Paysandú: Thermal Baths, River Landscapes and Cultural Heritage

In the department of Paysandú, travel interests range from thermal pools and protected river landscapes to a historic estancia. When planning a hotel stay, you can first consider whether bathing, nature or history will be the main focus of your trip. Each of these themes offers specific points to help you decide.

Thermal Baths and Leisure Activities

Termas de Almirón has heated outdoor pools, indoor pools and a large pool that is temperature-controlled for summer. The differences in pool type and temperature may be useful if you have a particular facility in mind. As the facilities may change, check what is currently available before your visit. Termas de Guaviyú has eight large pools, jacuzzis and an indoor swimming pool, as well as courts for paddle tennis, frontón, football and volleyball. If you want to take sports courts into account alongside the pools, you will find four specific options here.

Another possible reason to travel is Vuela Termas, an international model aircraft gathering at Termas de Almirón. In February, the event is said to feature more than 180 aircraft, helicopters and drones, as well as pilots from Uruguay, Argentina and Brazil. If you want to plan your trip around the gathering, check whether it is scheduled for the year you plan to travel.

Islands, Rivers and Guided Trails

The Islas del Queguay protected area is in the department of Paysandú, where the Río Queguay Grande flows into the Río Uruguay. It comprises nine islands, adjacent coastal areas and the Río Uruguay, with a total area of 8,327 hectares. Thus, the description includes riverbanks and the river itself as well as the islands. The Islas del Queguay are also a breeding and nesting area for Rayadores, Atí and Gaviotines—a distinctive ecological feature of the landscape.

In the Montes de Queguay protected area, visitors can explore guided trails on foot, by kayak or by canoe. The options differ in how you get around: on foot or on the water. If you are considering an excursion like this, check the local arrangements before your visit.

History and Getting Around the Department

Estancia Buen Retiro and the Morató family’s castle are in the rural interior of the department of Paysandú, in the municipality of Guichón. The main building of the estancia was completed in 1904. Because of its imposing appearance, contemporaries called it “Castillo” (“Castle”); this nickname gives the building a specific historical connection and offers a different perspective on the region’s rural cultural heritage.

Meseta de Artigas also offers a useful point of reference when planning a visit: when its visitor center opened in December 2016, its facilities included tourist information, toilets, changing rooms and food and drink options. If you are planning to use these facilities, check what is currently available. A visitor program from 2021 also highlighted Paso de Andrés Pérez, Sendero de los Coronda and Farmacia Natural. If you include these places in your plans, check current visiting arrangements.

Discover more destinations: Beisso, Termas de San Nicanor, Esperanza, Daymán, Paysandú, Quebracho, Guichón, Piedras Coloradas.

For the broader travel overview: Uruguay.