There's more to the Andes than spectacular mountain pass views. 80% of Argentina's wine is produced in the Mendoza region, which lies at the bone-dry foothills of the Andes. Here the sunny days and cold nights breed rich, potent reds. And if you were only planning to stay for a day or two, be prepared to be captivated and tempted to dwell longer. The accommodation is equally alluring, with our pick of the best places to stay in the Mendoza Province varying from luxury hotels with sumptuous spas to properties with outstanding restaurants.

However, Mendoza isn't just about big reds. Higher up the slopes are where the Chardonnay and Semillon grapes flourish, developing the slightly acidic taste the region's whites are known for. There are about 800 wineries in the region, so there's plenty of new flavours to taste. For peak wine and food season, visit during the harvest festival, which has spread out from March to include January through April. And you might want to consider reading our article recommending the best wine hotels in Mendoza.

Scenic, beautifully laid out and with every luxury laid on, Mendoza can be as adventurous or relaxing a destination as you choose. High enough in the Andes to provide an adventure sports playground, there are many local operators who'll arrange skiing, rafting, kayaking, trekking or paragliding. Or you can just sit around and enjoy the scenery with a glass of Malbec.

It's worth remembering that not all of Mendoza's charms are outside the city. Mendoza city itself is bustling with interest along its wide, leafy avenues and historic plazas — this is also a great city to visit for cafe culture and nightlife.

With so much on offer, this is a near perfect holiday destination. Why not browse through our collection of the best places to stay in the Mendoza Province to start planning your trip?

The best places to stay in Mendoza Province

For Foodies and Oenophiles

• On the edge of Mendoza city, the Posada Verde Oliva offers smart accommodation in muted tones with fireplaces, exposed wooden beams and French doors leading outside. Tuck into delicious home-cooked meals and wines which are produced on the property itself.
• Nearby to the south of the city, with only 4 bedrooms, Club Tapiz is one of the best places to stay in Mendoza if you're looking for local insights. It was the old provincial governor's house, and its small size and the owner's own foodie tastes mean that there's plenty of local gourmet delicacies being served. Alongside wonderful wines from the 22 acres of vineyard surrounding the villa.
• And just 10 minutes away is Finca Adalgisa, a lowkey B&B and winery which is ideal for those wanting a quiet retreat. The rooms are traditionally Argentine in style, whilst there's also a pool for guests to enjoy.
• An hour south in the foothills of the mountains, The Vines Resort & Spa is divine. Set in the midst of stunning wine route countryside, their contemporary rooms are smartly decorated and feature terraces which enjoy stunning views. Plus, the food is to die for!
• For a really chilled stay, check out Tupungato Divino. They grow their own vegetables and offer a wide selection of wines from the surrounding fincas, at great prices.
• And for a more traditional winery, the ranch-style 16 room Posada Salentein and Winery is just minutes down the road. They have an excellent restaurant, a pool set amongst the vineyards, and they offer wine tours.
• Last, if you prefer to stay somewhere larger, drive two hours further to the Algodon Wine Estate at San Rafael. As well as being on a wine estate, this resort also has a world-class golf course and 10 tennis courts. And locally there's excellent fishing, rafting, and biking. So it's also one of the best places to stay in Mendoza province for those who like to exercise off their foodie extravaganzas.

Mendoza City

• The Park Hyatt Mendoza is one of the most stylish options for a city stay. With a spa, casino and all the mod cons you can imagine, this is also one of the best places to stay in Mendoza for business or conference travellers.
• At the other end of the scale, the 5-room B&B Plaza Italia features individually-styled, tasteful rooms decorated in rich hues. Located bang in the centre of Mendoza, it's ideal for those wanting to see all that the city has to offer.
• For a third option, check out the 5 star Diplomatic Hotel, 3 minutes from the city centre. It has a great restaurant as well as a health club and spa, and provides a convenient and comfortable base for exploring this lovely city.

For Romance

• Back near Mendoza city, the conveniently located Cavas Wine Lodge is one of the best places to stay in Mendoza for honeymoons and weddings. A boutique vineyard, their 14-room lodge is an excellent size for small weddings. The terrace restaurant overlooks the vines and snowcapped mountains, the spa is luxurious and the vibe is peaceful and comfortable.
• And on the edge of Mendoza is the luxurious Posada Borravino, boasting a tranquil setting and rustic-chic rooms. Lounge by the courtyard pool by day before enjoying a splendid meal accompanied by regional wines. With only 8 rooms, it's an intimate spot.

Mind and Body

• For those looking for a spot of pampering with their wine tasting, look no further than Entre Cielos. Here you'll find a luxury vineyard and spa resort that provides sophisticated, contemporary accommodation, gourmet food and a gorgeous hammam and spa — all close to the city.
• Ten minutes drive away is the charming, five room Robles de Besares, catering to total rejuvenation. including Reiki, hydromassage, a gym, tennis and a lovely pool. Set in beautiful grounds, it's also great for families.

For families

• If you are doing the wine route as a family or small group, you should consider the Postales Boutique Hotel in Mendoza's southern suburbs, where the wine route starts. It's a classic Mendoza farmhouse and winery, set amid 37 acres of vines. Spacious rooms open onto the gardens, and the adobe house (the original farmhouse) provides a great option for families.
• Further down the wine route, an hour and a half south, La Morada Guesthouse is a small boutique lodge with a unique and personal touch, and its 'House of Olives' is ideal for a family booking.

For sheer style

• An hour south of the city, the Finca La Azul, a Casa de Huespedes, oozes stylish charm, its sleek design featuring a variety of materials — think exposed stonework and plenty of glass. Plus, their cuisine is simply delectable.
• A short distance away, Lodge Atamisque boasts a stunning setting with spectacular views of the nearby mountains. Their lodges are composed entirely of natural materials and offer swish yet cosy interiors. What's more, it's set on its own winery — what more could you ask for?
• Close by on the wine route is Alpasion, whose owners produce spectacular wines. It's a deceptively plain-looking and minimalist lodge in a wonderfully rural location, with chic contemporary accommodation and large terraces. They offer great Argentine cuisine and plenty of quiet spaces to chill out.
• Last, literally next door, the super cool designer Casa de Uco boasts more splendid views of the surrounding area: from the mountains to the sprawling vineyards. Its interiors are sleek and stylish, which is matched by their top-notch menu.

For an self catering holiday apartment or villa

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Mendoza Province?

• Mendoza is nicest weather-wise in the summer months, from November to March, with the average temperature climbing to 26°C in December and January. This, however, is peak tourist season, so for a quieter and cheaper alternative consider coming in the shoulder season months.
• If you're travelling from within Argentina or from Santiago then you can fly into the Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport, aka El Plumerillo.
• Alternatively, if you're coming from abroad then fly into Buenos Aires's Ministro Pistarini Airport before taking a flight to Mendoza.
• From here, hire a car with Rentalcars to get to your final destination.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Mendoza.
• Widen the net to include our recommendations in Córdoba or Santiago.
• Alternatively, feel free to call or email one of our gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Mendoza Province