This is a Guru’Guay Top Pick
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Just ten minutes from the beaches and old-time seaside calm of Piriapolis, Hotel Ecolodge Citrino is a Piriapolis hotel like no other. Completely surrounded by monte nativo — Uruguay’s dense, low native woodland — this two-lodge eco-retreat is run by a young Uruguayan family who returned home after years abroad to build something meaningful, sustainable and deeply connected to place.
Their two handcrafted ecolodges, made from natural materials of straw, clay and wood, sit within five and a half hectares of untouched landscape where foxes, deer and even capybaras wander. Birdsong is constant. On a recent visit, I opened the Merlin app for just one minute and it identified 13 species, including several that are rarely spotted elsewhere.
Citrino is an ideal base for solo travellers (especially solo women), couples, small families and anyone craving quiet and nature — all within easy reach of the most popular beaches with Uruguayans.
The monte nativo is alive with wildlife. You’ll likely hear more species than you’ll ever be able to name. Deer, foxes and capybaras roam here (I only spotted very undeniable capybara *evidence-*ahem, the poo), and birdlife is spectacular from your lodge deck.
Each ecolodge has a tiny porthole where you can see the straw bale interior — a lovely reminder of the natural construction. These homes stay cool in summer and warm in winter, no air con or heating needed.
If you’re not self-catering, the family prepares excellent organic breakfasts using local and home-grown ingredients. You can also buy locally-made hair care products, soaps, creams and eco-products.
A shared barbecue area sits below a 200-year-old Coronilla tree. Vicky and Jero sometimes prepare long-table asados here — the sort of slow, communal meals that stay with you.
Between the hammocks, the short marked trail, and permission to explore the full property, this is the place to unwind, unplug and let the forest do its thing.
Each ecolodge is one bedroom with a sofa bed in the living room and a properly equipped kitchen.
This isn’t “eco” as branding — it’s the real thing.
Rates are very reasonable, especially for such a unique experience, and discounts apply for stays of more than one night — perfect for a slow weekend or a restorative week in nature.
There’s space for up to six RVs with access to shared areas.
The nearest spot for provisions is Estación Las Flores, a former railway stop. Otherwise, you’ll want Las Flores for other supplies. Part of Citrino’s charm is that there’s very little else around.
Citrino
Estación Las Flores, Maldonado, Uruguay
Phone / WhatsApp: +598 98 280 889 (Vicky)
Email: hola.citrinouy@gmail.com
