Informed property pundits are growing increasingly excited about Uruguay’s real estate potential, likening it to the buzz of 1970′s Cote d’Azur. First-rate infrastructure, a sought after quality of life and a friendly and welcoming European culture are just some of Uruguay’s appealing characteristics.
Uruguay remains significantly undervalued, particularly in the areas around Punta del Este. A good mixture of old fashioned values with traditional Uruguayan tolerance predominate, all of which is reflected in the friendly and laid back lifestyle.

Analysts suggest that a couple of years ago Uruguay’s real estate prices equalled those in the south of France of 1985 and the belief is that by 2020 the property market will have become a truly international arena.
Here, the high season is from December to march, making it the “St. Tropez of January”, explains model turned interior decorator Natasha Caine (the only child of the actor sir Michael Caine and his wife, Shakira).

The pristine beaches and exciting atmosphere attract a diverse crowd, with the American and European jet-set quickly acquiring their famous Chacras (small farms) near the ocean. Caine, and her property-developer husband, Michael Hall hope to add a new flavour to the area with Villalagos. This gated development of 13 villas is set in 225 acres of lush green slopes at Punta Piedras, the exclusive area between the trendy beachside towns of La Barra and Jose Ignacio.

Set back 400 metres from the ocean dunes, these contemporary properties have breathtaking sea views, their own private lakes as well as direct access to the beach.

Ocean side estates
“It feels like you are in the middle of the countryside, when in fact you are right next to the ocean” says Caine. Each of the houses (from 6,000 sq ft) has a large courtyard, an infinity pool and a plot of at least 12 acres. Lakes, orchards and vegetable gardens surround them – supplying each owner with fresh produce.

Punta del Este’s beautiful coastline is becoming increasingly sought after by a mixed international market who are largely attracted by the style and glamour of the Argentinean polo set, together with the bohemian and relaxed lifestyle. From Brigitte Bardout and the Onassis in the 60′s to Ralph Lauren and Naomi Campbell today, they all loved it.
Although it is so far, every year more people are taking the overnight flight in order to enjoy empty beaches with jet-set allures. Villalagos provides a perfect opportunity to buy into this ‘dream’.