Mendoza and its surrounding Valleys are the epicentre of Argentina’s celebrated and prized vineyards with its Mediterranean style climate and unique terroir, nestling up towards the foothills of the Andes. Mendoza’s climate, soil and irrigation make the area ideal for many grape varieties, with the main harvest taking place between February and March. Malbec grape production does of course dominate here, although you will find some growers experimenting with other varietals too, from Bonarda to Torrontes and Semillon. Explore the many boutique wineries and vineyards here as you will find some real surprises. And Mendoza itself has a great deal to offer: the city flourishes with delightful parks, innovative restaurants and bars in the historic centre.

A small lodge between the city and the main wine valleys could be the best of both worlds if you prefer more independent exploration. The surrounding mountains and valleys just out of the city are a draw for action seekers: horseback riding through peaceful valleys, rafting in the rushing waters of the Río Mendoza, cycling through the vineyards or even climbing Mount Aconcagua, the continent’s highest peak. You may choose to stay among the vines in a stylish lodge where you could also get involved in the grape-harvesting at harvest time. Or just relax in the sunny climate with a delicious picnic and glass of wine. Wine aficionados can combine their stay in Mendoza with a road trip across the Andes to Santiago de Chile and its surrounding Wine Valleys of Maipo, Casablanca and Colchagua.