Estancia La Ernestina

Historic estancia in Península Valdés with cozy lodging, coastal views, and exclusive access to orca and marine wildlife sightings at Punta Norte.

OVERVIEW

Estancia La Ernestina is a historic 15,000-hectare ranch located in the heart of Península Valdés, Argentina. With over 20 kilometers of private coastline, it offers guests an unparalleled opportunity to experience the unique wildlife of the region. The estancia has been in the Copello family for four generations and was originally a Merino sheep farm before opening its doors to visitors interested in observing the area’s rich biodiversity.

The property is renowned for its proximity to Punta Norte, where orcas exhibit unique hunting behaviors, intentionally stranding themselves to capture sea lions—a phenomenon observed nowhere else in the world. Guests have the chance to witness this extraordinary spectacle, along with sightings of southern right whales and elephant seals, depending on the season.

ROOM CATEGORIES

Estancia La Ernestina offers eight comfortable guest rooms, each configured with either twin or double beds. All rooms feature private ensuite bathrooms equipped with a shower, sink, and toilet. For added comfort during cooler months, each room is fitted with a heater. The accommodations are designed to provide a cozy and authentic Patagonian experience, allowing guests to relax after a day of wildlife observation and exploration.

SERVICES

  • Dining Room: A communal space where breakfast and most dinners are served. The dining room also serves as a gathering place for guests to share experiences and stories from their day.

  • Outdoor Seating Areas: Guests can enjoy the serene rural setting, unwind, and socialize in designated outdoor spaces.

  • Traditional Asado: Once a week, a traditional Argentine barbecue (asado) is prepared by the head gaucho and chefs, featuring lamb from the farm. This feast is held in the “quincho,” a traditional asado hall used on the property for many years.

  • Dietary Accommodations: The talented chefs at Estancia La Ernestina can accommodate most dietary restrictions upon request.

Guests at Estancia La Ernestina have the unique opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats:​

  • Orca Watching: Witness the rare behavior of orcas intentionally stranding themselves to hunt sea lions at Punta Norte.​

  • Marine Life Observation: Depending on the season, guests may also see southern right whales and elephant seals along the coastline.​

  • Guided Excursions: The estancia provides access to beaches such as Medina Bay and the Palo, as well as the Punta Norte lighthouse (Faro), which serves as a strategic vantage point for spotting orcas and planning wildlife observations.​

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