One of the newest modalities amongst the tourist options offered in Argentina is estancia (ranch) tourism: a rural establishment conveniently conditioned to welcome travellers, accommodate them and take them on tours and to practice sports in open air, or simply to take a rest and enjoy a criollo roast beef or other typical dishes in a clearly bucolic ambience.

The Argentine estancia surged from a particular synthesis between criollo tradition (a tradition that grew up between the mix of European settlers and local indigenous people) and European culture. And during their evolution they utilised gauchos, natives and even former black slaves, as working force.

These historic ranch houses have a great architectonic value; they allow going on a tour through the development of Argentine history. They have been recycled and most have the necessary comfort and abide by strict quality rules, which added to the attention of their personnel, guarantee the success of your stay.

Many of these estancias were built before a dazzling park designed by some famous landscaper, and art collections and refined European suites come together in their interiors. Intricate groves brought from abroad are found in the parks, which are good to shelter the ranch houses from the wind.

The estancias are scattered all over the Province of Buenos Aires; they are a symbol of the wetlands and every place where one is standing is characterised with its own name. They constitute an alternative that offers travellers true peace and contact with nature.

The offers the estancias present contemplate unique spectacles such as the breaking in of horses, branding, folkloric shows, equestrian competitions, warm kitchen ranges and, of course, travellers will be able to enjoy an exquisite criollo roast beef, typical empanadas, and the excellent and well-appreciated Argentine wines.

Amongst the sports one can practice in these privileged spaces are fishing, canoeing, hunting, horseback riding, mountain biking, polo, watching the local flora and fauna and picturesque rides on sulkies.

The Province of Buenos Aires houses about 150 of these ranch houses, and the gaucho tradition is in all of them, along with beautiful natural settings that will make of this travellers' choice an unforgettable experience.