Start your day trip in Montevideo with hotel pickup. Relax on the coastal drive to the lovely resort town of Punta del Este, which features the posh neighborhoods of San Rafael, Cantagril, and Beverly Hills. Your guide points out features of the landscape and shares the history of the region with onboard commentary.
Admire the seaside homes of La Barra del Maldonado, a charming old fishing town. Then continue on to visit two popular beaches. At Playa Brava, snap photos of the must-see sculpture by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal: "La Mano" (The Hand), also known as "Los Dedos" (The Fingers), depicts five human fingers protruding from the sand. On the other side of the peninsula enjoy the ocean views at Playa Mansa, where you have free time for lunch (own expense).
Afterward, head to Casa Pueblo, a Mediterranean-style villa and art gallery perched on a cliff atop Punta Ballena. Designed by Uruguayan painter and sculpture Carlos Páez Vilaró, the 9-story, whitewashed building includes a museum and gallery (own expense) where you can learn about the life of the artist and the history behind his creation.
After a full day touring Punta del Este, return back to your Montevideo hotel.
