Located on Uruguay's coast, about 62 mi/100 km east of Montevideo, Piriapolis is a perfect place to pause before continuing to Punta del Este, which lies another 25 mi/41 km to the east. Developed before Punta became the coast's prime vacation spot, it centers on the weathered old Gran Hotel Argentino, which includes a casino and still carries a whiff of its original 1920s glamour.
The town is nestled in front of picturesque hills, including Pan de Azucar, a popular hiking destination. A chairlift takes passengers to the top of Cerro San Antonio, where they can enjoy spectacular views of the city, especially at sunset.
Also high in the hills is the Piria Castle, built as a private residence by Francisco Piria, the eccentric visionary who founded the city. It is now a museum open to the public.
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