SALTA AND NORTH ARGENTINA
Colonial charm, peaceful vineyards and multi-coloured lunar landscapes can be found in northern Argentina
The colonial city of Salta sits in the middle of the sun baked desert landscape of Northern Argentina. The beautiful central plaza, which has an undeniable European feel to it, offers fine dining on the many terraces with views of the pretty pink church. The stunning colonial architecture makes this one of Argentina’s most photogenic cities, and any photographer will appreciate the views from the top of the nearby San Bernardo Hill which is accessible by car, cable car or stairs. The city of Salta is a friendly place, with many events throughout the year and it is often host to a variety of festivals, art exhibitions, music events and cultural shows. As you leave the city, the scenery changes dramatically to multi-hued rock formations, tall cacti and ancient canyons that are reminiscent of the Wild West. In this extensive region, vineyards can be found grouped around small towns and 5-star estancias, and visitors can enjoy idyllic cycling trips between each winery tasting samples of the fine wines plus cheeses, cured meats and fresh bread. Venture further north towards the Chilean border, and the higher altitudes create salt flats and a unique habitat known as the ‘Puna’. This area, which on average sits at 4,500 metres above sea level, is a fascinating geological place, with lakes which attract large flocks of flamingos and extinct volcanoes dotted along the horizon.
WHERE TO STAY
Our favourite luxury hotels
Grace Hotel Cafayate
Set within a valley surrounded by plains and mountains, with its own wine estate, golf and polo club, this is a very special hotel. Accommodation ranges from rooms through to suites and private villas. All are decorated in crisp cotton with warm earthy tones, echoing the colours of the surrounding environments. Highlights are the private villas which are equipped with their own private kitchen, terrace and Argentinean barbeque. Relaxation is high on the agenda at this hotel.
House of Jasmines
At the foot of the Andes, the Fenestraz family have created a unique and romantic atmosphere that combines tradition and modern comfort in a supremely stylish manner. This is a centuries old mansion which has been refurbished with pristine attention to detail. The property is surrounded by 247 acres of parks and gardens framed by spectacular scenery. The outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by a park sprinkled with colourful flowers and with a view to the magnificent landscape of the Andes, is ideal for relaxing.
Legado Mitico
A charming boutique hotel in the historic district of Salta. The building is an old mansion house and it is this style which is the essence of the hotel. Each room is an homage to a famous figure, either mythical or native to the region. The décor is fresh, warm colours, polished stone floors with accents of earthy tones add to the classic style of the traditional mansion. The central courtyard is overhung with plants and provides an oasis of calm in which to relax. Objets d’art and traditional materials add the finishing touches to this lovely hotel in a traditional city.
Finca Valentina
A charming, refurbished country house which maintains the local architecture and traditions with all the light and comfort of modern living, situated at the foot of the Andes just outside Salta in Northwest Argentina. All the rooms have under floor heating, and luxury beds and linen. Breakfast in the main house is served in the dining area with a view towards the mountains. The Italian cappuccino shouldn’t be missed, and there is also a variety of homemade cakes, natural products, seasonal juices, bread from the local bakery and jams and honey from neighbouring farms.
La Merced del Alto
An elegant hotel with stunning views, this is a gorgeous hotel at the foot of the Nevado de Cachi, in the stunning Calchaquí Valley. The hotel is a beautiful whitewashed building decorated using materials from the area to echo the colours of the valley. The 14 rooms are tastefully decorated with whitewashed walls, polished terracotta stone floors and exposed wood. A charming terrace borders the hotel, overlooking the surrounding valley and is the perfect place to enjoy a meal or a glass of fine wine. The hotel supports local artists, exhibiting their work year round.