Punta Del Diablo

Declared one of the top cities to visit in 2008, the fishing village in proximity to the rocky point which brought it this unique name is a touristic magnet during summer, when population rises from 400 to no less than 20,000 people. Visiting Punta del Diablo you will not find any resemblance to is hell-pointing name, instead it will prove to be a destination where nature still has its original charm and the touches of contemporary have reached only where truly necessary.

Colors overlooking the Ocean

A name with double meaning, one associated to a pointy rock and the other to Uruguay's prime coastal getaway, Punta del Diablo is literally translated as the ''devil's rocky point''. The cliff which extends on more than 600 feet forms together with two other rocky points what the locals call ''the Trident''. Named after the main rocky point, which separates its beaches, this small settlement lures tourists from around the world with its brightly colored buildings which may not offer luxury but compensates overlooking the ocean.

The seaside village located in the Rocha Department, about 300 kilometers (185 miles) away for Uruguay's capital city Montevideo. The Spanish speaking population of about 400 inhabitants consists mainly of fishermen and artisans. The richness of the ocean here has put Punta on a map because of the quality of production; the village with colored buildings started a new era in the fishing industry.

Beach Fires and Guitar Playing

The summer season at Punta del Diablo is between December and February, also during Easter week. Nature-oriented along with the peace looking travelers come to Punta to enjoy the fine sand beaches bordering the rich foamy ocean. Los Botes translated as ''Fisherman's Beach'' is where most boats depart in exploring the blue water. Rivero is a seashore popular with surfers and the ones looking to chill in the sandy open bars while La Viuda may remind you of summer camp with beach fires, playing guitar and singing songs.

Cormorans, Turtles and Ombu Trees

Even though nature has the most appeal when traveling to Punta del Diablo, this dreamy village has other several attractions. Explore the one of a kind flora and fauna with rare cormorants at Parque National Santa Teresa, immortalize the Fortaleza de Santa Teresa which was built by the Portuguese in 1762 and captured by the Spanish in 1793 or choose the Laguna Negra for boating or birdwatching. The Bosque the Ombues (Ombu Forest) is another highlight exposing the endemic Ombu tree which is known to survive on very little water. Traveling with young ones they may enjoy the Centro de Tortugas Marinas, a very educational spot where they will learn more about the slow walking ancient species.

Admire the non luxurious but so offering Punta del Diablo, Uruguay's mostly appreciated when it comes to nature's foamy waves.