Estancia Vik is close to everything; but seems millions of miles away. The countryside on which it sits is filled with cattle, waterfowl and a polo field. The intention with Vik’s hotels is that they feel more like a luxurious private residence than a hotel… check!
Visiting Uruguay still doesn’t have the same cache as other South American spots such as Chile or Argentina, but that may soon change. People might start reconsidering with the addition of two amazing hotels in the southeastern part of the country. The brainchildren of Alexander Vik, it’s no surprise these properties are gaining a global interest. Vik is part of a wealthy Norwegian fur merchant family. His international life follows a storied past- born in Norway, raised in Sweden, early school years were spent in the Canary Islands and college at Harvard University, also serving at the golf team’s captain.
An avid art collector, it’s no big surprise that Vik’s interests melded into the hotel industry. Now known as a couple of the worlds most avant-garde and luxurious hotels in the world, both Estancia Vik and Playa Vik are high luxury at it’s finest.
Estancia Vik opened in 2010 in the countryside of Uruguay where there’s endless sky and 4,000 acres of rolling countryside. Not surprising, Vik likes to call this “Marlboro country”. An avid art collector, every room has its own installation and large-scale pieces adorn the properties throughout. Working with local artists, the sculptures, murals and paintings found in the hotel common areas and rooms are part of Vik’s commitment to involve Uruguayan artist in the project. There’s so much to choose from, but our favorite view is of the 75 foot black granite swimming pool which makes you feel as though you’re about to swim right into the Atlantic Ocean. Dare to try?
Playa Vik is the design of Uruguayan architect, Carlos Ott who has has received international acclaim (he worked on the Paris Opera House and the Proscenium in the Philippines). “Sculpture” is clearly the eye-catching item… a double curved titanium and glass 55 foot wide sliding wall of glass… you feel as though you’re defying gravity! The unspoiled coastline goes on for miles and miles and the ingenious architecture of the hotel enables you to breath it in as you relax and let your worries float away.
Ahh, when can we go?
Estancia Vik – a view from above
Image courtesy of thank you for being sophisticated
The Living Spaces of the Vik feature an excellent art collection including this piece by Uruguayan sculptor Pablo Atchugarry.
Image courtesy of Gastronomia49
Estancia Vik – Called an “art inspired wonder ranch”, there is a black-granite swimming pool, a stable of ponies and playing fields on site, and a very contemporary parillero (BBQ room) sits in stark contrast to this brick vaulted dining room.
Image courtesy of Spaindex
Playa Vik is “sculpture” is perched on what some consider the most coveted spot of the Uruguayan coastline. Designed by local architect, Carlos Ott, this building is a feat in and of itself. Now, add the large collection of contemporary art and you have everything you could possibly wish for!
Image courtesy of: Angelina’s Casa
This international personality is most at home with his art, but the addition of Vik Estancia and Playa Vik to his portfolio can’t help but make him smile!
Image courtesy of: Sphere Life
