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Mendoza’s Modern Retreat for Wine, Food and Outdoor Aficionados

vines resort spa

Photo Credit: The Vines Resort and Spa

In Argentina, it’s the start of Autumn, which means it’s harvest time at the foot of the Andes in Mendoza’s wine country. The Vines Resort & Spa is Mendoza’s ultimate retreat for wine and food lovers and outdoor aficionados. After landing at Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (Mendoza International Airport), The Vines Resort & Spa is a ninety-minute drive south from the city of Mendoza and located in the in the heart of Argentina’s up-and-coming wine growing sub-region, Uco Valley.

The resort sits on 1,500 acres of private vineyard estates, and at every turn, you’re surrounded by breathtaking views of the snowcapped Andes Mountains. All 22 private one- and two-bedroom villas feature fully equipped kitchenettes (not that you’ll have to lift a finger preparing food if you don’t want to), spa-like bathrooms with beautiful natural stone elements, uber-chic interiors (you’ll want to take home every throw and decorative ornament that isn’t nailed down) and private decks with super comfortable lounge seating. It doesn’t hurt that the villas also come with rooftop terraces, indoor and outdoor fireplaces and an outdoor shower, tub or plunge pool.

vines resort spa
Photo Credit: The Vines Resort and Spa

The Vines welcomes its guests to experience the region’s natural rustic beauty and the warm delights of the Argentine culture. Topping this list is enjoying the local Malbec. During the day, guests can experience wine-therapy massage treatments in house at the spa or take in the region’s award-winning wineries (both options are a win). If you chose to leave the comforts of the property and explore the Uco Valley or the neighboring Lujan de Cuyo region, The Vines can arrange for a driver, where you can do a half or full day tour of the area’s local vineyards.

Be sure to check out O. Fournier for its breathtaking architecture and excellent lunch in their glass enclosed restaurant. If you’re fortunate enough, the property’s owner Jose Manuel Ortega Gil-Fournier and his wife Nadia Haron (the executive chef) will be on hand to delight you in conversation about their worldly travels and history of the property. Other noteworthy vineyards include Corazón del Sol, Clos de los Siete and Gimenez Rilli.

o. fournier
Photo Credit: O. Fournier

Although wine is the cornerstone for visiting Mendoza, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to counteract the effects of one too many glasses of wine. Explore the local countryside on horseback led by a gaucho, trek the Andes and step foot onto neighboring Chile or enjoy the The Vines’ climbing wall, running trails and a gym that overlooks the vineyards. There’s definitely something for everyone to get the blood in your veins pumping!

After putting in a hard day’s work, be sure to enjoy a dip in The Vines’ infinity pool and Jacuzzi nestled at the foot of the vineyard. Before you know it, the sun will be setting and it’s time for dinner at the acclaimed Siete Fuegos by Francis Mallmann – the Argentinian Thomas Keller. Siete Fuegos incorporates Mallman’s open-flame culinary techniques (seven different fires will cook your meal… hence the restaurant’s name) and uses organic and local ingredients to weave together a wonderful dining experience with remarkable wine pairings.

vines resort spa
Photo Credit: The Vines Resort and Spa

For those who fall in love with the surroundings, The Vines sells small plots of land to amateur oenophiles. Don’t know where to begin bottling your own blend? No need to worry! An in-house wine consultant can help you develop your own vintage. This will certainly give you a reason to come back to this region time and time again. Rates begin at $500 a night which includes a bottle of wine and in-room snacks.

Whitney Spielfogel

Whitney Spielfogel is a guru in influencer marketing and public relations with experience working for popular lifestyle brands. Throughout the course of her career, she has worked for leading media companies including Z100 Radio, ABC TV, Viacom and Conde Nast Publications. Whitney currently lives in New York City where she enjoys spending time with her husband Ross and children Sienna and Slade, s...(Read More)

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