General Description

Estancia Los Potreros is a 6,000 acre working cattle farm in the Province of Cordoba, north west of Buenos Aires. The farm has been owned by an Anglo-Argentine family for four generations though it was inhabited long before that, as far back as the 1600's when mules bred at Los Potreros were used to carry silver from mines in Peru. Los Potreros is open to guests throughout the year and Cordoba Province, which is known for its good climate - not too hot in summer (November to March) and generally dry and sunny in winter – is probably one of the most interesting historically in the whole of Argentina. A typical stay at Los Potreros will include riding out each day to explore the country that surrounds the 'Sierra Chicas', the oldest mountain range in South America. There is often cattle work with the gauchos and some weeks are set aside for informal polo tuition (ideal for anyone wanting an introduction to the game) and for the progressive Bellstone Rides which follow a route through the hills, staying in local farms, country hotels and occasionally camping (optional). There is also plenty to do when not riding. The estancia provides a wonderful insight into rural Argentine life and is also a good centre for exploring both the university town of Cordoba, the second largest in Argentina, and the surrounding area with its 17th century Jesuit churches, national Jesuit museum and interesting villages. At certain times of year there are cattle drives, local cattle sales, rodeos and round-ups to visit or you can walk in the hills, bird watch, taste locally grown wines, swim in rivers and waterfalls, or simply relax by the pool.

Dates and length of stay can be arranged to suit on request, year round. Please contact us to discuss dates.

Summary

Horses and Riding

The horses are Peruvian Paso, Criollo and local cross-breds. They average about 15.2hh and are a comfortable ride, well mannered, responsive and sure footed. They are ridden western style and are used to neck reining. Saddles are English military saddles with comfortable sheepskins available for those who wish. The Estancia takes a maximum of 12 guests.

Hours: There is usually about 4 to 6 hours riding a day with breaks for rests and lunch, although hours are flexible and tailored to suit. Overnight excursions can be arranged on request, as well as longer expeditions.

Pace and experience required: These rides suit riders of various ability levels. As a minimum you must have some previous riding experience and be fairly fit. You should be comfortable and in control on a well schooled horse at a walk, trot and canter and used to riding in open country. Experienced riders will have responsive forward going horses and fun riding but there are also sensible, steady schoolmasters, and riding hours can be adjusted, for less experienced riders. The pace is varied with opportunities for canters and some slower days.

Accommodation

Accommodation is normally in one of two farm-houses on the Estancia. Rooms are traditionally decorated and all have their own en-suite tiled bathroom. Meals are eaten in the dining room of the main house.

Rates & Travel

Travel
The meeting point for the rides is Cordoba airport. You need to fly to Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, then take an internal flight to Cordoba, the closest airport to the Estancia. Alternatively you can fly to Santiago in Chile and from there to Cordoba. For flights from London budget around £700 to £800 economy return (varies with season and availability).

Itinerary in Brief

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