Piriápolis, Uruguay

Piriápolis, Uruguay, as seen from the top of Cerro San Antonio
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Piriapolis_from_Cerro_San_Antonio.jpg
Author: Hoverfish


Piriápolis is a resort town in southern Uruguay, about 105 km (65 mi) from Montevideo. Founded in 1893 by Francisco Piria, it is older than the more popular Punta del Este. The town has a population of around 8,000 people (2011 estimate). It faces the Atlantic Ocean.

Piriápolis was almost single-handed created by Francisco Piria, who brought the land, built his own residence and established the town's first hotel. It is of no surprise therefore that he named the town after himself. Piria went on to build Argentino Hotel, one of the biggest hotels in South America. However, after he died, his children fought a long legal battle among themselves for the inheritance.

The main focus of Piriápolis is its waterfront promenade, called Rambla de los Argentinos. This is the most happening part of town,with hotels, casinos and an active nightlife. Perhaps the most interesting tourist attraction is Piria's Castle.

Piria's Castle, Piriápolis
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Castillo_Piria.jpg
Author: Góngora, FlickreviewR


Just 10 km outside of Piriápolis is Cerro Pan de Azúcar, the third highest point in Uruguay.

Visiting Piriápolis

There are buses to Piriápolis from Montevideo. It doesn't really make sense to fly to Piriápolis from Montevideo, as the flight takes an hour. The airport serves both Punta del Este and Piriápolis, and is in fact closer to Piriápolis. However you can reach Piriápolis by bus just as quickly, and much more cheaply.

Places of Interest in Piriápolis

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