Bahia Vik, Jose Ignacio

Fringed by the rugged sand dunes of Jose Ignacio, Bahia Vik is a beachfront hideaway that revels in the wilds of nature and the luxuries of modern design. Sprawled out across the sands, you’ll find 49 spacious suites ensconced either within stylish bungalows or the show-stopping main house. The views here are enviable, gazing out over the Southern Atlantic Ocean and some of the best sunsets we are yet to witness. But it’s not just the views that draw the eye, but the property’s impressive contemporary art collection too with a highlight being an expansive ceiling mural in the main house. Elsewhere not one but four dark stone swimming pools nestle into the dunes and two restaurants play out a story of local flavors beneath a wide-open sky.

Location

On the wilds of Mansa Beach, Bahia Vik epitomises Jose Ignacio’s boho-chic charm. Just a short stroll from the center of town with its on-trend eateries and boutiques (as well as sister property Playa Vik), Bahia Vik offers a more relaxed pace of life. This is somewhere you can hideaway in with the surrounding dunes offering a natural solution to privacy. 30 minutes from Punta del Este airport down the coast or an hour and a half from Montevideo, this beach retreat is the perfect way to wrap up a trip to either Uruguay or Argentina.

Your room

Each of the 49 rooms at Bahia Vik is utterly unique. Chief in part to the property’s extensive art collection, the rooms are characterised by the art that fills their walls. Unafraid of bold colors and statement pieces but equally happy to go softly about its way, there is a room here to match every personality. Beyond that, both the bungalows and house suites lead out onto private terraces with views across the dunes or ocean in a way that seeks to blend indoors and out. Bungalows range from two bedrooms to five and, with each room encompassing its own lounge area and ensuite bathroom, can be taken as a whole or by the room. Perfect for families and couples alike.

Why we like it

Whilst there is a pervading air of easy relaxation at Bahia Vik and the temptation of tumbling straight out of bed for a dip in the ocean can feel overwhelming at times, this is far from your traditional beach escape. Beyond the call of the ocean, days here are also spent turning your hand to more active pursuits such as surfing, polo and kite-boarding as well as to the insightful with access to local artists’ ateliers and wildlife tours in the company of naturalist guides. When all is said and done, end each day gathered around the bonfire, swapping stories with your fellow travelers.