Mendoza

Mendoza is rich in a large number of museums and interesting sites. Although it cannot compete with Buenos Aires, it’s far from being devoid of charm and demonstrates great cultural dynamism.

Mendoza, in the Cuyo region, is of course the capital of the Argentine vineyard, but it’s above all the province of the same name which is full of natural sites, in the heart of the Andes and close to the border of Chile. It’s in this region that the highest peaks of the Andes are located. Among them, the roof of the Americas, Aconcagua, which is close to 7,000 meters! (6,962 meters above sea level exactly). It’s also the ideal starting point for discovering many little-visited national parks.

The riches of Mendoza

Not far from Mendoza, the Inca Bridge “Puente del Inca”, located at an altitude of 2,720 meters, this superb rock arch owes its color to the mineral deposits of the hot springs which bubble below. A few kilometers higher, we discover the most impressive panorama of the entire excursion. The rock wall is interrupted momentarily and, looking through this gap towards the right of the valley, we see the imposing Aconcagua mountain rising!

But the region is ideal for wine tasting and exploring the wineries “bodegas” of Mendoza. With an average yield of 20 million hectoliters per year, Argentina is the 4th largest wine producer in the world and is making giant strides. Near Mendoza, there are nearly 1,200 wineries (the best known being Luiggi Bosca, Norton, Flishman, etc.). You will be able to appreciate the different varieties of grape varieties (Malbec, Sirah, etc.).

The prettiest area for me is the Uco valley, to go see the “Salentein” winery, with the Andes Mountains and the Tupungato volcano in the background, for example. Also worth discovering: the “La Azul” winery, where the owner Shirley Hinojosa will welcome you, with tastings on the menu of course around a sumptuous meal to accompany these wines.

Come and discover Mendoza!