If you were crafting the perfect destination — where rugged adventures collide with refined luxury — you might dream up a place like Mendoza. Here, in the foothills of the Andes, you can climb the tallest peak in South America, taste world-class wines, dine under the stars on fire-roasted meats, and relax at elegant vineyard estates. But this isn’t a fantasy — it’s Mendoza, Argentina’s beloved wine capital, where every experience seems lifted from the pages of an explorer’s diary.
The Gateway to the Andes
Mendoza, founded in 1561, sits at the western edge of Argentina and acts as a natural bridge to the Andes. The city itself is charming and relaxed, but it’s what surrounds it that stirs the soul. With over 1,200 vineyards — twice as many as Napa Valley — and nearly 95 percent of Argentina’s wine production, it’s a vinicultural powerhouse that also offers outdoor thrills and cultural richness.
Arriving in Style
The best way to arrive is via Santiago, Chile. A daytime 35-minute flight offers breathtaking views of jagged peaks and snow-covered ridgelines. Alternatively, fly in from Buenos Aires for a quick and easy hop.
Into the Mountains: Trekking Aconcagua
Adventurers can aim high — literally — with treks through Parque Provincial Aconcagua. This protected wilderness surrounds the 22,841-foot Aconcagua, the tallest mountain outside of Asia. While climbing to the summit is a multi-week challenge, many visitors opt for the three-day hike to Plaza Francia, which offers dramatic views of the mountain’s south face.
Grajales Expeditions and a Guide Named Mauricio
Our group chose Grajales Expeditions and guide Mauricio Fernandez, a seasoned expert who has reached Aconcagua’s summit over 50 times. The trek began at Horcones and took us through rocky trails, microclimates, and soaring elevation changes. At 13,800 feet, we camped under stars, drank local malbec, and gained a deeper appreciation for the mountain’s mythic pull.
Vineyard Escapes and Luxurious Stays
Back in Mendoza proper, wine and comfort reign supreme. One of the most beloved properties is Cavas Wine Lodge, a Relais & Châteaux hotel nestled among vines in Luján de Cuyo. With just 17 private rooms, a serene spa, and gourmet dining led by chef Hernan Zavaleta, Cavas epitomizes the Mendoza blend of nature and elegance.
Exploring Beyond the Glass
- Visit Lagarde for a fresh, seasonal meal at Fogon, where the female-led team reimagines Argentine tradition with Italian influence.
- Dine at 1884 Francis Mallman for a meal steeped in fire and flavor, created by the renowned chef himself.
- Drop by La Gloria in Chacras de Coria for a local favorite that delivers charm and creativity.
Where to Sip: Mendoza’s Must-Visit Wineries
Choosing which vineyards to explore can be overwhelming, but you can’t go wrong. Highlights include:
- Benegas — With roots dating back to 1883, Federico Benegas Lynch continues the legacy with high-altitude vineyards and historical blends.
- Kaiken, Terrazas de los Andes, Zuccardi, Alta Vista, and the boutique gem Caelum.
The Southern Spark: Tupungato and Vines of Mendoza
South of Luján, the region of Tupungato offers sweeping views and some of the most ambitious wine projects around. Chief among them is Vines of Mendoza, a sprawling estate born of a dream — and now home to winemakers from around the globe. With restaurants like Siete Fuegos and La Huella, plus eight wineries and 14 tasting rooms, it’s a self-contained wine lover’s paradise.
Lessons from the Vines
Wine director Mariana Onofri believes terroir is everything. “Even grapes grown near each other create different wines,” she says. And forget rigid pairings — mood, music, and weather matter just as much.
Final Thoughts: The Mendoza Way
Whether you spend your days climbing peaks or savoring malbec beneath a vineyard pergola, Mendoza delivers unmatched contrast. It’s a place where effort meets reward — where stillness and movement, fire and wine, come together in harmony. Visit once, and you might just return again and again. Or perhaps, like the author, you’ll find yourself becoming an accidental winemaker.
