Chile and Argentina both produce excellent wine. With smart travel planning, it is easy to organize a dual-country wine tour visit.
In recent decades, the South American countries of Chile and Argentina have both distinguished themselves as top producers of high-quality wines. The wine industry in both countries is still blossoming and continuing to gain international acclaim, making the region an ideal location to visit no matter if you are a practiced connoisseur or a just a simple wine fanatic. A tour of the wine regions also allows the opportunity to visit each country’s capital cities, Santiago and Buenos Aires, both of which will delight travelers with their cosmopolitanism.
This trip can be done in reverse, but an ideal starting point is Santiago, Chile. The city will impress you with its modern feel, delicious cuisine, and amazing Andes Mountain backdrop. From Santiago it is possible to detour to these mountains for skiing in the winter months. Otherwise, there is plenty to do within the city, including visits to landmarks like Santa Lucia Hill, tours of elegant colonial buildings and churches, and exploration of neighborhoods like Bellavista. San Cristobal Hill, a large park complex in the middle of the city, has excellent facilities for a day of relaxation.
A visit to the nearby coastal cities of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar can easily be arranged either as a day trip or an overnight stay. Valparaiso has a definite bohemian feel whereas the picturesque Viña del Mar typifies beachside bustle. One of the main attractions is the house of Pablo Neruda, a Chilean poet and Nobel Prize winner.
The standout wine producing region in Chile is the Elqui Valley, with its base in La Serena. This city is 8 hours north of Santiago by car, but can be reached much more easily by plane. It is a quaint, quiet town with beautiful colonial architecture, and its cuisine features fresh-caught seafood. The Elqui River runs through the valley, irrigating its numerous vineyards and the wineries host tastings.
The next stop is Mendoza, Argentina’s wine capital. The city center is filled with examples of colonial architecture, while the vineyards stretch out into the surrounding foothills. Mendoza’s wineries are open for wine tasting and demonstrations of wine-making techniques. Some also offer lunch and dinner options that showcase the best of each bodega’s wines. Treks and other adventure tours can be easily arranged from the city center.
The final stop is Buenos Aires, a city worth a stopover of a few nights. This Argentine capital city offers world-class dining options, a vibrant nightlife, and numerous attractions including football and polo matches, fine museums, and excellent shopping options. Tours and overnight stays at estancias offer a glimpse into Argentina’s rural culture.
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