Posada Arenas de José Ignacio

Mauricio and Ines were so lovely, and Mariana went above and beyond. When I couldn’t find a cab, she drove me into town and was always available to help with anything or guide me around Jose Ignacio. The property is beautiful, breakfast is great, and the staff are kind and extremely helpful. It’s a short ride into town, and Marismo is right next door with amazing food. Such an amazing stay, highly recommended~!!!

The room and the rest of the property were immaculately clean, and everything exceeded my expectations. The friendly staff gave such personal, accommodating service that, in my experience traveling around the world, I’ve only had at five-star hotels. I stayed a few days at Posada Arenas de Jose Ignacio exactly a year ago, and the memory is still wonderful. Covid took away my vacation plans this year, but it can’t take away those memories of José Ignacio, Uruguay, which felt like paradise on earth. As an architect, I especially appreciated the welcoming, masterful design by one of the owners, distinguished local architect Fernando Sosa. The location is unbeatable, within walking distance of a gorgeous beach and across the street from Marismo, one of the best restaurants in town. A great pool, hot tub, and superb breakfast made my stay very satisfying. I know I’ll be back in Uruguay soon, and I already know where I’ll stay.

The breakfast was absolutely terrible. Everything offered was sweet, even the scrambled eggs, which were inedible. I’m not sure whether the kitchen mixed up sugar and salt or whether that’s simply how they make them. Their homemade “granola” was basically peanuts with the occasional shaving of almond or coconut, and my cappuccino was lukewarm at best. There was no hand soap in the bathroom, and the room’s AC wouldn’t cool to the set temperature. The “pool” was so tiny it wouldn’t qualify as a lap pool, more like an oversized unheated tub. The path from the main building to the rooms was so narrow it was virtually impossible not to bump into other rooms’ hammocks or patio furniture on the way. It was an overpriced disappointment.

The service came with a smile, and there are nice restaurants within walking distance through the woods. This is a very nice Posada, away from the crowds, with simple rooms that are clean and comfortable.