01/06/2006 - Argentina provides a new level of shooting and accommodation

Dan Reynolds returns from the Argentine and reports on a level of shooting and accommodation, which has reached new heights.

I have been to the Corboda region of Argentina in early May for the last four years, but this May was extra special. The Hayes brothers, our outfitters, situated near the town of Jesus Maria in the Cordoba province, have an uncanny knack of constantly improving their world-renowned dove shooting. Unlike most of the operators in the area, the Hayes brothers have a huge farming operation which gives them real control over the timing of their harvest and this is critical in ensuring reliable shooting.

The party that I accompanied had endless sporting birds from dawn until dusk or until tiredness got the better of them! That said, there is always a natural lull in the middle of the day in the Argentine autumn (our spring) but this gives the guns ample opportunity to enjoy a wonderful asado laid on by the Hayes staff. The quality of these lunches is exceptional with a superb array of bread, salads, quiches, sausages and steak.

My visit this time saw another huge improvement, as the party stayed in a magnificent new Estancia, El Colibri. Whilst the Hayes' lodges all enjoy great locations, friendly staff, excellent food and service, for those wanting the ultimate in Argentine luxury, the Estancia El Colibri is very special. Completed only a year ago, the Estancia is built on traditional lines but with an extremely high standard of furnishings. Our clients were really made to feel most at home and were royally entertained after shooting enjoying massages, polo practice and wine tasting all within the bounds of this secluded and extremely well appointed Estate. It also has the added bonus of being situated right in the middle of both the winter and summer shooting areas. I would thoroughly recommend this wonderful match of fantastic accommodation and some of the best in Worldwide Shooting.