We would travel the route to Uspallata slowly, enjoying the scenery on one side and taking reasonable care on the other, as it is a road with a lot of truck traffic.

We did this route on our own by car, but if you prefer, you can take the high-mountain route on an excursion from Mendoza.

Cacheuta and Potrerillos

But today, first things first, Potrerillos awaited us, along the way the Cacheuta Bridge and the hot springs.

We take Route 82 and before reaching Potrerillos we find the Cacheuta Hot Springs and the suspension bridge.

These hot springs are located in the heart of the mountain range, less than an hour from the city of Mendoza, and the first thing that strikes you is the surroundings: mountains, river, and fresh air. The water comes directly from the mountains, hot and loaded with minerals.

Excursion to the Cacheuta hot springs

The Cacheuta Suspension Bridge was inaugurated in 1952 to connect the Trans-Andean train station with the working-class neighborhood across the river. Today, its nearly 140 meters in length still invite visitors to cross it, with the mountainous landscape as a backdrop.

But we continued on our way to the Potrerillos reservoir.

In the majesty of a 12km long and almost 3km wide reservoir, its turquoise waters reflect the Andean foothills.

It’s truly impressive to arrive here; the route suddenly reveals a dreamlike landscape, with colors that seem to have been perfectly chosen.

Excursion to Potrerillos and Cacheuta

The town of Potrerillos was born as a summer resort, surrounded by rural farms, and flourished after the construction of the dam, which regulated the Blanco and Mendoza rivers and generated vital hydroelectric power for the region.

Uspallata

After enjoying these landscapes, we returned to the road to reach Uspallata as our destination for the first day. We would now take Route 7, a route we would continue tomorrow as well.

We arrived at Uspallata, a small mountain town that serves as a gateway to the Andes mountain range.

Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, it’s an ideal place to relax and explore nature in its purest state. Its main attractions include the Uspallata Vaults, colonial buildings that formed part of the Camino Real (Royal Road), and the Seven Colors Hill, which offers unforgettable views.

Some cabins awaited us about 5 kilometers from the center. The Naol cabins were great. We had a total of two nights here.

Dawn was breaking in Uspallata. The place had seemed beautiful to us in the afternoon, but in the morning it was dreamy, with a tranquility that I believe transcends the camera, a natural paradise.

We took the route, starting in Uspallata, to take this high-mountain road to the Chilean border. Traveling along National Route 7 from Uspallata to Los Caracoles, on the Chilean side, is an experience that combines majestic landscapes, history, and excitement.

Los Penitentes and Puente del Inca

Punta de Vacas was the first point we passed through, until we reached Los Penitentes.

Located 170 km from the city of Mendoza, Los Penitentes is a mountainous area that invites you to stop and enjoy the scenery at any time of year. Its name comes from some unusual rock formations that, seen from a distance, resemble a group of hooded monks walking.

For decades, Los Penitentes was one of Argentina’s most famous ski resorts. Although the resort is currently closed to the public for traditional winter activities, the site retains its infrastructure and continues to be a point of interest for travelers traveling along National Route 7..

The following is an essential stop on this route and this tour through the mountain range

About 25 km from Los Penitentes is Puente del Inca, a natural rock and sulfur formation that forms a bridge over the Las Cuevas River. A thermal hotel operated here in the early 20th century, now in ruins but with a nostalgic charm. This is an ideal spot to stop, take photos, and visit the small crafts center.

You can take this high-mountain tour from the city of Mendoza on a day trip if you don’t have a car or don’t want to drive. Or rent a car so you have the freedom to stop whenever you want on this high-mountain tour in Mendoza. I highly recommend taking it because it’s simply wonderful.

This highway connecting Argentina with Chile is often closed in winter due to heavy snowfall. Stopping at a stop like Uspallata is ideal for finding out when it opens and being able to cross.

Aconcagua Provincial Park

A few kilometers further on is the Provincial Park, with its viewpoint offering a unique view of Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas (6,962 m). From here, you can take easy hikes to Horcones Lagoon, with interpretive trails and majestic views of the Andean surroundings.

Excursion to Aconcagua Provincial Park

The viewpoint is only about 400 meters away and is easily accessible. However, if you want to hike the trail, you must register at the station next to the trailhead. Aconcagua Provincial Park website

Throughout this trip through Argentina, we were always connected to the Holafly Argentina eSIMS. Here’s a discount code: EUROPAACOMPANADA5

Las Cuevas and border crossing

As you ascend toward the border, you reach the small town of Las Cuevas, the last Argentine point before the international tunnel. From here, you can climb (weather permitting and during the summer) to Christ the Redeemer of the Andes, a monument at 3,832 meters high that symbolizes peace between Argentina and Chile.

We left it for the return trip; now we wanted to cross the border to see the so-called Caracoles, the zigzag route that leads down the mountain.

The border is crossed through the Cristo Redentor Tunnel, which connects both countries at 3,200 meters above sea level. Border control was slower than expected.

Los Caracoles (Chile) and Cristo Redentor de los Andes

Once in Chilean territory, the legendary Los Caracoles section begins, a series of more than 20 hairpin bends that descend steeply toward the Aconcagua Valley. From the top, you get unparalleled views of the route, and in winter, it’s common to see trucks and vehicles moving slowly through the snow.

After enjoying this wonder, we returned to Argentine customs. Another wait, but this time it was much faster, and we were finally going to climb Christ the Redeemer statue in Las Cuevas, Argentina.

High mountain excursion in Mendoza in a small group

Amidst high-altitude landscapes and mountain winds, from the small town of Las Cuevas, one of the most astonishing stretches of the high mountains begins: the ascent to Christ the Redeemer of the Andes, a monument steeped in history and symbolism, located more than 3,800 meters above sea level.

The climb begins at a signposted turnoff from National Route 7, just before reaching the international tunnel. The gravel road, with many hairpin bends, ascends for about 9 km through landscapes of bare rock, eternal snow (depending on the season), and a profound silence interrupted only by the wind.

This route is only open during the off-season of snow, as it is often covered in snow and impassable in winter.

At the top of the hill, at 3,832 meters above sea level, stands the statue of Christ the Redeemer of the Andes, inaugurated in 1904 as a symbol of peace between Argentina and Chile, following a long history of border tensions that, at that time, were resolved through diplomacy.

The 7-meter-high monument, mounted on a stone base, was carried piece by piece on muleback. Today, from this vantage point, there are panoramic views.

Before the construction of the Christ the Redeemer Tunnel (inaugurated in 1980), the climb to the monument was the official border crossing between Argentina and Chile. The original road, known as the Camino del Bermejo or the Camino del Inca (due to its proximity to ancient Andean trails), was used by travelers, muleteers, and armies since colonial times.

For much of the 20th century, this road was the only passable vehicle route in the summer, albeit with difficulty. Therefore, crossing the mountain range was an adventure that depended on the weather and the condition of the road. With the arrival of the modern tunnel, the pass became more accessible and faster, and the old road to El Cristo was reserved for tourist visits.

On the Chilean side, the original road leading to Christ the Redeemer descended into the Aconcagua River valley, connecting with the Juncal sector and then with Route CH-60, which descends toward Los Caracoles. Currently, access is only available from the Argentine side, that is, by ascending from Las Cuevas and returning along the same route. On the Chilean side: The old road that descended toward Chile is no longer operational for normal traffic. The area is no longer maintained as a public road, but some access is possible by all-terrain vehicles or motorcycles.

We descended and returned to our cabins in Uspallata to finish our high mountain tour of Mendoza, which had begun in Mendoza City.

High mountain video tour

NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience and is completely objective. This article contains affiliate links.

La entrada High mountains, Andean crossing, Mendoza se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.

The imposing Andes mountain range serves as a backdrop, one of the province’s fertile areas where vineyards produce the grapes for Mendoza’s renowned wines. Aside from that, this is an area we travelers don’t want to miss due to its scenic beauty.

The Uco Valley is primarily known for its Malbec wine production, which accounts for more than 50% of the region’s production.

This area can be visited on a Uco Valley Tour from the city of Mendoza.

If we go further back in history, these lands tell us that they were habitat and a place of passage for different native peoples, and that in the 17th century the Jesuits settled there, beginning their evangelization.

General San Martín’s presence in the area marks a milestone, and a monument commemorates him in the historic Apple Tree in Tunuyán.

In recent years, the significant offering of services and hotels, along with learning more about its wines and enjoying its landscapes, has made tourists want to explore this famous Uco Valley.

Presented in broad strokes, we now detail our departure.

Tour of the Uco Valley

We left the city of Mendoza in the morning, taking national routes until we took the emblematic Route 40 that crosses the country. Our journey continued along this path for just over 100 kilometers, dotted with wineries, restaurants, and vineyards, so we wouldn’t even notice that time was passing, and boy, was it passing quickly.

Our destination was to stay at Gaia Lodge at the Domaine Bousquet Winery in the Tupungato department.

To do this tour, I would recommend two things: the first would be to add an extra day so you can make reservations at another winery to visit besides the one at your destination. The second would be to make reservations early and not go without them.

The route with the Andes on one side makes it hypnotic.

Tunuyán, San Carlos, Zuccardi Winery.

Thus we arrived in Tunuyán, the beauty of the natural, the simplicity makes this route not to be missed.

The road to San Carlos made us stop several times, we never ceased to marvel.

Several well-known wineries are appearing before our eyes, such as Bodega Zuccardi, which makes choosing from the moment you plan your getaway essential, because there are so many options, all of them renowned and beautiful.

Since we didn’t have a reservation, we couldn’t visit the winery, but I’ll leave it here because it’s another option you might like. We moved on to another one.

For those in Mendoza without a car, or for those who want a more relaxed experience, there are excursions that depart from the city to this valley, usually allowing you to visit one of the wineries or enjoy lunch at one. I think it’s a good plan.

Renting a car in Mendoza is also an option. I’ll describe where we usually rent it. A car will give us the freedom to enjoy these landscapes and choose one of the wineries to visit.

The tour can also be done by renting a car in the city of Mendoza.

Vista Flores, Pérgolas.

Some giant bottles made us stop along the way; they were very picturesque and caught our attention, pointing us to a series of restaurants and wine bars.

It was time for a gastronomic stop and a rest, so well on our way, we were in Vista Flores.

It is the theme center of Pérgolas de Vista Flores in Tunuyán at the intersection of routes 92 and 94.

Some good empanadas with different flavors were the option, with wine for those of us who were not driving, and as it had already been in the city of Mendoza and would continue to be throughout Argentina, the gastronomy and wines never disappoint, but quite the opposite.

The place offers relaxation and entertainment options, but it was time to move on and head toward our destination.

We would first pass by a winery.

We’re letting you know we were always connected thanks to the Argentina ESIIM unlimited internet service. We’ve included a discount coupon in the description, as well as a video explaining what it is and how to install it.

Giménez Riili Winery

The road continued to offer beauty, we arrived at the Gimenez Rilli Winery.

The arrival already anticipates something special. Between dirt roads and breathtaking views, the winery opens up like an invitation to slow down, to reconnect with the land and your senses.

Founded by a family passionate about wine, Giménez Riili combines tradition, innovation, and Mendoza hospitality.

The story begins with a family dream. For generations, the Giménez Riilis have cultivated their love of wine, and today that legacy lives on in every glass.

The philosophy is clear: wines with identity, with a strong emotional connection with those who drink them. Each label tells a story, and each story has a protagonist: the visitor.

It offers guided tours of the winery and tastings, but if you thought the experience ended there… you’d be wrong, because the winery’s restaurant is tempting.

And if you want to stay? You can, too. The winery offers boutique accommodations for those looking to extend the experience. Ideal for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle, watching the sunset with a glass in hand, and sleeping with the wind whispering through the vines.

So if what you’re seeing tempts you, remember to book the experience you want.

But we continued our journey because it was another choice we made.

Along the route, several wineries are displayed that you can choose to visit, such as Trapiche or Salentein.

Domaine Bousquet Winery, Gaia Lodge, Uco Valley

We continued our journey and were almost at our destination. Our last stop was a winery that combined the best of both worlds: the French spirit and the Argentine soil.

We’re at Domaine Bousquet, a pioneering winery in organic viticulture, located in the beautiful Uco Valley, more than 1,200 meters above sea level.

Ready to enjoy excellent cuisine and taste the wines?

The story of Domaine Bousquet begins far from here: in the south of France. Jean Bousquet, a fourth-generation winemaker, left his homeland in search of something more. And he found it in these Mendoza lands, where he saw the potential for sustainable high-altitude viticulture.

Since then, the winery has grown with a clear mission: to produce high-quality organic wines, respecting nature and taking care of every detail of the process.

From the moment you arrive, you’re struck by a sense of tranquility that’s hard to describe. The atmosphere is relaxed, the service is friendly, and the scenery… simply perfect.

Our experience at Domaine Bousquet Winery was much more than a visit: it was a complete immersion in the flavors, landscapes, and tranquility of Mendoza. We stayed in the charming Gaia Lodge, a space designed for relaxation and enjoyment of the natural surroundings, with open views of the vineyards and the majestic Andes mountain range.

The bikes are there as if inviting us to take a ride, …and why not?

From the sunrise between rows of vines to the completely silent nights, everything invited you to slow down and connect with the place.

Gaia Lodge Restaurant in Uco Valley

But if there was one moment that sealed this experience, it was the four-course wine-paired dinner at the Gaia Lodge restaurant. Each course was a small work of art, designed to highlight the best of its organic wines. From a fresh and aromatic starter to a sweet and unforgettable finish, the menu was a celebration of local cuisine with a gourmet touch. The carefully chosen pairings enhanced each bite and allowed the flavors to unfold in unique ways.

In the morning, the enjoyment was repeated again. Watching the sunrise with the Andes mountain range from our room was wonderful, and it gave us a glimpse of what we would experience in the following days.

Breakfast awaited us in the dining room where the views looked perfect with the sun.

In the Uco Valley, there are many exclusive accommodation options in wineries, but they aren’t cheap experiences. This was a very good value option we found.

Domaine Bousquet also has a restaurant that offers wonderful views and can be a great option for lunch even if you are not staying there.

After breakfast, we took a guided tour of the winery. They offer tours with or without tasting, as well as several options such as horseback riding or cooking experiences. We had the tour included because we had dinner here.

But… it was time to leave, even though, as I said, you would have spent at least one more night.

Now we continue our route to Tupungato to continue towards the high mountains in the Andes Mountains.

NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience and is completely objective. This article contains affiliate links.

La entrada Uco Valley, Mendoza’s wine route se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.

Day 1. What to see in Mendoza

We began the tour with a free tour of the city of Mendoza to get to know a city that, although I had been to for quite some time, was Fernando’s first time there.

Free tours are walking tours that, despite their name, aren’t free. It’s free to reserve your spot, but you’ll have to leave the guide a fee you decide based on your experience and the cost of such a tour. I can’t stress enough how good they are, and this was no exception.

Mendoza is extremely wooded, with irrigation ditches that channel meltwater and irrigate all this vegetation; it feels like an oasis. It has many plazas, five of which we’ll see here. If we looked from above, we’d see a large plaza in the middle and four more plazas at the four corners.

Open spaces that this city has, which has been shaken by earthquakes and needs wide avenues and spaces in case of another catastrophe.

The squares are all very beautiful, and we’ll begin this itinerary there. I’ll give you their order, but remember I’m leaving the map. We begin this tour of what to see in Mendoza.

Independence Square

Located in the heart of the city, Plaza Independencia is a must-see on any tour of Mendoza. It is the largest and most emblematic of the five plazas that make up the city’s layout, and stands out for its central fountain, green spaces, and the constant flow of artisans and street artists. From here, you can easily access places like the Teatro Independencia and the Municipal Museum of Modern Art.

As we mentioned, this is the main and largest square. Here you’ll find the I Love Mendoza sign, the coat of arms, which can be seen illuminated at night, and fountains, one of which features dancing water, a show we were able to enjoy. It takes place Thursday through Sunday and holidays at 8:00 p.m.

The Hyatt Regency is located on Independence Square. This luxurious five-star hotel is housed in a restored historic building with a 19th-century Spanish colonial-style facade.

Sarmiento Pedestrian Street

The Sarmiento pedestrian promenade departs from Independencia square. A charming street with many shops, fountains, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a lovely walk. We take it, and the steps immerse us in a peaceful yet vibrant life.

We soon arrived at our next stop, an elegant icon of downtown Mendoza, the San Martín Passage, yet another must-see in Mendoza city.

San Martín Passage

Located in the heart of the city, Pasaje San Martín is much more than a crossroads: it’s an architectural gem that connects history and art. Inaugurated in the 1920s, this building pioneered the rise of high-rise construction in a city marked by the memory of earthquakes. Its design combines French stained glass, Italian marble, and natural lighting that beautifies its shopping arcades.

San Martín Square

After this lovely surprise we found in the city, our steps headed towards Plaza San Martín.

Plaza San Martín is an oasis of tranquility and a historic meeting point in the heart of Mendoza. More than just a green space, this plaza is surrounded by cultural and architectural icons that enrich the experience. The Basilica of San Francisco is just steps away.

Nearby, the Contemporary Art Space offers a window into modern art, while the Mendoza Secretariat of Culture dazzles us with its facade.

Central Market

If there’s one place we have to see in Mendoza, it’s the Central Market. I particularly love visiting markets. Entering there was like immersing yourself in a world of colors, aromas, and flavors that tell you the very essence of the city. From fresh fruits and vegetables from the region to stands selling cheeses, wines, and cured meats that invite you to try every corner of the province.

Chile Square

Although it’s smaller than other squares, it has a special charm and a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to linger. I like to stop by to take a break between strolls or to sit and enjoy the day surrounded by trees and sculptures.

What strikes me most is its historical significance: this square represents the friendship and bond between Mendoza and Chile, two sister regions that share much more than a border. Here you can see monuments that celebrate this relationship and feel the spirit of unity that is a fundamental part of the local identity.

Italia Square

If you’re strolling through downtown Mendoza, a must-see is Plaza Italia. This space is not only one of the city’s green lungs, but also a living tribute to the Italian community, which contributed so much to the history and development of the region.

And now we will go to the last of this quintet,

España Square

Among the most beautiful and photogenic squares in downtown Mendoza, Plaza España undoubtedly occupies a special place. This public space not only pays tribute to Spanish immigration to the province, but also does so with an aesthetic that transports you directly to southern Spain, without having to cross the Atlantic.

Now the walk will be longer but a street full of life and bars awaits us: Calle Arístides.

Arístides Villanueva Street, the Mendoza scene

Arístides Villanueva Street is one of Mendoza’s liveliest streets. During the day, it’s ideal for strolling under the shade of its trees, sipping a coffee outdoors, or simply sitting and watching Mendoza’s life in motion. And at night, it transforms into the heart of the local scene, with bars, breweries, and restaurants that fill the sidewalks with laughter and cheers.

Mafalda

But in the middle of this vibrant street, there’s one corner that wins everyone’s affection: the corner of Arístides and Huarpes, where a sculpture of Mafalda sits on a bench, ready for photos. This small monument pays tribute to the great Quino, the creator of Argentina’s most beloved comic strip, who was born in Mendoza.

We continued walking, enjoying the city, but in the late afternoon we headed out to try the excellent cuisine found in the city.

Restaurants

Sarmiento Street, especially the blocks from Plaza Independencia to Avenida Belgrano, has become a true culinary hub in Mendoza. At first glance, it may seem like a quiet street with low houses and mature trees, but if you pay attention, you’ll discover a culinary surprise behind every door.

In just a few blocks, you’ll find a huge variety of options: from grills and taverns with local flavor to signature cuisine, vegetarian dishes, Asian cuisine, pizzerias, cafes, and ice cream shops. It’s the kind of street where you can go without a fixed plan, walk for a few minutes, and you’re sure to find something that tempts you.

Yes, I have to tell you that it is an expensive area to eat, we chose to do so in La Lucía.

Day 2. What to see in Mendoza

San Martín Park

If there’s one place to see in Mendoza, it’s General San Martín Park. Much more than a green space, this park is a true symbol of the city. It was designed in the late 19th century as an ambitious project to beautify Mendoza and, at the same time, provide a major lung for the city. And they certainly succeeded.

The main entrance already sets the tone: the Park Gates, made of wrought iron and with gilded details, are a jewel of artistic ironwork. They were brought from Scotland and installed at the beginning of the 20th century.

A few steps further on, the Fountain of the Continents captures everyone’s attention. This monumental fountain, with allegorical figures representing Europe, Asia, Africa, and America, is one of the most photographed in the park. It was made in France and is another example of the strong cultural ties Mendoza had with Europe at the beginning of the last century.

But when it comes to views, the star of the show is Cerro de la Gloria. The climb can be done by car, on foot, or even by bicycle, and it’s worth every effort. At the top, an impressive monument dedicated to the Army of the Andes by Uruguayan sculptor Juan Manuel Ferrari awaits you. The work was inaugurated on February 12, 1914.

Wineries in Mendoza

In Mendoza, you can book tours to the wineries in the Uco Valley, or to other nearby wineries in the metropolitan areas of Mendoza, such as Maipú or Luján de Cuyo. Maipú Winery Tour.

So since we were in the vehicle, we would head out to do these visits, which, as I told you, can be done on a guided tour.

Chandon Winery

In the heart of Agrelo, one of Mendoza’s most prestigious wine-producing regions, lies Chandon winery, a true icon of Argentine sparkling wine. What few people know is that this was the legendary Moët & Chandon’s first international venture outside of France. And they chose Mendoza for a very clear reason: here they found the perfect combination of altitude, cool climate, and mineral soils to create sparkling wines that rival European wines.

Visiting Chandon is like entering a world of elegance and tradition. From the meticulous vineyards to the underground cellar where the bottles rest, everything is designed to convey a philosophy of respect for the product and the environment. Book a visit to Chandon Winery

Casa Vigil

Visiting Casa Vigil isn’t simply a visit to a winery: it’s a journey into a world where wine, literature, and gastronomy intertwine to offer a unique experience in Mendoza. Located in Chachingo, a quiet corner of the Maipú department, this winery is the personal project of winemaker Alejandro Vigil, a renowned name in the Argentine wine world, and is one of the wineries to visit in Mendoza.

In terms of gastronomy, Casa Vigil has achieved what few wineries have achieved: being recognized with a Michelin star, and also with a green star for its sustainable approach. The cuisine is based on seasonal produce, many of which are grown on-site, such as the native tomato varieties carefully tended by Vigil’s wife, María Sance. The result is creative, intense dishes deeply connected to the land.

Everything is accompanied by wines from El Enemigo, the line created by Vigil, where each label has its own story, character, and place. Book your visit to Casa Vigil

If you enjoy wine tours, don’t miss our visit to the Champagne Route in France.

Night fell quickly, and the dancing water show entertained us before we decided to dine again on Sarmiento Street. This time we chose El Asadito. The food is excellent both here and at La Lucía.

Night fell quickly, and the dancing water show entertained us before we decided to dine again on Sarmiento Street. This time we chose El Asadito. The food is excellent both here and at La Lucía.

We still had places to visit, such as Plaza Pedro del Castillo, the founding square and ruins of the Cabildo, the Jesuit ruins, and the San Martin house.

Also the Museum of Natural Sciences, Frank Romero Greek Theatre, or the Paseo de la Alameda.

Practical information

We were connected via mobile data with Holafly Argentina eSIMs, just as they’ve always accompanied us on our trips to Europe. Here’s a discount code for followers of Europe Accompanied. EUROPAACOMPANADA5

We went with travel assistance. As I always say, you should travel with travel insurance. I’ll leave the two companies we used so you can compare. Iati Seguros, with a wide range of options, and Go Assistance, on the other. comprehensive assistance to travelers.

We stayed half a block from Plaza Independencia, at the Fuente Mayor Hotel. It was a great option for a tour of everything there is to see in Mendoza.

Video and map

NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience and is completely objective. This article contains affiliate links.

La entrada What to see in Mendoza city se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.