By: Rosemary Warmenhoven
I left for Argentina feeling somewhat ambivalent about the destination. I returned from Argentina feeling really excited about such an interesting and worthwhile destination! I visited Buenos Aires, the Bariloche Lake District and the wine region outside Mendoza.
Buenos Aires oozes culture, history and passion. It’s a very stylish city with many talented local artists, chefs and designers. The top-hatted doormen at Alvear Palace are almost as legendary as the hotel itself. In addition to your private tango lesson, consider a day excursion out to the Tigre Delta. You’ll love the juxtaposition of the city and the Delta.
The lakes and mountains surrounding San Carlos di Bariloche offer year round options for outdoor fun. I stayed at Llao Llao resort which has been open since 1940. Families come here year after year. When I was there, I met a fascinating man who was doing research on the Andean Condors. You can hike, ride bikes or horses, fish, swim, ski, sled or skate depending on the time of the year. The Cerro Otto cable lift rises up 4600 feet for a spectacular 360 view. Don’t miss it.
I stayed in Mendoza, which does have some really great restaurants, but otherwise serves as a gateway to the famous wine region. The drive is approximately 1 hour and along the way you’ll see the spine of the Andes off in the distance. (One of my favorite pictures from the trip is of that incredible view.) Wine makers are passionate in Argentina. Lucky for the rest of us! And, what’s wine without food? Francis Mallmann, one of Argentina’s best chefs, offers his Siete Fuegos or “seven fires” culinary experience at The Vines Resort & Spa.
Go visit Argentina! You won’t regret it.