A Perfect Mix of Wine and Nature in Mendoza, Argentina

First, we will start with the obvious. Most people are traveling to Mendoza for the wine. I'm from California and the wine in Mendoza surprised me! Malbec is the most popular varietal, but there is more to taste. Wineries in Mendoza may even convert me to a Chardonnay drinker.

Even if you are only going for the wonderful wine with a beautiful backdrop of the Andes, you can even make that an adventure. Of course, they will have drivers to take you wherever you schedule your tastings, but have you ever horseback-ridden to wineries? This may be the time to try. If a horse sounds a little too scary, you can bike with a private guide as well.

Wineries in the Lujan de Cuyo and Maipú area include:

• Achaval

• Bressia

• Cruzat

• Decero

• Durigutti Wines

• Susana Balbo

• El Enemigo

• Kaiken

• Lagarde

• Las Perdices

• Matervini

• Pulenta

• Renacer

• Riccitelli

• Trapiche

• Terrazas

• Viña Cobos

• Vistalba

Notable wineries in the Uco Valley include:

• Andeluna

• Casa de Uco

• Diamandes

• Domaine Bousquet

• Monteviejo

• La Vigilia

• Piedra Infinita

• Salentein

• Alfa Crux

If wine isn't your thing (or you need a day off), no problem. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. There is golf, nearby white-water rafting and several hikes, depending on your level of activity. Not to mention, if you want a slower travel experience, a good book with the fresh air, or a spa day may be in order.

Day trip

Where to next? Easily pair a trip to Mendoza, Argentina with other destinations such as Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls or even Patagonia.

Fancy a casual Michelin-star meal? That's easy to do in Mendoza. Many wineries have really amazing food. No matter where you eat, you will not leave hungry.

• Casa Vigil: The ambience itself is an incredible experience. Not only the vineyard, but the artwork that has been curated for this property is simply amazing and could keep you here all day itself! Then, there's the food. Michelin star dining at its finest, focusing on local ingredients.

• Ruca Malen: At the Ruca Malen winery, sits this gorgeous gem of a restaurant. The seven-course tasting menu with wine pairings will make you say "wow." Dare I say my favorite dining experience in Mendoza?

• Azafrán: Another Michelin star pick that is located in the heart of the city of Mendoza, just blocks from the Plaza Indepedencia. This restaurant gives a contemporary take on favorite flavors of the region. They also have, as you would expect, a superb wine list.

• Siete Fuegos: You've probably heard of chef Frances Mallmann. A famous South American chef known for cooking the perfect meat on an open flame. You'll find this restaurant in the Vines Resort and Spa in the Uco Valley.

• Zonda Cocina de Paisaje: A Michelin-star restaurant that offers an innovative dining experience that highlights Mendoza's natural landscapes and local ingredients. With dishes crafted from seasonal produce and paired with exceptional wines. The restaurant's breathtaking mountain views and creative cuisine make it a must-visit in Uco Valley.

• 5 Suelos: Cocina de Finca - Durigutti wines with a menu focused on local flavors. This restaurant will not disappoint.