3 Best Hotels in Side Trips from Buenos Aires, Argentina

Just a few minutes from San Antonio de Areco takes you from town to the vastness of the Pampas and this absolute charmer of a boutique estancia. Estancia La Madrugada pulls off a magical balance of rusticity and elegance, the worn reflection of the region and its past, and a stylish, comfortable hospitality. An all-inclusive stay will leave you relaxed; the locale, enamored; the expertly prepared food and cocktails, deeply satisfied; and the genuinely warm staff, enchanted. Go for a brisk horse ride or laze by the enormous swimming pool set within an idyllic landscape, and return to a sampling of asado prepared by gauchos. With only three gracefully appointed rooms available, book well in advance.

A full-on resort designed with families in mind, Iguazú Grand is bursting with facilities to keep every family member satisfied. Spacious rooms overlook the jungle or the four swimming pools, while parents looking to have a romantic dinner at one of the three restaurants (El Jardín's menu focuses on regional ingredients) can leave the children in the care of the kids' club. A short walk from the Brazilian border, you can take advantage of the Puerto Iguazú duty-free deals or catch the bus to Foz. The Iguazú Grand even has its own nature trail.

Wooden walkways connect the luxurious bungalows—each with a private riverside deck. The highlights of staying here are that you can explore the delta in boats or kayaks, soak up the jungle atmosphere by the lagoon-like pool, take a yoga class, or indulge in a massage. Rooms have hardwood walls, jute rugs, and feather pillows in thick cotton cases as well as mosquito netting on the balconies and reading lights over the bathtubs. As well as a dining room and a grill, nighttime entertainment options include a living-room-style bar serving carefully crafted cocktails. The lodge is out of the way to justify a one-night stay but inquire about the two- and three-day all-inclusive packages.