Editors' Picks

Playa Vik

Beachfront, contemporary, boutique

Calle Los Cisnes Y Los Hornero, Jose Ignacio 00000

+598 93-704-866

See Website

Indagare Adored

At a Glance

José Ignacio is often billed as “the Hamptons of Latin America,” and while both are beloved summertime vacation spots for wealthy urbanites looking for sandy, dune-lined beaches, the similarities end there. For no place in Long Island does boho chic quite like this former fishing village on Uruguay’s Atlantic coast. It’s home to a handful of excellent restaurants, art galleries and three fabulous sister hotels from husband-and-wife hoteliers Alex and Carrie Vik. The more intimate Playa Vik, with just three suites and six casas, was designed by Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott and is chock-full of contemporary art, including vibrant murals.

The Standout: Sunsets reflecting off the pool, which sparkles with tiny lights Don’t Miss: Lunch on the beach at La Huella, a restaurant with a cult following, just a few blocks away

Indagare Loves

  • Casa Mar, Playa’s spacious three-bedroom oceanfront casa
  • Expansive vistas from the Valentina Suite, the largest and most ornate in the Sculpture Building
  • Cocktails by the fire pit with views of sea and sand

Review

With space age-style buildings and a wild design, Playa Vik feels like an art aficionado’s ultimate escape—and in some ways it is. Owners Alex and Carrie Vik, who first founded nearby Estancia Vik and later Bahia Vik, hired the renowned Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott to fashion an ultra sleek hideaway that would blend in with the natural landscape (rooftops are planted) and allow residents to revel in the open Atlantic views and great art.

In separate buildings around a central courtyard, there are six casas, but the one in the front is the only with straight on sea views. The Sculpture building is home to four suites as well as a restaurant, library and the pool, which juts dramatically over the beach and, at night, sparkles with tiny lights that mimic the stars.

A different contemporary artist brought his vision to bear on each of the suites; the living room of one suite has walls with a parade of colorful Picasso-esque figures, while another bears quotes from classic and modern wits like Winston Churchill and Mick Jagger. Each bathroom, too, is different, with one containing a wooden canoe-shaped bathtub that was made by Uruguayan boat builders, and another outfitted in grey stone with a glass wall overlooking the beach.

The shared spaces are undoubtedly special, too. There is an outdoor fire pit by the beach’s edge, a vast wine cellar, a game room and a small spa. When José Ignacio teems with action during the holidays, Playa Vik is a haven within walking distance from the buzz.

Note: Those interested in a vacation here should first read our José Ignacio: Who Should Go or contact our Bookings Team for advice.

Indagare Tip

It is crucial to reserve the right rooms at Playa Vik, as most are set so that they afford no beach views whatsoever. Indagare members can contact the Bookings Team for help reserving the best rooms.

Who Should Stay

Those who want an intimate setting within walking distance of town.

Written by Indagare

What's Nearby

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Indagare employees walking up stiars

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