Sun, Sierras, and Spirits: Christmas & New Year to Remember

Christmas and New Year at Estancia Los Potreros was a celebration of sunshine, adventure, friendship and unforgettable moments. The holiday season was a sun-drenched blur of long horseback rides across the hills, refreshing afternoon swims, relaxed lunches beneath the trees and lively evenings filled with music, laughter and dancing.

The estancia came alive as we welcomed a wonderful mix of returning guests and new faces from around the world. There was a special energy throughout the farm as everyone settled into the rhythm of summer life in the Sierras Chicas. From the smell of the asado drifting across the lawn to spontaneous picnics in the shade of the trees, every day brought a new opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the landscape and the magic of estancia life.

One of the highlights of the festive season was our Blind Fernet Tasting, where guests were invited to compare three very different interpretations of this much-loved Argentine tradition. We pitted the classic Italian Fernet-Branca against the bold Argentine favourite and a sophisticated English wildcard, Britannica London Fernet. While the Argentine version remained the undisputed champion for the classic Fernet and Coke, the English Fernet surprised many guests with its distinctive notes of cacao and roasted nuts, winning over those who preferred to enjoy their Fernet neat.

Every year, our Christmas and New Year themes are carefully chosen months in advance, and this year’s celebrations were inspired by the elegance of red and gold. The Christmas tree in the Establo was transformed into a spectacular centrepiece, covered with red bows and sparkling golden lights. Guests, staff and even the dogs embraced the theme, dressing up for a festive evening full of style and celebration.

Behind the scenes, our kitchen team worked tirelessly to create memorable meals throughout the festivities. Christmas Eve was a true feast, combining Argentine favourites with a touch of British tradition. Guests enjoyed homemade empanadas, colourful seasonal salads, and a special taste of England with Yorkshire puddings filled with horseradish and roasted beef.

For New Year’s Eve, the farm was transformed into a European-inspired plaza beneath the stars. Decorations were hung between the trees using lassoes, while a “Spritz Station” brought a taste of summer evenings in Italy to the Establo. Fresh pizzas cooked on the parrilla were served throughout the evening, followed by dancing and celebrations that continued late into the night.

The crowning jewel, however, was our Full Moon Ride on January 3rd. Crossing the landscape under a silver sky, and watching the beautiful sunset from the highest point on the farm before sharing a moonlight picnic was pure magic - the perfect grand finale to a spectacular holiday.

We are already looking forward to welcoming guests back for another unforgettable Christmas and New Year at Los Potreros. If you would like to experience a summer Christmas under the Argentine stars, we still have availability for next year. Get in touch to reserve your place.

Meet Flamenco: The Newest Member of Our Family!

We are absolutely thrilled to finally introduce the newest addition to our herd: Flamenco.

A Journey Through the History of the Argentine Marchador

Every horse has a story, and we're excited to introduce one whose story began long before he arrived at our ranch. Meet Flamenco, the newest member of our herd and an incredible example of the Argentine Marchador - a horse admired for its beauty, intelligence, stamina, and one of the smoothest rides you'll ever experience.

At first glance, Flamenco is striking, but it's the way he moves that truly sets him apart. Unlike most horses that naturally trot, Marchadors perform a unique four-beat gait known as the ‘Marcha’. This smooth, rhythmic gait keeps at least one hoof in contact with the ground almost all the time, creating a ride with very little bounce. It's no surprise that riders often say they feel as though they're gliding over the trail instead of riding a horse. This natural gait has made the breed a favorite for long-distance trail riding, ranch work, and endurance riding throughout South America.

The history of the Marchador is just as fascinating as its movement. The breed traces its roots back to the early 1800s, when Iberian horses - particularly the Portuguese Alter Real, along with Andalusian, Barb, and Spanish Jennet bloodlines were crossed with hardy local horses in South America. Breeders wanted a horse that could comfortably travel long distances over rugged terrain while remaining strong, athletic, and willing to work all day. The result was a horse that combined endurance, intelligence, and the naturally smooth marcha gait that defines the breed today.

For generations, Marchadors became indispensable partners on cattle ranches and large estates. Riders often spent entire days in the saddle moving livestock across rolling hills, forests, and mountains. A comfortable horse wasn't considered a luxury it was essential. The Marchador's smooth gait allowed horse and rider to cover many miles without the fatigue that often comes with riding a trotting horse. This practical purpose helped shape the breed into one of the most respected saddle horses in South America.

While their athletic ability is impressive, Marchadors are equally admired for their temperament. They are known for being intelligent, curious, calm, and eager to please. These qualities make them wonderful trail horses and trusted companions for riders of varying experience levels. They are naturally sure-footed, making them well-suited for navigating uneven terrain, rocky trails, and changing landscapes with confidence.

Flamenco embodies everything we love about the breed. In the short time he's been with us, he has already become a barn favorite. His calm demeanor, inquisitive personality, and willingness to work make him a joy to be around both on the ground and under saddle. He approaches new experiences with confidence and seems to genuinely enjoy having a job to do.

We feel incredibly fortunate to welcome Flamenco to our herd. He represents centuries of thoughtful breeding, remarkable horsemanship, and a tradition of creating horses that are as dependable as they are beautiful. Whether you're an experienced rider or saddling up for the very first time, we think you'll quickly discover why the Marchador has earned such a devoted following around the world.

We can't wait for you to meet Flamenco and experience the legendary smooth ride of a Marchador for yourself. We have a feeling he's going to leave a lasting impression on everyone who has the chance to ride him.

Heritage, Habitat & Heart: A Farming Philosophy

The story of Estancia Los Potreros is not merely written in history books; it is etched into the rolling hills and pastures the Begg family call home. While the family’s connection to the land began even earlier through a tenancy agreement, it was in 1965 that Robert Begg formalised the farming system that continues to shape the estancia today.

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

The farming operations at Los Potreros are centred around two distinctive programmes:

Our Angus Cattle: The estancia raises a recognised herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle, with a breeding programme focused on quality, health and resilience.

A Diverse Equine Herd: Over the last two decades, the estancia has developed a collection of more than 120 horses, including Argentine and Chilean Criollos, Polo Ponies, Peruvian Pasos and Quarter Horses. Each breed brings its own character, versatility and traditions to life on the estancia.

LIVING WILD AND FREE

At Los Potreros, we believe that giving animals space to express their natural behaviours is an important part of good animal husbandry. Our approach centres on open pastures and allows cattle and horses to spend their time grazing, moving and socialising in their natural surroundings, wherever conditions and individual needs allow.

Rather than relying on intensive indoor housing or confined feeding systems, our farming approach makes use of the estancia’s grasslands and open landscape. This allows animals opportunities to graze, interact and move freely, while ensuring that their health, safety and welfare remain a priority.

For us, this is more than a farming choice. It is an important part of the way we care for our animals and maintain the traditions of the estancia.

CARING FOR THE LAND: LOOKING AHEAD

For Estancia Los Potreros, caring for the land is an ongoing responsibility. Our ambition is to manage the estancia in a way that supports the long-term health of the landscape, while recognising that meaningful environmental progress takes time, observation and continued effort.

The team works to maintain the natural character of the estancia and to care for the habitats and wildlife that share this landscape. Through our day-to-day farming practices, we aim to balance productive agriculture with the conservation of the surrounding environment.

We recognise that the health of the land is closely connected to the future of our farming operations. We therefore continue to explore how our management practices can support grassland health, habitat protection and biodiversity over time.

Our ambition is simple: to care for the land we have inherited and leave future generations with a landscape that continues to support farming, wildlife and the traditions of Los Potreros.

THE FIVE PILLARS OF ANIMAL WELFARE

Animal welfare is at the heart of the estancia. Our approach is built around five core principles that guide the work of our managers, gauchos and staff.

Freedom to Move: We aim to give animals generous space to move and graze, with appropriate management to meet their individual needs.

Natural Expression: We provide opportunities for animals to express natural behaviours, including grazing, movement and social interaction.

Environmental Well-being: Access to pasture, suitable shelter or natural protection, and appropriate care are important parts of our approach to animal welfare.

Nutrition: Our feeding practices are designed around the needs of the animals and the requirements of each farming programme. We do not use growth-promoting hormones, and our policy on feed additives and animal by-products reflects our approach to animal husbandry.

Expert Care: Our team is responsible for maintaining appropriate standards of animal care, recognising health concerns and ensuring that animals receive suitable attention when needed.

At Estancia Los Potreros, tradition and nature walk hand in hand. Our farming heritage connects us to the landscape, while our responsibility to the animals and land encourages us to keep learning, adapting and looking ahead. We want the estancia to remain a place where farming, wildlife and family traditions can continue side by side for generations to come.

Supporting Our Schools Through Local Craft

Our 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 similar 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.

What You'll Find in Our Small Estancia Shop

Alongside Pachi's rawhide belts, the shop stocks hand-painted mate cups and pieces from other local artisans and craftspeople, so every purchase also supports traditional skills in the region. Each item is a lovely keepsake of your stay, and a reminder of the people who make the estancia what it is.

Where the Money Goes: Projects So Far

All of the shop's proceeds go to the two rural schools we support, including the Gregoria Matorras school on the edge of the estancia, where many of our gauchos studied and their children go today. Over the years, guests' generosity has helped pay for the school's first computer and a printer, a new cooker, solar power, books and stationery, and improvements to the school buildings. You can read more in A Look Into the Success of Our Shop This Season.

Bring Something With You: Pack for a Purpose

We're proud to be part of Pack for a Purpose, so if you have a little space in your suitcase, you can help too. Stationery, footballs and children's games are always welcome, and we gratefully receive any donations. When we can, we ride down to the school to hand them over in person - and it usually ends with a game of football in the playground.

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…

Welcome to the Heart of 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 with the seasons, 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: A 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.

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.

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

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

A Herd That Has Grown Up With the Estancia

Our herd of Aberdeen Angus has been part of the estancia since the Begg family first settled here. In the early days the cattle were bred mainly for the family and the farm. Today the herd is much larger and part of a commercial operation, but it's still at the heart of life on the estancia. The cows and their calves are a familiar sight on rides across the farm, grazing the open hills and valleys.

Breeding Cattle That Thrive in the Sierras Chicas

Life in the hills asks a lot of a cow. Winters are dry, the grass is poorer, and the herd covers steep, rocky ground. So every year we work on developing the bloodlines further, choosing animals that calve easily and thrive on the winter grass. We've also brought in bloodlines that go directly back to Scotland and some of the original Angus cattle, a link to the breed's roots we're very proud of. Alongside this, we've been bringing back traditional ways of working that have long been part of estancia life in Argentina.

Round-Up Time: Preparing for the Annual Cattle Sales

Each year the herd is rounded up from the surrounding hills and valleys ahead of the annual cattle sales, and the job of separating the animals begins. Every animal is vaccinated and thoroughly checked before sale. Despite the clouds of dust that surround the corrals, the gauchos sort the herd with remarkable skill, reading each animal and moving it calmly to where it needs to go.

Riding With the Herd: How Guests Can Join In

Guests are welcome to ride out with the gauchos when they're working the cattle, whether that's helping bring the herd down from the hills or watching the sorting in the corrals. It's a rare chance to see a working estancia up close. And once the work is done, gauchos, guests, guides and neighbours sit down together for an asado at a long trestle table, ready for another day.

A Day in the Life: Herding Cattle at Los Potreros

The world has been hugely affected by the ongoing pandemic of 2020 and it is something I am sure many of us will 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, if you'd told me I'd spend my morning on foot in a corral, sorting cows into "good looking" and "ugly," I'd have laughed you off. But that's exactly where I found myself as a guide at Estancia Los Potreros.

Starting Before Sunrise

Life on a working cattle ranch doesn't pause for much, and this week it was time to pregnancy test our Aberdeen Angus herd. Six of us saddled up while the sky was still glowing tangerine and rode out into the campo to find the cattle and bring them down to the cattle station.

Riding alongside my compañero Pachi, we headed across the sierras - hills that felt every bit as steep as Ben Nevis. "Go over that hill, and push any cows you find over the next one," he instructed, unhelpfully. Wanting to prove myself, I cantered up and over, and found cattle scattered across rock and crag. My horse, Muchacho, was far more sure-footed than I was and picked his way through the terrain without hesitation.

Learning the Gaucho Way

Months in, I still can't whistle like the gauchos do, but I've picked up their calls and a fair bit of Spanish vocabulary that certainly wasn't part of my schooling. Pachi and I eventually reconvened, and three lines of cattle converging from different directions became one herd, pushed together toward the station.

A Day's Work on the Estancia

Once the cows were gathered, everyone took a station. Georgie worked her horse in the corral, pushing small groups through; Pachi guided them into the chute; I shut the gate behind each one; our headman Dani held the head steady; the vet checked how far along each cow was with her calf. We only paused for an asado lunch before starting again.

Work continued after the vet left, this time separating male and female calves on foot - closer to a game of dodgeball with live cows than anything else, especially once I realised the gauchos had rebenques and we didn't. By the end, we'd picked out the 70 best female calves, the future mothers of the herd, chosen for their build, their longer legs suited to the rocky ground, and a "nice face" I still can't quite define.

Riding Home

We rode back as the sun dropped, exhausted, filthy, and thoroughly content. Days like this are what estancia life is really about - hard work, a bit of chaos, and a growing sense of belonging to this place and its rhythms. I'm still not sure if I'll leave here more fluent in Spanish or in cow, but either way, I wouldn't trade the lesson.