Picture postcard colonial towns sit under the shadow of the distant Andes while lonely mountain roads are framed by gorges and national parks.
South of Salta, the Ruta 40 highway cuts through the heart of the breathtaking Calchaquies Valleys bound on all sides by terracotta peaks and multi-hued canyons. This is one of Argentina’s most captivatingly beautiful areas, a region that lends itself perfectly to self-drive holidays. Close to the edge of the Cardones National Park, the picturesque town of Cachi is the ideal base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes. Dating back to the 16th century, the white-washed adobe houses hark back to colonial times and lead down to the cobbled plaza and historic San Jose church. Further afield, the rolling canyons catch the evening light beautifully and shelter farms and traditional ochre-washed hamlets.
Heading south-east, the route to Cafayate is one of Argentina’s most spectacular journeys. The dizzying mountain road zigzags through eerie rock formations and lonely, colonial villages to reach the lush, rolling vineyards of Cafayate. There, you can relax at boutique winery, sample the region’s famous Torrontés wines or head out to explore the maroon, fortress-like canyons.
Cachi, Cafayate & Surrounds – Luxury Collection
Estancia Colome$$$$$
Wine, art and design combine at the sumptuous Estancia Colomé, a showpiece winery surrounded by colourful canyons deep in the remote wilds of the Calchaquies Valleys. As you follow the dusty, winding mountain road, Colomé appears out of nowhere, a colonial-style estate of picturesque gardens, cobbled courtyards and elegant galleries framed by the distant mountains. Colomé oozes charm and taste with carefully chosen artwork, regional textiles, soft furnishings and elegant hand-crafted furni...
Cachi, Cafayate & Surrounds Hotels
El Cortijo$$$
Once a family home, El Cortijo embodies the eye-catching colonial architecture so typical of the village; white-washed adobe walls which merge with natural stone and high wooden beams and balconies. Lovingly converted, el Cortijo retains many of the original features, from the antique wooden furniture and regional handicraft adorning the walls to the homely lounge centred around a crackling fireplace. The rooms are cosy and inviting although upgrade to the suite and you can enjoy an outside t...
Patios de Cafayate$$$$
La Merced del Alto$$$$
Viñas de Cafayate$$$
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