Famed for its sunny climate, world-class restaurants and superior quality wine, Mendoza is a province that is made for the cultured traveler. Lined with the towering Andes Mountains on the west, this region is also the perfect base for anyone who loves the outdoors. Enjoy soul-soothing scenery, romantic sunsets and awe-inspiring hikes. Then finish off your day with the best Argentinian cuisine around. From the best steakhouses and grills to wine bars with timeless character, a luxurious culinary journey goes hand in hand with a holiday to Mendoza.

The city of Mendoza, the region’s main community, is a charming hub of art, theatre and European style coffee shops. This is a place where café culture thrives, and tango feels like second nature. And everything from spas and wine tasting experiences are available for those who are looking to indulge.

Where to Visit in Mendoza

The capital of the province is the homonymous city of Mendoza, and it’s the best place to start your wine tour around the region. Within this exciting world of Malbec and barbecued meats, there’s so much to see, do, and eat. If you’re interested in sampling Argentinian nightlife, save your energy during the early evening. Locals don’t tend to come out until after midnight, so you’ll have plenty of time to digest your dinner and watch the world go by.

But make sure you go beyond the main city if you want to experience the region in all its glory. The small town of Chacras de Coria oozes old world charm and offers a stunning colonial backdrop for cycling trips. Another great area for getting behind the handle bars is the Uco Valley, biking from Tunuyan to Tupungato with gorgeous views and easy roads.

Within the central valley, there are plenty of opportunities for wine tasting and culinary tours. And you won’t be disappointed if you’re planning to fit in a round of golf either. We can combine a golfing day with exclusive winery experiences to make your holiday truly memorable. Other activities include horseback riding, art workshops, stargazing, and much more.

When to Go in Mendoza

Mendoza’s long days of sunshine mean that you can visit at any time of year and still fit in plenty of outdoor activities. The summer season (December to March) can be very hot, with temperatures as high as 104°F (40°C) on extreme days. Spring (September to November) and fall (March to June) promise mild and pleasant weather, making it ideal for hiking, cycling and other sports.

For wine fans, October through April are considered the best months to go. This period takes you from planting season all the way through to the harvest. During this time, you can expect wineries to be at their busiest. If you prefer to beat the crowds, it could be better to travel in the off season or shoulder season. Winter (June to September) is pruning season at the vineyards. It is the driest and sunniest time of year, with chilly nights and later sunrises.

Wine in Mendoza

Mendoza is Argentina’s quintessential wine province and Malbec is the region's most important grape variety. The wine that is produced here is often bold and intensely flavored, with great ageing potential in the more structured and racy varieties. Other varieties are known for their dark fruit flavors or their chocolatey, oaky finishes. And the very best Malbecs are almost always hand harvested in this region.

The higher quality wines can handle cellar aging, making them a great investment. The sub-regions of the Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo are known for producing the best of the best, but over the years San Raphael has been showing potential as an up-and-coming area to watch.

What’s attractive is that overpriced wine is practically non-existent, and travelers can rest assured that every bottle is worth the price tag. While some outliers do slip the net, there are generally three quality tiers to look for. Low-priced wines are always good, mid-priced wines are excellent, and high-priced wines are truly exceptional. This pricing structure holds true across the region and for most parts of the country.

On the other end of the spectrum to the famous reds are specialist wineries that produce Champenoise method sparkling, and we can arrange exclusive visits with hands-on wine-making activities for our guests.

Where to Stay in Mendoza

Stay in the city of Mendoza and you will have access to some of the region’s top restaurants and nightlife scenes. There’s a great selection of luxury hotels or boutique hotels, situated close to all the central amenities and attractions.

Venture out of the city if you prefer breathtaking views overlooking vineyards. We can help you find luxury accommodation ranging from stylish lodges to award-winning spas. Our featured Alpasión Lodge has been furnished to perfection and has enough room for large families or groups, while the Entre Cielos Wine Hotel boasts a sumptuous Hamam spa, spectacular gardens, and floor-to-ceiling windows for views of the surrounding Andes.

Places to Eat and Drink in Mendoza

Like the rest of Argentina, Mendoza has a rich and varied culinary narrative, with specialties ranging from barbecued meats and sausages to soups and stews. Whether you grab a bite from a food truck or book a table at one of the region’s top restaurants, you’ll find the food to be delicious and filling.

Argentinian delicacies such as Asado, Cantimpalo sausage, and empanadas are of course present everywhere you go. But as the fine dining scene develops across Mendoza, the province is able to bring international fusion and top-notch wine pairing to the table.

Restaurants like Espacio Trapiche, a modern winery restaurant, combine contemporary excellence with a premium wine list. While Alpasión Lodge in the Uco Valley celebrates traditional Argentinian cuisine with a gourmet touch. Whether you dine nouveau or classic, you simply won’t be disappointed.

Wine Paths creates customized travel packages to help discerning travelers experience luxury in Mendoza, with outstanding food and drink experiences and plenty of sightseeing. To learn more about this stunning wine region, turn to our Argentina travel expert Jorge.