Bahia Vik Jose Ignacio

The ocean view is lovely, though foliage blocks it from the rooms, and you can see it for free from the beach anyway. I can’t understand the hype or how they justify these prices for what seems like a mid-level property. I’ve stayed at high-end luxury hotels, and this one doesn’t belong in that category. The rooms feel as bare as a mausoleum, and the cafeteria-style dining room looks like a grade school. Breakfast service and options were abysmal. I also have to wonder whether the five-star reviews are legitimate.

The included breakfast was consistently good, with hot and cold options, fresh-squeezed juices, and plenty of tea and coffee. On a rainy, windy evening we spent time in the cozy game room, with its ping pong table and TV with a Xbox, so the weather didn’t spoil things. Our room was beautiful and spacious, with a large patio and a window facing part of the ocean. I especially liked the local art on the walls, which gave the room a distinct character and reflected Uruguay’s vibrant culture. We also had several stunning sunsets, and winding down by the fire pit with wine and a clear coastal sky full of stars was lovely. Because of when we visited, we often had the huge beach to ourselves. Our long daily walks through the dunes felt like a private escape. The staff made the stay unforgettable. Amparo, Santiago, and M’Lady were especially warm and attentive, and made us feel welcome in a private home. The Bahia Vik Concierge team arranged horseback riding at their sister property, Estancia Vik. We were both beginners, so we had a private 60 minute guided ride through part of the 4,000 acre property. The landscape was beautiful, and we spotted and identified many native birds. Our horses were lovely, and so was our gaucho Francisco. We came looking for a peaceful retreat with high-end comfort and natural beauty, and Bahia Vik delivered a magical stay. We can’t recommend it highly enough. Start planning that trip to Uruguay and Jose Ignacio.

The part I’d change is getting into town. Most things in Jose Ignacio are in town, apart from Bahia Vik and its restaurant, and it’s far enough that walking isn’t practical, especially at night. Taxis can be unreliable, and there really isn’t Uber in town, so a hotel shuttle or transfer would help a lot. Even one every 30 minutes in season and hourly in low season would make sense for a place marketed as 5 Star. More people might stay if they knew transport was available. The property itself was beautiful, and I loved the architecture. Staff on site were amazing and enjoyable to talk to, from the bar to the beach, while staying professional. I’ve forgotten her name since writing this later, but the Portena server at the pool and bar was especially great to chat with every day. I spent 4 days at Bahia Vik over Carnaval, and it was mostly a great stay. There were a few small things needing quick fixes: one sink didn’t drain properly, and the mini-bar barely had anything in it. I’d expect a few beers and snacks when it’s all charged to the room. The concierge was mostly pleasant but seemed disorganized and confused at times when making reservations. At 40,000 UYU / 1k USD per night, I think that’s fair to mention. The staff apologized, took responsibility for the mistakes, and tried to make things right, so that seems easy enough to improve. I’ll definitely be back in Jose Ignacio, probably next year for Carnaval. If I stay at Bahia Vik, I hope they’ll consider these points. It was mostly a great experience.

We made friends and met up with friends, and the whole stay was just wonderful. The Vik’s were there and very friendly, which added to it. We had an incredible time and already can’t wait to get back to Bahia Vik.