Argentina
November 6-29, 2009
November 26: Gaucho Ranch and Tango Show: Arrival at the Estancia & Horseback Riding
Going to an estancia to see the gaucho culture is one of those must-do things when visiting Buenos Aires. Christine had arranged for us to go the the Don Silvano estancia (www.donsilvano.com) which she herself had been to several times and enjoyed. The grounds were beautiful and it felt somewhat like being at a wealthy plantation in southern USA (or what I'd imagine that to be like!)
Thanks to some unexpected traffic and a missed turn we were a little late, but for once it worked to our advantage that nothing starts on time in Argentina and in fact we were still the first ones to arrive! Upon our arrival we were treated with juice and a snack of empanadas. Then Rodrigo, grandson of Don Silvano himself, came to greet us. He brought us to where the horses were and we had the choice of horseback riding or a carriage ride. To Sam and Christopher's delight we ended up doing both. Sam was especially excited to ride a horse: "I've never been on a horse before!"
We head out a bit early in case there's traffic but the roads are looking good.
We arrive at the Estancia Don Silvano.
Beautiful paths lined with roses lead from the parking lot to the main house.
Sammy's picture of the roses.
The main house.
We were brought back by the entrance where there was a little welcoming snack for us... juice and empanadas.
Enjoying the shade and the snack.
Cute horseshoe lamp fixture.
Rodrigo, grandson of Don Silvano himself, greets us as well as a whole bus load of tourists from Buenos Aires.
Samantha climbing a tree.
The horse barn where you can go for a horseback ride.
Which horse shall we take?
I know it's not a donkey, but still, doesn't he look like an Eeyore?!
We rode past the turkeys.
The horses calmly followed behind the leader.
The pool looked soooo inviting!
Rubby tries to take a backwards shot over his head... he only got Sammy.
Sheep grazing and rhea eggs are lying in the grass by the trees.
And there are the rheas!
Duck!
Anyone up for a game of bocci?!
We take another tour of the estancia grounds.
Beautifully kept buildings and gardens.
Idyllic surroundings. (but still no one is using the pool!)
Other tourists are checking out the grounds as well.
More beautiful gardens and what looks like a little water tower on the one building.
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