
Wildlife and Nature Around Our Estancia Home
The Sierras Chicas are full of life. On a single ride you might spot foxes, armadillos, hares, birds of prey and, if you're lucky, a condor soaring overhead. Birdwatchers will be in heaven, with everything from tiny hummingbirds to crested caracaras keeping an eye on the fields.
Easy to Reach and Easy to Combine With Other Trips
One of the best things about Córdoba is how easy it is to get to. Córdoba has an international airport with regular flights from Buenos Aires, and we can arrange your transfer to the farm. It's also a great base to combine with Buenos Aires, the wine regions or the northwest.
If you're looking for an estancia stay that gives you real countryside, real ranch life and real horses, Córdoba has it all. We'd love to welcome you.