Mendoza

Wine Country. That is Mendoza, Argentina, with its world-class wineries and vineyards which set themselves apart from other vineyards in that they share their wine making secrets with the rest of the world. Mendoza is located at Argentina’s Cuyo region, and is the heart of the wine harvest festival which starts in various locations around the province, only to culminate in a grand celebration in Mendoza. Festivals are characterized by blessings and ceremonies, crowning of the annual festival kings and queens, sports events and of course, lots of wine drinking and merry making.

Mendoza’s festivals showcase the best of the seasons’ harvest, most of which are held during the summer. Despite the heat and humidity that often rises in warm weather, Mendoza still is an attractive tourist destination come festival season, with its tree-lined streets and fountains in the plaza to make visitors feel cool and fresh all day long.

Aside from the festivals, Mendoza also boasts of other attractions. Visitors can get to know the region’s history with a visit to the Museo Popular Callejero, while those looking for an adrenaline rush can climb Cerro Aconcagua, the highest peak in South America. Successful climbers can revel in their accomplishment by taking stunning pictures of the view below, especially from Laguna Horcones. Marvel at the Puente del Inca, a natural stone bridge which is one of Argentina’s most popular natural attractions, or spend a quiet moment of reflection at the Cementerio de Los Andinistas, the cemetery which holds the remains of people of all nationalities.

Aside from wine tastings and vineyard lunches, Mendoza also offers year-round sports activities such as skiing, horseback riding, climbing, hiking and paragliding, fishing, and wildlife excursions.

No visa is required from Americans and Canadians to enter Argentina and getting from one destination to another can be made easier by renting a car from one of the many international or local car rental companies in the region. Trolley buses and taxis are other transportation alternatives.