Mendoza

Mendoza, located at the foot of the Andes, is famous for its exceptional wines, especially Malbec, grown in sunny, high-altitude vineyards like Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo. The region has over 1,200 wineries offering tours, tastings, and gourmet food experiences. Known as Argentina’s wine capital, Mendoza combines tradition and innovation in winemaking, attracting visitors from around the world. While the Andes provide a stunning backdrop, the true highlight is exploring vineyards, enjoying world-class wines, and experiencing the warm hospitality of the region’s winemakers.

The best time to visit Mendoza, is during the harvest season (March-April), when the vineyards are bustling with activity, and you can experience the famous wine harvest festivals. For pleasant weather, spring (October-November) and fall (March-May) are ideal, offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (December-February) can be hot, but it's great for outdoor activities like hiking and rafting. Winter (June-August) is perfect for those interested in skiing in the nearby Andes.

The city center of Mendoza is known for its beautiful parks, lively streets, and excellent gastronomy. At its heart lies Plaza Independencia, a relaxed spot perfect for unwinding, watching street artists, and exploring local markets.

For food, coffee, and drinks, head to the vibrant Avenida Arístides Villanueva, a lively street lined with cozy cafés, bars, and restaurants where you can savor local wines and delicious Argentine cuisine.

Craving more nature? Parque General San Martín, Mendoza’s largest and most stunning park, boasts lush gardens, scenic walking trails, and a small lake. It also offers breathtaking views of the Andes, a charming rose garden, and iconic landmarks like its grand entrance gates and the mountain behind the park, Cerro de la Gloria.

Alamo Hostel is worth a visit, spacious and clean private rooms, fun backyard to relax at! (2 last photos)

Around Mendoza

Escape the hustle and bustle of Mendoza and unwind in Chacras de Coria, a charming town just 20 minutes south of downtown. Surrounded by vineyards, it’s the perfect place to relax, with cozy accommodations, local wineries, and delicious Argentine cuisine.

Rent a bike to explore the area, ride through scenic vineyards, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Andes. With its blend of nature, tranquility, and adventure, Chacras de Coria offers an unforgettable getaway in Mendoza’s wine country.

We visited some wineries with our rental bikes from in and around Luján de Cuyo, located right next to Chacras de Coria and these are our favorites:

  • Bodega Viamonte is a renowned winery known for producing high-quality wines, particularly Malbec. The winery offers a unique experience with its beautiful vineyards, modern facilities, and commitment to sustainable practices. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours, and explore the rich winemaking tradition of Mendoza. This one was our personal favourite. 

  • Bodega Kaiken is renowned for its premium wines, especially its exceptional Malbec. The winery masterfully blends traditional winemaking with modern techniques, creating bold, flavorful wines. Visitors can tour the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy tastings while soaking in breathtaking views of the Andes.

    What truly sets this place apart is its charming setup for food and drinks—tables are placed beneath lush grapevines, providing natural shade and a cozy, intimate atmosphere. It’s a detail that adds so much to the experience! Highly recommend a visit! 

  • Clos de Chacras is a renowned winery and restaurant located in the heart of Chacras de Coria. Known for its elegant wines, especially Malbec, the estate combines tradition with innovation. The winery offers guided tours of its vineyards and cellars, while the on-site restaurant serves gourmet dishes paired with their wines, offering a memorable dining experience. The charming setting, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and the Andes mountains, makes it a perfect destination for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike. This one of the oldest wineries in the area. 

  • Rincón Gieco is a cozy restaurant and lunch bar situated on the grounds of Bodega Gieco. If you're on a bike tour and in need of a well-deserved break, this is the perfect stop. At the back of the restaurant, you'll find a peaceful seating area, away from the bustle of the street. Beyond this area, there's a lovely platform where you can relax with food and drinks while taking in stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. It's an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the scenery—highly recommended!

There is a small rental bike shop called Baccus Wine Tours Bike, located in Chacras de Coria. Try to book a bike one day in advance.

For accommodation I can really recommend El Encuentro Posada Boutique in Chacras de Coria. This charming family owned boutique hotel combines elegant design with personalized service. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a beautiful garden, and easy access to nearby wineries. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful and luxurious getaway. One of the best stays we had in Argentina.

They will give you a discount if you book through whatsapp instead of Booking.com