An Estancia Visit

A luxury coach, with a steady driver (!), took us 114 km into the pampas. The setting was lovely; it had been made into a park with trees and birds such that I saw more birds in 10 minutes than the whole 5 weeks put together. Apparently anything growing more than 6 inches high has been planted by man. Somehow the beef raised on this vast pampas is the best.

We were greeted with an empanada and by a gaucho and a senorita in colonial dress.

There was time to look at the horses and watch a bit of polo - there are enough rich Argentinians to call this a popular sport.

Next a tour of the castle - an elaborate house built about 1900 in a variety of European styles and now a hotel. There was a wedding in the church and tables and chairs had been set outside but photos were to be in the castle.

Then to the serious business of the asado (the barbeque).

They were probably catering for 100, our group was about 20. Salad and then lots of well cooked meat but I have been spoilt eating at Don Julio's, just 2 blocks from the apartment, where the meat is cooked exactly to your liking.

Then the gauchos dance their folk dances similar to what we have seen at milongas but with much stamping of feet!

Finally the gauchos on their horses and some fast riding and much laughter and interaction with the audience - not sure what it was about though!

A final cake and drink and we were on the bus back. A very worthwhile day, pity about the meat!