a system using the natural spring and wood
fire to heat the home and water. Comfortable,
tasteful furnishings complement the natural
environment surrounding the lodge, the
center and heart of ranch life. From this
prominent spot on a hill overlooking thousands
of acres, the lodge’s main living spaces have
large windows to stupendous views of the
mountains and valley below. Sunrise is a quiet
time to wander out on the deck and watch the
mountains and far-away valley lighten, as the
deep violet shadows of night awaken and are
chased away by the sun.
Rooms have baths (private and shared), and
provide spaces for singles, couples or families.
After all, this home was built for a large multigenerational family that still comes together
to share each summer. You can almost hear
laughter in the halls and the ghosts of a
thousand memories.
Bouncing along in Mr. Uriburu’s truck to
prepare the boat for a ride on the lake, he
passionately describes the estancia and
natural environment shaping much of his
family’s identity and lifestyle. He tells me
with unwavering conviction that the current
generation is very committed to preserving
the estancia and the legacy here, “It is simple
and very clear, we have to preserve and care
for this place so the next generation and their
children can enjoy it as we have.”
To accomplish this, the estancia opened the
property to a multi-night stay horseback riding
program they call Caballadas. Part of the
forward-thinking present generation caring
for this magical place are two sisters, Agustina
and Isabel Lagos Mármol, who do world-wide
promotions, bookings and lodge management.
Isabel’s husband, Santiago Uriburu, is the polo
playing horseman who runs the incredible
riding program. For serious riders desiring this
bespoke adventure, you must be experienced,
skilled on outdoor terrain, poses a great
sense of adventure and be willing to ride
steep mountain trails. The reason for being
this specific was explained to me, as we
gathered with other guests in front of the
stone fireplace and shared a bottle of wine.
As Santiago says, “We ask that (only) people
with an adventurous attitude, who can deal
with adversity and are athletically fit come and
ride. A positive mental attitude is important,
as here we are surrounded by an ever-changing
wilderness environment. We are in a remote
place. So advanced intermediate or expert
riders are best; safety is the reason.”
Mr. Uriburu has trained many of the horses.
They are beautiful, sure-footed and athletic.
Local artisans weave
blankets and saddle bags
His best have a polo pony’s stamina bred
with a Criollo’s sure-footed gait and brave
heart. An honest assessment of your abilities
and temperament is made initially by this
expert polo player. The day you arrive you
are required to ride. Then he matches you
with the perfect mount. The Chilean saddles
are very comfortable for long rides through
the mountains and made more comfortable
by the sheep skin on top of the saddle seat.
Tack is meticulously cared for and Mr. Uriburu
is an encouraging friendly master horseman
sometimes accompanied by a silent, steady
gaucho guide.
Out here you can’t make mistakes.
I observed his treatment and interaction
with his horses. Most of them are beloved
companions belonging to a family member.
A ride on the lake, a hike in the park, a swim and even
playing or fishing in the river full of rainbow trout can be
part of guests exploration of this magnificent place.
Santiago Uriburu, an
expert horseman, runs
the riding program at
Caballadas
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