Uber Uco

Mendoza’s wondrous wine region has much to recommend it: gorgeous towns with lovely, leafy plazas, marvellous Malbecs, delectable dining, and terrific places to stay. All this and we haven’t even mentioned the Andes, which stretch dramatically in the distance, an impressive backdrop and a useful orientation device.

The Uco Valley in the Mendoza region has been busy putting itself on the international map with some excellent bodegas and equally brilliant hotels. Two new properties in particular (which I had the good fortune to visit on my recent trip) are definitely worth your time.

The Vines Resort & Spa is an incredible new option in the region, with one of the most fabulous views from a gym, possibly ever. The gym stands alone in the middle of the vineyard and looks upon the Andes spine, so you can work out whilst sightseeing; it’s not only time-saving but motivating to get you in shape for that next hike. The Vines also boasts one of the best restaurants around in Francis Mallman’s Siete Fuegos, and the views from the villas are spectacular.

For another great choice, check out the architecturally impressive Casa de Uco, just a 30 minute drive from The Vines. Again you experience that stunning Andean, view plus vineyards in which to grab a horse and go off on a ride. Looking for something a little less active? Have a meal out in the middle of the grapes. Casa de Uco’s bar looks over the mountains, so you can imbibe a glass of the red stuff as you watch the sun go down on the valley.

Both hotels offer bikes to have a ride around the fields, or out onto the lone road that slopes up into the Andean Range. Don’t forget to try nearby local restaurants Alpasion and Finca Blousson; there’s always time for more red wine with a side of mountain views in Mendoza.

Anton is our Latin America guru based in not-so-mountainous London. He visits Argentina whenever possible to make sure the local grapes are still up to snuff.