Between the majestic peaks of the Andes in western Argentina and its tree-lined avenues, Mendoza is a must for travellers, inviting them to explore endlessly, between urban pleasures and wild escapes.
Capital of the province of the same name, Mendoza is the gateway to a region with a fascinating history. Its indigenous roots go back to the Huarpes, a tribe deeply linked to agriculture and fishing. In 1561, the Spanish explorer Pedro del Castillo founded Mendoza, then known as Nuevo Valle de Rioja. Few buildings from this period survive, as in 1861 an earthquake destroyed a large part of the city. This natural disaster left an indelible mark on the history of Mendoza, so much so that the Museo Área Fundacional focuses on the transformations that reshaped the city. A short distance away, visitors can explore the ruins of San Francisco church, with its remnants of colonial architecture, weathered walls and original altar.
No visit to Mendoza is complete without a stop at the Plaza Independencia, home to an elegant fountain with dancing waters. Above ground, it is a lively venue for street performances, while below, the Municipal Museum of Modern Art presents contemporary exhibitions by local and international artists. At night, Avenida Arístides Villanueva is the best place to soak up the city’s energy. This nightlife hotspot stretches for seven blocks and is packed with upmarket restaurants, craft cocktail bars, local breweries and boutiques.
Wine: excellence in the new world
Mendoza enjoys all four seasons, and the wide temperature range between day and night, combined with the diversity of soils, create an ideal environment for growing vines. So it’s hardly surprising that 70% of Argentina’s wine production comes from this region.
A visit to a vineyard is an ideal day trip, as most wineries are less than a two-hour drive from the city. In Maipú, Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, travellers can take part in wine tastings while learning about the process behind each bottle.
Wine culture is an integral part of Mendoza’s identity, and one of the most important events is the Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia (National Harvest Festival). Held every year at the end of February, this lively tradition celebrates the grape harvest with parades, concerts and folklore shows, while honouring the dedication of winegrowers.
Adrenalin and grandiose landscapes
Mendoza is home to South America’s highest mountain. Just a few hours from the city, Mount Aconcagua offers breathtaking scenery, best appreciated from the Laguna de los Horcones viewpoint. It’s worth pointing out that the park’s trails are of varying degrees of difficulty, for both climbing and trekking. For thrill-seekers, there is rafting on the Rio Mendoza and paragliding at Cerro del Arco, just 20 minutes from the town.
The town also offers an ideal setting in which to relax. The region’s natural hot springs, such as those at Cacheuta, where open-air thermal pools surrounded by mountain scenery create an idyllic setting.
Between tradition and culinary excellence
Discovering Mendoza’s gastronomy is an activity in itself, and it’s no coincidence that the famous Michelin Guide publishes a special edition on this region. Among the dishes not to be missed are the famous empanadas mendocinas, filled with minced beef, onions, hard-boiled eggs and olives, all wrapped in a crispy golden pastry. With the asado, more than just a meal, this slow-cooked barbecue is a much-loved ritual. A regional speciality is the chivito asado, where goat’s meat is grilled over a flame, simply seasoned with coarse salt, garlic and herbs, creating a rich and distinct flavour.
What to do after Mendoza?
For those wishing to extend their trip, Mendoza is the perfect place to continue exploring Argentina. Travellers can take the famous Ruta 40 to San Juan, where stargazing is an unforgettable experience.
Our article: The “Ruta 40”, a legendary route that will take you to the “end of the world”
The proximity of Chile also makes it easy to visit its capital, Santiago. On the way, it’s well worth stopping off at Cristo Redentor de los Andes, a monument symbolising peace and friendship between the two nations.
Our article: Santiago de Chile: the capital of a thousand faces
Mendoza is a city of resilience, a place where history, nature and culture intertwine. Whether it’s tasting a great wine, dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, embarking on a mountain adventure or strolling through streets rich in heritage, this destination promises new discoveries every day.
Photos: INPROTUR | Ciudad de Mendoza
