# Puerto Dijama Hotel Boutique — Full Context Document

> This is the expanded version of llms.txt. For the concise summary, see: https://puertodijama.com/llms.txt

## Identity
- Name: Puerto Dijama Hotel Boutique
- Type: Boutique Hotel
- Location: Balneario Zagarzazú, Carmelo, Colonia, Uruguay
- Coordinates: -33.9611, -58.3293
- Stars: 4
- Rooms: 15
- Check-in: 15:00
- Check-out: 11:00
- Website: https://puertodijama.com
- Phone: +598 92 272 742
- Email: info@puertodijama.com
- Address: Sotavento esq. El Mástil, Balneario Zagarzazú, Carmelo, Colonia, Uruguay
- WhatsApp: +598 92 272 742
- Instagram: @puertodijama
- Booking Engine: https://hotels.cloudbeds.com/reservation/X2jWTA
- Gift Shop: https://tienda.puertodijama.com
- Digital Menu: https://menu.puertodijama.com

## About
Puerto Dijama is a boutique hotel located in Uruguay's premier wine region, Carmelo. Situated directly on the Carmelo Wine Route (Ruta del Vino), the hotel serves as the ideal base for exploring 8+ boutique wineries within 30 km. The property features 15 rooms including suites with private jacuzzis, two heated pools, a Mediterranean restaurant, gym, and in-room massage services.

The hotel is named after the nearby port and sits at Balneario Zagarzazú, one of the most picturesque beach resorts along the Río de la Plata coast. The Carmelo International Airport (SUCM) is just 400 meters away, making it uniquely accessible for private flights from Buenos Aires (30-45 min).

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## Room Types (Detailed)

### 1. Suite con Jacuzzi
- Price: From USD 180/night
- Size: 45 m²
- Capacity: 2 guests
- Bed: King bed
- Floor: Ground floor
- View: Garden and natural surroundings
- Highlights: Private jacuzzi on terrace, most exclusive room, romantic experience
- Amenities: Buffet breakfast, private jacuzzi on terrace, private bathroom, Smart TV 50" with cable, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi, minibar, safe, hair dryer, premium amenities, private terrace, heated jacuzzi pool (37°C year-round), outdoor pool (heated 27°C Nov-Apr)

### 2. Deluxe Triple con Terraza
- Price: From USD 140/night
- Size: 38 m²
- Capacity: 3 guests
- Bed: Double + single bed
- Floor: Ground floor
- View: Terrace view
- Highlights: Triple capacity, private terrace, ideal for families
- Amenities: Buffet breakfast, private bathroom, private terrace, Smart TV 50" with cable, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi, minibar, hair dryer, courtesy amenities, heated jacuzzi pool, outdoor pool

### 3. Cuádruple con Terraza
- Price: From USD 160/night
- Size: 42 m²
- Capacity: 4 guests
- Bed: Double + 2 single beds
- Floor: Ground floor
- View: Terrace and garden
- Highlights: Capacity for 4, private terrace, ideal for families
- Amenities: Buffet breakfast, private bathroom, private terrace, Smart TV 50" with cable, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi, minibar, hair dryer, courtesy amenities, heated jacuzzi pool, outdoor pool

### 4. Deluxe con Terraza
- Price: From USD 120/night
- Size: 32 m²
- Capacity: 2 guests
- Bed: Queen bed
- Floor: Ground floor
- View: Terrace and garden
- Highlights: Ground floor, cable TV, private terrace, direct garden access
- Amenities: Buffet breakfast, private bathroom, private terrace, TV 50" with cable, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi, minibar, safe, hair dryer, courtesy amenities, heated jacuzzi pool, outdoor pool

### 5. Deluxe (Twin)
- Price: From USD 100/night
- Size: 28 m²
- Capacity: 2 guests
- Bed: 2 Twin beds
- Floor: First floor
- View: Hotel view
- Highlights: 2 Twin beds, best value, ideal for friends
- Amenities: Buffet breakfast, private bathroom, flat screen TV with cable, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi, minibar, safe, hair dryer, courtesy amenities, heated jacuzzi pool, outdoor pool

### All Rooms Include
Buffet breakfast, private bathroom, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi, minibar, safe, Smart TV, access to heated jacuzzi pool (37°C, year-round), access to outdoor pool (heated 27°C Nov-Apr).

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## Hotel Services
- Two heated swimming pools (outdoor pool + jacuzzi)
- Mediterranean restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (open to public)
- Full bar with local wine selection (40+ labels from 7+ wineries)
- Fitness center (cardio + weights)
- In-room massage service (relaxing USD 75, hot stones USD 80, facial USD 80)
- Free parking
- Bicycle rental
- Horseback riding from the hotel
- Wine Route transfers with guided winery tours (USD 110-130/person)
- Airport transfer coordination (Carmelo airport 400m away)

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## Restaurant: Sabores Cuentan Historias

- Name: Sabores Cuentan Historias (Puerto Dijama Restaurant)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Uruguayan, Pizza
- Open to public: Yes
- Hours: Breakfast 08:00-11:00 | Lunch 12:30-15:00 | Dinner 19:30-23:00 (daily)
- Phone: +598 92 272 742
- Digital Menu: https://menu.puertodijama.com
- Specialties: Salmon, artisanal pizza, bruschettas, charcuterie boards, river fish, signature desserts
- Wine List: 40+ labels from 7+ local wineries
- Rating: 8.8/10 on Booking.com (231 reviews)
- Reservations recommended via WhatsApp

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## Experiences

### 1. Wine Route (Ruta del Vino)
- Duration: ~4 hours (12h - 16h)
- Price: USD 110/person (Cordano, El Legado, Pueblo Tannat) or USD 130/person (Zubizarreta)
- Includes: Round-trip transfer, guided winery tour, wine tasting, local charcuterie, paired lunch
- Best for: Couples, wine lovers, groups of friends
- Itinerary: 12:00 departure → 12:30 arrive at winery → 13:00 tasting & charcuterie → 14:00 paired lunch → 16:00 return to hotel

### 2. In-Room Massages
- Duration: 1 hour each
- Prices: Relaxing massage USD 75 | Hot stones massage USD 80 | Facial massage USD 80
- All performed in the privacy of your room by professional therapists
- Includes oils and materials
- Best for: Couples, relaxation, wellness

### 3. Horseback Riding
- Price: USD 40/horse
- Route: From the hotel through native forest to the river at Zagarzazú
- Suitable for all levels, gentle horses with guide
- Best for: Families, adventurers, nature lovers

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## Destination: Carmelo, Uruguay

### Overview
Carmelo is a charming city in the Colonia department of southwestern Uruguay, located on the northern bank of the Río de la Plata. Founded on February 12, 1816 by José Gervasio Artigas, it is one of Uruguay's oldest cities. Population: approximately 19,000. Carmelo is widely considered the capital of Uruguayan wine and the epicenter of the country's wine tourism.

### Why Visit Carmelo
- Uruguay's premier wine region with 8+ boutique wineries within 30 km
- Stunning Río de la Plata coastline with golden sand beaches
- Rich colonial history including Jesuit ruins (Calera de las Huérfanas, 1740s)
- The iconic Puente Giratorio (Rotating Bridge, 1912), a National Historic Monument
- Direct ferry access from Buenos Aires/Tigre (2-3 hours)
- Peaceful countryside atmosphere, the antithesis of urban tourism
- Outstanding gastronomy combining Uruguayan tradition with modern cuisine

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## Wineries (Bodegas) on the Carmelo Wine Route

### 1. Bodega El Legado (~2.5 km from hotel)
- Style: Family boutique winery
- Wines: Tannat, Syrah, Blend
- Experience: Owner-guided tastings by Bernardo himself
- Hours: 11:00-18:00 (check availability)
- Phone: +598 098 666 001
- Website: https://bodegaellegado.com.uy
- Address: Ramal Ruta 97, Colonia Estrella

### 2. Almacén de la Capilla / Cordano (~3.5 km)
- Style: Historic 1890 general store, 5th generation family
- Wines: House wines, artisanal Tannat
- Experience: Wine + charcuterie + homemade empanadas in an authentic pulpería atmosphere
- Hours: 11:00-18:00 (daily)
- Phone: +598 099 544 255
- Address: Camino de los Peregrinos y Ana María Carpy, Colonia Estrella

### 3. Bodega Zubizarreta (~4 km)
- Style: Basque heritage, artisanal wines
- Wines: Tannat, Merlot, artisanal blend
- Experience: Personalized tastings near the Calera ruins
- Hours: 11:00-17:00 (by appointment)
- Phone: +598 099 280 284
- Website: https://bodegazubizarreta.com.uy
- Address: Ruta 21 km 241

### 4. Familia Irurtia (~4 km)
- Style: Historic winery since 1913, pioneer in quality wine
- Wines: Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
- Experience: Guided tour, multi-line tasting, winery tour
- Hours: 10:00-17:00 (check availability)
- Phone: +598 098 874 281
- Website: https://irurtia.com.uy

### 5. Pueblo Tannat (~5 km)
- Style: Winery + restaurant in vineyard setting
- Wines: Tannat, Merlot, house blend
- Experience: Tasting with lunch, vineyard tour, paired dinner
- Hours: Check availability for lunches
- Phone: +598 092 641 652
- Address: Continuación Irastorza, Colonia Estrella

### 6. Familia Fripp (~6 km)
- Style: Small-batch artisanal wines
- Wines: Tannat, author wines
- Experience: Informal tastings directly with the producer
- Hours: Check availability
- Phone: +598 99 935 861
- Address: Ruta 21 Km 217

### 7. Bodega Narbona (~9 km)
- Style: Historic 1909 estate with boutique hotel and gourmet restaurant
- Wines: Tannat Reserva, Merlot, Luz de Luna Blend, Albariño
- Experience: Guided visit + tasting, paired lunch, 5-course paired dinner, estate accommodation
- Hours: 11:00-18:00 (daily)
- Phone: +598 097 331 417
- Website: https://narbona.com.uy
- Address: Ruta 21 Km 268

### 8. Bodega Cerros de San Juan (~41 km)
- Style: Uruguay's oldest operating winery (founded 1854), National Historic Monument
- Wines: Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo, Riesling, Chardonnay
- Experience: Historic guided tour, centenary cellar tasting, lunch at Almacén de Piedra
- Hours: 11:00-18:00 (by appointment)
- Phone: +598 4540 4403
- Website: https://bodegacerrosdesanjuan.com
- Address: Ruta 21 Km 213.5

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## Restaurants in Carmelo

### 1. Puerto Dijama Restaurant (Hotel)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean with local products
- Specialties: Salmon, artisanal pizza, bruschettas, charcuterie boards, river fish
- Hours: Daily 08:00-23:00 (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Price: $$$
- Open to public: Yes
- Phone: +598 92 272 742

### 2. Narbona Wine Lodge
- Cuisine: Estate cuisine with own organic garden, historic 19th-century setting
- Specialties: Lamb, garden produce, artisanal cheeses, Narbona wines
- Hours: Daily lunch; Fri-Sat lunch and dinner
- Price: $$$
- Phone: +598 4540 4160
- Website: https://narbona.com.uy

### 3. Pueblo Tannat
- Cuisine: Contemporary Uruguayan in vineyard setting
- Specialties: Wood-fired meats, field cuisine, local wines
- Hours: Check availability for lunches
- Price: $$$
- Phone: +598 92 641 652

### 4. Che Carmelo By Morgan
- Cuisine: International, celiac-friendly reference in Carmelo
- Specialties: Mushroom risotto, braised lamb, bondiola, gluten-free empanadas and desserts
- Location: Roosevelt esq. Uruguay, facing Plaza Independencia
- Price: $$
- Phone: +598 4542 2591

### 5. Nido Bistró
- Cuisine: Author's cuisine bistro
- Specialties: Homemade pasta, catch of the day, organic vegetables, boutique wines
- Hours: Tue-Sat dinner 19:30-23:30; weekends brunch (high season)
- Price: $$$
- Phone: +598 94 341 049
- Instagram: @nidobistro

### 6. Basta Pedro
- Cuisine: Homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza at Puerto Camacho marina
- Specialties: Homemade pasta, clay oven pizza, Uruguayan chivito, homemade desserts
- Hours: Wed-Sun lunch and dinner
- Price: $$
- Phone: +598 4542 6789
- Instagram: @bastapedro

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## Beaches & Nature

### 1. Playa Zagarzazú (0 km — next to hotel)
- Golden sand, calm and safe waters, gentle slope ideal for children
- Spectacular sunsets over the Río de la Plata
- Activities: Swimming, paddle board, kayak, fishing, coastal walks
- Services: Lifeguard (season), showers, parking
- Best season: December-March

### 2. Playa Seré (2 km)
- Historic beach with coarse sand and rocky areas
- Ideal for birdwatching and landscape photography
- Activities: Birdwatching, photography, walks, artisanal fishing
- Best season: Year-round, especially autumn for migratory birds

### 3. Arroyo de las Vacas (city center)
- Iconic navigable stream through subtropical forest
- Rich biodiversity: otters, capybaras, herons, kingfishers
- Activities: Guided kayak, boat rides, wildlife observation
- Best season: Year-round; spring/autumn for birdwatching

### 4. Balneario Punta Gorda (15 km)
- Westernmost resort of Colonia department
- Virgin beaches, absolute tranquility, minimal infrastructure
- Wildlife: hares, grey foxes, flamingos (seasonal)
- Best season: Year-round; winter for solitude and migratory fauna

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## Heritage Sites

### 1. Puente Giratorio (1912) — City center
- Rotating bridge over Arroyo de las Vacas, 88 meters long
- Only human-powered rotating bridge in Uruguay, first in South America
- Manufactured in Germany by MAN (Augsburg-Nürnberg)
- National Historic Monument since 1994
- Free access 24 hours

### 2. Calera de las Huérfanas (1741) — 15 km
- Jesuit ruins, originally Estancia de Belén
- Site of the first 1,500 grapevines in Uruguay (birthplace of Uruguayan viticulture)
- Administered by Juan de San Martín (father of Argentine liberator)
- National Historic Monument since 1976
- Hours: Wed-Sun 14:00-18:00, free admission

### 3. Capilla Narbona (1732-1746) — 13 km
- One of the oldest rural constructions in Uruguay
- Chapel of the Virgin of Candelaria, watchtower, underground tunnels
- Charles Darwin stayed here in 1833
- Part of Narbona Wine Lodge complex

### 4. Puente Castells — 10 km
- Historic stone bridge over Arroyo de las Víboras
- Site of the first toll in Uruguay
- Still in use today

### 5. Plaza Independencia — City center
- Main square of Carmelo, heart of the historic center
- Surrounded by colonial architecture and the main parish church

### 6. Capilla de San Roque (1869) — 8 km
- Built after yellow fever epidemic, patron saint festival August 16
- Located on Ruta 21, Colonia Estrella

### 7. Teatro UAMA — City center
- 1916 theatre, one of the oldest in Colonia department
- Art Deco facade, 300-seat capacity, active cultural programming

### 8. Santuario Virgen del Carmen — City center
- Patron saint of Carmelo, patron saint festival July 16
- Neo-gothic style, dominant presence in city skyline

### 9. Conchillas — 45 km
- 19th-century British industrial town, built for the Evans & Latta company
- British architecture, Anglican church, stone houses
- National Historic Monument

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## Activities

### Golf
- Carmelo Golf Club: 18-hole Par 72 course (7,158 yards)
- Best course in Uruguay (Golf World Awards 2022)
- 270-hectare complex among vineyards
- Pro shop, restaurant, practice facilities

### Other Activities
- Horseback Riding: Through native forest and river at Zagarzazú (USD 40/horse)
- Kayaking: Rental at Puerto Camacho, calm Río de la Plata waters
- Cycling: Rural roads connecting wineries
- Birdwatching: Wetlands and native forests with seasonal migratory species
- Craft Brewery: Galia Brewing Co. in Colonia Estrella (Fri-Sat 12-4 PM)

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## Gift Vouchers (Tienda Puerto Dijama)

Available at https://tienda.puertodijama.com:

1. **2 noches Deluxe con Terraza** — USD 294 (was USD 420, 30% off). Includes: 2 nights, buffet breakfast, private terrace, WiFi.
2. **Suite con Jacuzzi + Cenas** — USD 490 (was USD 700, 30% off). Includes: 2 nights, private jacuzzi suite, 2 dinners, buffet breakfast.
3. **Deluxe con Terraza + Cenas** — USD 420 (was USD 600, 30% off). Includes: 2 nights, 2 dinners, buffet breakfast, private terrace.
4. **2 noches Triple con Terraza** — USD 350 (was USD 500, 30% off). Includes: 2 nights, up to 3 guests, buffet breakfast.
5. **Escapada Tigre–Carmelo** — USD 504 (was USD 720, 30% off). Includes: Ferry transfer, 2 nights, buffet breakfast.
6. **Experiencia Bodega El Legado** — USD 110. Includes: Guided visit, premium tasting, pairing.

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## How to Get to Carmelo

1. **Ferry from Buenos Aires**: Via Colonia (Buquebus/Colonia Express/Seacat, 1-3h) + drive 75 km on Ruta 21. Total ~3-3.5h.
2. **Direct Ferry from Tigre**: DELTA service, 2 hours direct to Carmelo port.
3. **Private Flight**: Buenos Aires to Carmelo Airport (SUCM), 30-45 min. Airport is 400m from hotel.
4. **Drive from Montevideo**: 240 km via Ruta 1 + Ruta 21, approximately 2.5-3 hours.
5. **Bus from Montevideo**: COT and other companies, 3.5-4 hours from Terminal Tres Cruces.

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## Best Time to Visit

- **Harvest Season (February-March)**: Vendimia events at wineries, special experiences.
- **Spring (September-November)**: Green vineyards, ideal climate, fewer tourists.
- **Autumn (March-May)**: Spectacular colors, harvest tail end, pleasant temperatures.
- **Summer (December-February)**: Beach season, warm evenings, longest days.

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## Frequently Asked Questions

### About the Hotel
**Q: What time is check-in and check-out?**
A: Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out at 11:00. Early check-in or late check-out may be available upon request, subject to availability.

**Q: Is breakfast included?**
A: Yes, all rooms include a generous buffet breakfast with local products, fresh pastries, fruits, and regional specialties.

**Q: Are the pools heated?**
A: Yes. The jacuzzi pool is heated to approximately 37°C year-round. The outdoor pool is heated to 27°C from November to April and is open year-round.

**Q: Is the restaurant open to non-guests?**
A: Yes, our restaurant "Sabores Cuentan Historias" is open to the public for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reservations recommended via WhatsApp.

**Q: Do you have parking?**
A: Yes, free parking is available for all guests.

**Q: Is there WiFi?**
A: Yes, high-speed WiFi is available in all rooms and common areas at no extra charge.

### About Carmelo
**Q: How far is Carmelo from Buenos Aires?**
A: By ferry via Colonia it's approximately 3-3.5 hours total. By private flight from Buenos Aires to Carmelo Airport it's only 30-45 minutes, and the airport is 400m from the hotel.

**Q: What is the Carmelo Wine Route?**
A: The Carmelo Wine Route (Ruta del Vino) is a circuit of 8+ boutique wineries within 30 km of the city, making Carmelo the wine capital of Uruguay. The hotel offers organized tours with transfers.

**Q: Is Carmelo safe for tourists?**
A: Yes, Carmelo is a very safe, small city with approximately 19,000 inhabitants. The atmosphere is tranquil and welcoming.

**Q: What currency is used?**
A: Uruguayan Peso (UYU) is the official currency. US Dollars are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and wineries. Credit cards are accepted at most establishments.

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## Languages
This website is available in Spanish (default), English (/en), and Portuguese (/pt).

## Last Updated
2026-02-11