WRITTEN BY: SARAH | PHOTOS & VIDEO BY: MARIA JESUS

On a rainy day in January, I met with a Buenos Aires local who told me exciting news. The Four Seasons Buenos Aires, the most beautiful hotel in the area, has a picturesque rooftop garden and heated pool that is open to the public. It’s practically a local secret and I was honored to learn it. As a lover of luxury hotels, I knew that the next sunny day would be spent on their rooftop.

A few days later, I found myself enjoying a traditional Argentine breakfast of medialunas, coffee and orange juice while lounging by the pool and gazing at a Belle Époque-style mansion, rich in history as it is in presence. 

Built in 1916, La Mansión tells the story of a family. Félix de Álzaga Unzué, the dashing heir to a vast South American ranching fortune, built the masterpiece as a wedding gift for his young bride, Elena Peña Unzué. The couple lived at the home of Félix’s parents for four years, until La Mansión was inaugurated in 1920. Today, there are 7 one-of-a-kind suites inside and, based on the photos I’ve seen, it is the ultimate extravagance. 

The heated Roman style-pool is nestled on the rooftop amongst La Mansión, gardens and the tantalizing culinary treats of Nuestro Secreto. Not only does the Four Seasons service exceed expectations (a pool attendant offered to help me apply sunscreen), but they also provide towels, magazines and sunblock for guests.

For lunch we indulged at Nuestro Secreto Restaurant (check out the video below). With a casual eclectic backyard esthetic, the restaurant transports guests to a “secret garden” urban retreat within a bustling cityscape. I personally thought it was the best meal I had in the city. We sat indoors next to the open kitchen and while enjoying our meal we were able to witness the chefs conjure classic Argentine dishes with fresh ingredients. They also had a clay oven to cook specific food items to perfection, giving them charred and bold flavors.

If you’re heading to Buenos Aires, make sure you stop by and have a few drinks, dine at Nuestro Secreto and take a dip in their pool. You won’t regret it.

I was a guest of Nuestro Secreto, but the opinions are my own.