Into Argentina

One of the main items on our wish list was to cross by bus through the Andes to Argentina and Nic had carefully booked prime front row seats in preparation for the glorious views. After an early start and much anticipation, less than a mile out of Santiago the bus turned back: unseasonable snow had blocked the passes! We found ourselves back at the chaotic bus terminal at midday with no information or wifi and with four nights of hotels prebooked in Mendoza." When was the next bus ? ", we asked ; " maybe three days "they said . So, an  immediate taxi to the airport to book two of the last remaining seats on the afternoon flight to Mendoza at eye watering cost. But we got there; and in marked contrast to Santiago, it was hot!

Mendoza is quite attractive, very much low rise (because of the  awful earthquake history) but there is not a great deal to see as we discovered on a dire open bus tour. However, the main square, Plaza Independencia was really lively for the weekend, bizarrely with a Germano/Swiss festival in full swing with stalls selling Apfel strudel next to others with great asados of whole lamb and massive pieces of steak complete with a German choir singing in the background.

We were then off to stay at Posada Salentein, a one and a half hours drive south of the city, with the snow capped Andes to our right.

It was a beautiful Sunday morning and we came across a large group of the locals out for their Sunday morning hack,all ages,all kinds of tack and a complete range of horse flesh, swigging down chilled cerveza.

not sure if I want my photo taken by this gringo !

Well, ok then...

When's the off then ?

The Posado Salentein is linked to the Salentein Winery where a astonishing amount of investment has created some amazing structures and wine making capacity. The tour and tastings and Posada food were terrific with a pool and walks and cycles to work off some of the calories.

Doesn't every cellar have a grand piano ?

post wine tasting !

View from our Posada

We also visited for lunch and the Azul Bodega, rustic and  the only locally owned bodega in the valley where  we had the opportunity of tasting wine from the barrel.