Just 85 miles east of Montevideo, Punta del Este is often referred to as the "Jet Set Resort of South America", and while it used to be a three month hide-away for the world's rich and famous, today it is quickly developing into al all year resort.

The narrow peninsula, facing the bay on one side and the Atlantic ocean on the other side, has been totally built up.

Now the city is stretching up the coast as far as La Barra de Maldonado (the point at the top of the peninsular) and down the coast to Punta Ballena (off the picture).

Few hotels are on the beach, though there are several that have easy access to the beach.

Punta del Este is definitely the place to be if you want to see and be seen.  The city has a an active and high styled social life, with a vast cultural and artistic program and parties, spectacles and shows during the high season.

The new Conrad Resort and Casino (Las Vegas style) is drawing high rollers from around the world.

The Around the World Yacht race stops here for a month each summer.

Million dollar villas are common in the suburbs of  Punta del Este and many are frequented by the owners for only a short time during season. 

The rest of the year they are looked after by caretakers.  Many are available for rent by the month, ranging from $20,000 to $75,000 fully staffed.

Many hotels are available in the city and nearby area.   Some of LADATCO's favorites are:

• Mantra
• Serena
• Hotel-Art Cumbres de la Ballena
• Conrad Resort and Casino
• L'Auberge
• Posta del Cangrejo
• Jean Clevers
• Pousada Aldila