Locations Mendoza

Mendoza is the wine capital of Argentina, where some of the best South American wines are produced. Located in the foothills of the Central Andes, a few hours drive from the border with Chile, the area is dry and arid; perfect for growing grapes and olives.

The city itself is extremely attractive with tree-lined streets and leafy plazas, and there’s plenty to keep you entertained including outdoor cafes and handicraft markets, the peaceful Parque San Martin and some of Argentina’s finest restaurants. But the main attraction of Mendoza is the surrounding countryside, a short distance outside of the city, where you will discover miles upon miles of vineyards aligning the roads in all directions.

A visit to the vineyards – locally known as bodegas is essential if you’re heading to Mendoza and we can arrange a full day wine tour of the Luyan de Cuyo and Uco Valley regions, either as a private tour or with a small group. Throughout the day you will visit approximately 4 bodegas. You will learn about the various types of grapes and the fermentation process, whilst being shown around the different parts of the bodega where each stage takes place.  You will also have a chance to taste a variety of wines, which for the majority of us is the most enjoyable part of the day, as well as tucking into a 4 course gourmet lunch accompanied by a selection of wines to suit the food served. To allow you to enjoy such trips to the full, transfers throughout the day are of course included!

"Just wanted to say that the wine tour today was great.  We toured three wineries and then had lunch in the fourth - a fantastic 5 course meal with 7 different wines.
I particularly enjoyed the visit to a small family-run boutique winery.  We did a barrel tasting there and it was very interesting to see the comparison between this and the large winery (Alta Vista).   The wine there was delicious and as I type this I am waiting for half a case to be delivered to my hotel!" (Janet, Colorado, USA)

If a guided tour is not for you and you would prefer to visit the bodegas on your own, it is possible to hire bikes for the day and head off to the Maipu region, map in hand.  Biking along tree-lined roads, often in view of the snow-capped mountains of the Central Andes in the distance, it is such a fun day out. 

"A real highlight my trip - the bikes and wine tour was fantastic. I loved soaking up the bright dazzling sunshine and stunning scenery while cruising around freely by bike. Stopping off at different vineyards and sampling the most delicious wine along the way was magical, just be careful not too get too wobbly on your way back!" (Lucy, Kent)

But Mendoza is not just about the wines.  There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in the area and if you have time we recommend hiring a car and heading off towards the mountains, the highlight being Cerro Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Americas at an altitude of 6962m. From the entrance to the National Park it is possible to walk up towards the base camp for some really fantastic views.  It is also worth a stop at the fascinating Puente del Inca, a natural formation that serves as a passage to the Rio Cuevas. The area is also known for its thermal springs.

Who should go?

It goes without saying that those who like wine should visit Mendoza. But it is also somewhere for those who prefer warm, dry climates and would like a few days of sunshine.  You can spend your time in the city centre or the peaceful setting of the countryside, so it is the perfect place for both romantic getaways or solo travellers and groups of friends.

Accommodation

In order to get the most out of your stay in Mendoza we suggest spending a couple of nights in a wine lodge or guesthouse in the countryside, a short drive from the city. Situated in a tranquil environment, the majority of these lodges have swimming pools and gardens so you can completely unwind and relax in the sun whilst enjoying a glass of Malbec!

Accommodation in the city centre is varied and we can arrange for you stay in boutique hotels or intimate bed & breakfasts in peaceful neighbourhoods yet close to the action.