Located in northern Argentina, the Salta Wine trail is one of the most stunning in the world, combining majestic natural landscapes with a renowned winemaking tradition. The journey into Salta’s Calchaquí Valleys reveals a world of incredible terrains and unique flavours.
Cafayate, the heart of the region’s wine scene, is found at the southern end of the Calchaquí Valleys, a three-hour drive from the city of Salta. But there’s no need to bring entertainment for the trip: along the way, the Quebrada de las Conchas (Gorge of Shells) nature reserve unfolds in a mesmerising series of ancient rock formations – including the famous Garganta del Diablo and Anfiteatro – in a sumptuous array of browns, reds, yellows and purples.
The charming town of Cafayate is famous for its vineyards set at between 1,580m and 2,100m elevation. Local wineries Vasija Secreta, El Esteco and El Porvenir de Cafayate are all eager to share the history of Calchaquí wines with their guests. Just northwest of the town, the Yacochuya area is home to the family-run Domingo Molina, today operated by brothers Osvaldo, Gabriel and Rafael, and Bodega Yacochuya, owned by the Etchart winemaking family. Further south, the town of Tolombón is home to noted producers such as Estancia Los Cardones and Bodega Tukma.
Adventurous wine lovers can journey high into the Andes. Credit: Amalaya Wine Bar
The adventure then continues north towards Molinos and Cachi along the legendary Route 40. Traversing the high-altitude valleys at over 2,380m, this road takes you through the otherworldly lunar landscapes of Quebrada de las Flechas and on to the renowned wineries Bodega Colomé and Bodega Tacuil. Cachi, a quiet rural town that forms a key stop on the Salta Wine Trail, with its picturesque whitewashed architecture and small producers such as Puna and Miraluna, is the perfect place to rest and relax before setting out on the return journey.
The descent down the winding mountain ridge of Cuesta del Obispo and through Los Cardones National Park rounds off the trip with breathtaking panoramic views.
All in all, the Salta Wine Trail offers much more than delicious wines: it’s an opportunity to discover a different pace of life, a vibrant culture and a unique natural landscape.
Along the Salta Wine Trail you’ll find wineries that offer top-class accommodation in addition to exquisite tastings, fascinating tours and excellent restaurant options.
Where to stay
Patios de Cafayate – Bodega El Esteco
At the entrance to the town of Cafayate, Bodega El Esteco and Patios de Cafayate combine history and luxury in an atmospheric building that dates back to 1892. The boutique hotel has its own restaurant, Patios, run by local chef Virginia Marín, who creates gastronomic experiences focusing on the produce and flavours of northern Argentina.
El Porvenir Wine Lodge
This charming wine hotel outside Cafayate has modern lodges overlooking the vineyards as well as comfortable rooms in the main house. The restaurant, Pausa, serves dishes specially designed to pair perfectly with the winery’s bottlings, making for a complete experience that celebrates the soul of Cafayate.
Cosy dining at El Porvenir Wine Lodge. Credit: El Porvenir Wine Lodge
Piattelli Wine Resort
Those looking to relax in world-class luxury need look no further than Piattelli Wine Resort, situated just north of Cafayate. Located near the famed winery, the resort has 20 cabins with a private jacuzzi, spa, gym, swimming pools and the exclusive Aura restaurant, offering sophisticated service in a breathtaking mountain setting.
Piatelli Wine Resort’s luxurious pool. Credit: Piatelli Wine Resort
Hotel Finca El Recreo
Owned by the Lavaque family, this historic 19th-century mansion in Cafayate has 12 well-appointed rooms, as well as a swimming pool in idyllic surroundings at the foot of the mountain. Finca El Recreo guaranteesa restful taste of village life among its hundred-year old vineyards.
Altalaluna Boutique…
Source : https://www.decanter.com/sponsored/discover-the-salta-wine-trail-549436/
