Founded by Colonel José Gervasio Artigas on February 12, 1816, Carmelo is just 6 kilometres (4 miles) from the Resort. Carmelo is an authentic South American town (population 22,000) that has yet to be touched by commercialism. In the South American summer, many Argentinians dock their boats in this riverside town. It is known for its collection of cars from the 1920s and 1930s, which have been refurbished and can be seen throughout the area.

Uruguayan wineries produce about 800,000 bottles of wine each year. The wineries feature Tannat, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mistela grapes, as well as some sparkling wines. The wine is exported to France, Italy and Germany.

Three wineries are within a 40-kilometre (25-mile) radius of the Resort. Our local winery and the largest in the area is Irurtia. Located just 15 minutes from the Resort, Irurtia offers tastings of a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Tannat and Botrytis, a dessert wine.

This little church was founded December 1, 1869, and consencrated August 16, 1870. Since then, each year the church has held a celebration in honour of San Roque, the patron saint of those who are ill.

This gem of a city (population 30,000), with its charming South American ambience, is located on the Río de la Plata, a one-hour drive from Four Seasons Resort Carmelo. A driver and guide can be arranged to take you to this lovely city, which attracts thousands of tourists year-round. Founded in 1680 by the Portuguese, it was captured by Spain in 1763. The city features a number of small museums housed in original 18th-century homes, white-washed colonial buildings, a bevy of old cars, authentic restaurants and artisans' workshops. Colonia has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site by the United Nations. Outside the city is a Jesuit monastery which is in the process of being preserved by World Heritage and is well worth visiting.