Happiness found at Sacromonte Casitas

I’ve been asking myself: how do I want to rediscover the world? “With purpose” – was the answer. I think this is the word that will be the north for many people and business in the years to come. And so, I come across a project in Uruguay that is a great example of what it means to do things differently.

Because I am in Brazil right now, Uruguay seems a planet away. As a result, this tiny country neighboring Brazil is somehow still a mystery to me. But the news I hear from Uruguay are very exciting. They are a progressive, sustainable and a welcoming country. Sounds good, right?

Looking at the stars at Sacromonte in Uruguay

A NEAR YET REMOTE PLACE

Sacromonte winery & hotel, is one of the most relatable and wonderful stories of finding one’s voice, purpose and place in world because of its owner’s life story.

The hotel was envisioned by Edmond Borit, a former Peruvian executive. Born in Peru, the grandson of a French winemaker from Montpellier, he lived in Brazil and moved to Uruguay to set Sacromonte in 2014. Because, enough was enough for him. Out with the corporate life, in with life in Uruguay’s Sierra de Carapé, welcoming guests in a much slower and positively connected way of life, was the result.

Located in Maldonado and less than an hour away from José Ignacio, Sacromonte houses an exclusive boutique retreat with only 4 casitas, which are call “Shelters”. Its vineyard is nestled in the rolling hills of Maldonado in an idyllic landscape.

Looking at the stars at Sacromonte in Uruguay

A FUSION OF RUGGED OUTDOOR LIVING WITH MODERN AND MINIMALIST DESIGN

Designed by Brazilian and Uruguayan studio MAPA Architects, the casitas are spacious and light . The intention of blending in and reflecting its surroundings are a key design element. The shelters count with plunge pools, fireplaces and a small kitchen. Mirrored outer walls shell the prefabricated structure. Interiors are a cosy affair of local oak panels, and dark stones with a clean, minimalist vibe. No excess, only the necessary.

Looking at the stars at Sacromonte in Uruguay

Guests can enjoy the wine produced on site as well as experience the rugged terrain that frames the property. Walk, explore and contemplate. There is also a stunning chapel for meditation. The phenomenal barbecues and farm-to-table meals are served on a stunning setting at their hilltop oak communal table.

It is a great thing that normal is not that normal anymore. First, we have time to see the world from a different perspective and rethink where and why we want to go to the destinations we are dreaming of. I have to say that the new normal looks near, positive and bright at destinations like Sacromonte.

Looking at the stars at Sacromonte in Uruguay