This is The Pampas & the Atlantic Coast chapter from Lonely Planet’s Argentina guidebook.

The humble pampas are often overlooked, but there are hidden gems here and there. Visit the Atlantic coast’s bustling beaches, or spend a few days in a historic estancia, where the faded elegance of Argentina’s past can be experienced first-hand.

• soak up the sun with the crowds in the Atlantic Coast’s largest city, Mar del Plata
• maps
• peek through a natural rock ‘window’ atop the mountain Cerro de la Ventana
• transportation
• go gaucho in San Antonio de Areco, the prettiest town in the pampas
• restaurants & accommodations

Coverage includes: Northern Pampas, La Plata, Luján, San Antonio de Areco, Southern Pampas, Tandil, Sierra de la Ventana, Parque Provincial Ernesto Tornquist, Santa Rosa, Reserva Provincial Parque Luro, Parque Nacional Lihué Calel, Atlantic Coast, San Clemente Del Tuyú, Pinamar, Villa Gesell, Mar del Plata, Necochea and Bahía Blanca.