Hip, laid-back, and blessed with a sultry climate, South America ticks all the right boxes for an exotic, pulse-quickening honeymoon.
From secluded rainforest retreats in Brazil to charming colonial residences in Colombia, travel experts Mr & Mrs Smith have handpicked five seductive stays around the continent for a taste of colourful, sun-kissed romance with Latin American flavour.
Hotel Casa San Agustin – Cartagena, Colombia
Perfectly poised for leisurely strolls through Cartagena’s atmospheric walled city, Hotel Casa San Agustin packs a whole lot of Old Town charm with 300 year-old frescoes and breezy rooms that lend it an air of colonial refinement. Guests can happily mingle around the courtyard’s freshwater pool snaking its way beneath a striking antique wall. For more privacy, book a Premium Room – each comes with a palm-shaded patio and a mosaic-tiled pool.
Smith extra: A bottle of wine on arrival. GoldSmith members also get free airport transfers.
Ponta dos Ganchos – Santa Catarina, Brazil
Surrounded by turquoise water on a secluded peninsula in southern Brazil, this relaxed rainforest retreat has all the hallmarks of a picture-perfect honeymoon. The resort sprawls all the way from jungle-tucked waterfalls to the choppy shores of the Atlantic, a 40-minute hike away: amble around the nature trails and spot whales escaping the Arctic winter between June and November. A private island seats one couple for dinner every night: book ahead for freshly caught seafood barbecued right on the beach.
Smith extra: A bottle of sparkling wine on arrival.
Casa de Uco – Mendoza, Argentina
A modernist vision in glass and stone, Casa de Uco commands sweeping vistas of the frosted Andean peaks. Nestled in the heart of Argentina’s wine country, this eco-friendly estate lends itself to earthly pleasures: sample vinotherapy treatments in the spa, sip on high-calibre Malbec, and soak in the sleek pool overlooking the man-made lagoon. Guests can borrow a bike for a peaceful jaunt through the vines or hop on horseback for a trot through the surrounding wide-open spaces.
Smith extra: A wine-tasting with the hotel’s sommelier for two.
Titilaka – Lake Titicaca, Peru
The only hotel on the rambling banks of Lake Titicaca, this remote hideaway looks and feels removed from real life. Start the day in splendour with striking lake views from every room, just a boat ride away from the birthplace of the Incans. Life here is very much aquatic: glide on kayaks on the ethereal waters, charter a sailing boat for the day, and tour secluded islands where weavers still produce traditional, Unesco-protected textiles.
Smith extra: Cocktails served on a private terrace.
Estancia la Bamba de Areco – Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
An elegant retreat set on sprawling ranch grounds, Estancia la Bamba de Areco is the stuff of equestrian fantasies. Ride the resident equine beauties whenever you fancy – just let the staff know and they’ll set up your saddles.The estate’s history-meets-style brand of luxury isn’t to be sneered at, either: take a dip in the inviting swimming pool, fill up on hearty asado or simply recline languorously on your four-poster bed.
Smith extra: A bottle of champagne in your room; GoldSmith members also get a guided tour of San Antonio de Areco.
Mr & Mrs Smith gets you the best rates, guaranteed, as well as a little something extra on arrival at every hotel. To book, call the Smith24 team toll free at 800 905 326 or visit their website.
