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Published: 02-04-2022
Mendoza is one of the most visited cities in Argentina after Buenos Aires. This incredible city is famous for its divine wine region at the foot of the imposing Andes Mountains. Mendoza is perfect for all kinds of travellers; couples, families, backpackers and solo travellers. Here are just some of the activities available on your visit to Mendoza.
Mendocino Vineyard
Bodega Trapiche
Found in the Maipu Valley, The Trapiche Bodega and Vineyard is one of the better-known vineyards in in Mendoza. The competition for the best bodega is a hard fought one, but Trapiche has to be up there. Since its foundation in 1883, this bodega has been at the forefront of innovation and exportation of its delicious masterpiece. While the vineyards big stone winery and buildings may have an industrial feel, The Trapiche Bodega uses ultra-modern technologies to produce its delectable wines.
Trapiche Bodega
Aconcagua
South America’s highest mountain can be found in Mendoza, right on the Argentinian-Chilean border. Although you don’t need to be an expert climber to reach the peak of this mountain, some experience helps if you want to climb the dizzier heights of this magnificent mountain. If you fancy the climb to Camp 2 on the standard route, you can usually witness a stunning Andean sunset on a clear evening.
Aconcagua, cheese and wine
Bodegas Salentein
Less than an hour’s drive from Mendoza, The Bodegas Salentein has established itself a wonderful reputation. The modern, low-lying, winery is almost camouflaged within the surrounding scenery and inside, the stainless-steel decor and a glass elevator complete the modern feel. The wines at this bodega use many different grape varieties as well as the Mendocino classic, Malbec. The top-end Gran Uco Blend of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon are delicious and aromatic and the young Portillo Chardonnay is crisp and refreshing. Whatever your favourite tipple, there is a variety for you!
Bodegas Salentein
Bike Tour around the Vineyards
Cycling around these exquisite vineyards of the wine valleys of Mendoza is one of the must-do´s on a visit to Mendoza. There are many spots to rent a bike in the city or the valleys, and is a wonderful way to spend a day sampling wines from the variety of bodegas. Make sure to stay hydrated and bring sunscreen, as you will be pretty exposed as you navigate your way around Mendoza’s valleys and try not to fall off your trusty wheels, after a hard day’s wine-tasting!
Cycling the vineyards
Rafting on the Mendoza River
Although Mendoza is famous for its wine region, there are also plenty of adventure activities to enjoy for those who are looking for something a bit more energetic. The Mendoza River provides an irrigation system for the vineyards and is a great place to go river rafting. Head out on the rapids with an experienced guide along the river for an adrenalin-filled experience at the base of The Andes.
Hiking by the Mendoza River
Lunch at Familia Zuccardi
The Familia Zuccardi’s Vineyard is one of the most famous in Mendoza, making it almost legendary. The winery of course produces wine, but also famous for its olive oil, which appears in restaurants all over Argentina. This extensive bodega is a wonderful lunch spot where you can sample some of Mendoza’s best wines in a luxurious setting and with an Andean backdrop, offering stunning views.
Familia Zuccardi’s Vineyard
Cachueta Thermal Springs
For anyone looking for relaxation on their travels, the Cachueta thermal springs are a perfect option. Found in an incredible setting nestled in the mountains, these thermal springs provide excellent respite from the unforgiving summer sun. The springs also offer a health spa and a water park for little ones. These springs have healing properties due to the minerals in the water and its stunning location means that you cannot help but relax.
Thermal Springs, Mendoza
Parque San Martin
An essential visit on your stay in Mendoza, is the Parque San Martin. This massive urban oasis was designed by the landscape architect Carlos Thays, in the late 1800s, and offers respite from the city. The park features 34 sculptures and a picturesque lake, perfect for a picnic or you can wander around the rose garden with your preferred person, this natural haven in the city has a lot to offer.
Parque San Martin
Sunset Horse Ride
A popular evening activity in Mendoza is to head out on horseback, through the foothills of the Andes. You can traverse dusty hillsides and low vegetation as the sun is setting. Reminiscent of the Wild West, the remoteness of this particular area is the perfect way to end the day and at the end of your horse ride, there is an Argentinian asado, waiting accompanied by locally produced Malbec.
Wine Tasting at Catena Zapata
The signature activity in Mendoza is of course, wine tasting. These can be done independently or by just showing up at a winery and asking to sample their wines. However, one of the best experiences to be had is an in-depth tasting and day-long tour where you learn about wine and learn all about the vineyard at Catena Zapata.
Vineyard and The Andes
Visit an olive grove
Mendoza of course is renowned for its wines however the area is locally famous for producing olives and olive oil. The Maipu valley has many olive groves and factories where olive oil, balsamic vinegar and other products can be purchased. This is a great opportunity to bring back some tasty souvenirs from Mendoza.
Olive tree plantation
Skiing in Penitentes
Bariloche may be the most famous area for skiing in Argentina, however, Mendoza also has its own ski resort at Penitentes. The slopes here are perfect for hiking and trekking in the summer, when there is no snow, so Penitentes is the perfect all year-round place to visit.
