The Lodge

A Traditional Argentine Estancia

Welcome to Hunting & Fishing Paradise

Built in 1917, Estancia La Criolla is a beautifully preserved, authentic wing‑shooting and fishing lodge in the province of Santa Fe. Originally constructed to house managers of a large cattle and timber operation, the estancia has been owned by the Druetto family since 1953 and retains its historic character and warm, hospitable atmosphere. The family farms roughly 5,000 acres — planting sunflowers, soybeans, corn, and winter wheat — and manages about 1,800 head of Brangus cattle across some 9,000 acres of pasture. Estancia La Criolla has full agricultural and hunting infrastructure: tractors and harvesters, horses and pickup trucks, a 4,000‑foot landing strip, water pumps, and all the equipment required for successful guided hunts. During migration seasons the estancia secures access to nearby properties for additional hunting. Tomas Druetto notes that their long local history and established reputation make operations simpler and more efficient.

Meticulously maintained and built with noble materials—Carrara marble, pitch pine and black carob wood, brick, and iron—Estancia La Criolla is the premier hunting destination in Santa Fe. Duck hunting takes place at first light during the May–July season (Argentine winter); watching the sunrise as flocks pass is unforgettable. Afternoon hunts showcase Argentina’s world‑famous, high‑volume dove shooting: millions of birds roost in the surrounding countryside, and La Criolla is one of the province’s key dove‑shooting locations.

Whether you’re after top‑tier waterfowl or the thrill of high‑volume dove shoots, our lodge offers exceptional guiding, unbeatable accommodations, and a genuine estancia experience. Contact us to plan your visit or learn about seasonal availability.

Food & Wine

At Estancia La Criolla we serve the warm, home‑style Italian‑Argentine cuisine of a traditional family of Italian ancestry—the very dishes Grandma Nedda Cecchini used to prepare for her sons Roberto and Eduardo in the 50’s and for her grandsons Robert Jr. and Tomas in the 80’s. Expect tender Beef, homemade desserts, slow‑simmered dove ragùs, fresh breads, seasonal vegetables and fruits from our fields, all prepared simply and lovingly. Our cellar features classic Argentine Malbec wine, carefully selected to complement each meal. Dining here is convivial and family‑style—an authentic taste of the region and of our home.

Main Features

A place where history is breathed

Built in the 1910’s by the British, the lodge was designed by the famous architect Alejandro Bustillo who was also responsible for designing significant Argentinean buildings such as the National Bank, the National Museum of Fine Arts and the international Hotel Llao Llao sited in Patagonia. Respecting the refines and original style, the Estancia was recently modernized to offer an exclusive and tailor-made service for demanding bird shooters. Combining the charm of a traditional Estancia with brand new facilities, professionalism, hospitality and personalized attention our fine lodging service and staff will make you feel every detail has been taken care of. This way, the best bird shooting in the world, can be accompanied by the best regional cuisine and relaxing activities in our facilities that include tennis court, golf driving range, indoor and outdoor bar, swimming pool and Jacuzzi, fishing pond and more.

Shotguns

Estancia La Criolla counts with 30 Beretta and Benelli guns in caliber .410, 20, 28 and 12 gauges

Food & Wine

For many there is nothing better than selecting the finest produce and pairing it with the finest wine for an explosion and indulgence of the senses! Nowhere is this truer than in Argentina, where the Malbec is sublime and the beef like butter…

Book The Lodge Now

Feel free to contact us by contact to get more information.
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