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Argentina is a country full of the fine things in life: awe-inspiring landscapes featuring both immense plains and imposing mountains, fantastic wines, superb food, European-flavored sophistication and most of all, intensely passionate people who have perfected the art of living well. This richness reaches a maximum in the Mendoza province of the spectacular Cuyo region with its dazzling prairies, fruit and tree plantations, mythical villages, high-altitude vineyards producing groundbreaking wines, meandering caminos del vino, all with majestic views of the Andes foothills to the west.
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•Impressive views of the snow-capped Andes Mountains
•Magnificently luxurious accommodations on lush wine estates
•Horseback riding with a gaucho, Argentine cowboy
•A visit to the energizing thermal baths of the Cacheuta Valley
•An unforgettable gastronomic experience at the renowned Almacen del Sur
•Visits to exceptional wineries featuring polished New World wines
•Experienced Bike Riders guide, Teresa Perez
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Days1 & 2 Mendoza and the Tupungato Valley.
We've entered winemaking territory. After arriving at the breathtaking vineyards of the pristine Posada Salentein, our home for the next two nights, we settle in and head out to discover this land, famous for its rich and fertile tierra and ideal microclimate. Pinot noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Meuneir are some of the grape varietals found on the finca's, or estate's, historical 17th century vineyards that are lovingly tended by hand. After a short bike ride we leave the bikes behind, and do as the Argentines do and ride by horseback with a gaucho as our guide - a cultural must do here. Dinner tonight is a festive asado, typical Argentine barbecue including a variety of grilled specialties.
Our next day's ride is gentle and leads us through apple, pear and cherry orchards nestled below the foothills of the Andes. We bike along rows of vineyards to the town of Tunuyan, untouched by tourism, allowing us a taste of what life is like for the local Mendocino's.
• Two nights at the Posada Salentein, and exclusive wine estate just outside of Tunuyan situated on stunning vineyards and home to a prestigious art collection
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Day 3 & 4 Lujan de Cuyo & the Cachueta Valley.
Heading North towards Lujan de Cuyo, a city bordered by the Rio Mendoza, we reach The Cachueta Valley, a unique geological display of vivid colors that change according to the characteristics of the rock. Thermal baths and cold mineral springs, a superior air quality said to promote rest, relaxation, and greater energy, as well as over a hundred varieties of birds are just a few of the qualities that make Cachueta extraordinary.
• Two nights at the Estancia Lares de Chacras, a stylish family. run wine estate immersed in Syrah vineyards and plum orchards.
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Day 5, 6 & 7 Maipu and Agrelo
The next day's routes lead us through Maipu and Agrelo. We are first spoiled by a remarkable gastronomic experience at the elegant yet warm and intimate Almacen del Sur. Their chef prepares our lunch with ingredients cultivated right on this special property.
Malbec, a grape synonymous with Argentina and known for its intense flavor and elegant zest, is the star of this corner of South America. Old World European winemaking techniques combine beautifully with New World style at Catena Zapata Vineyards, one of the very first wineries in this region to uncover the hidden splendor of the Malbec grape, originally used in Europe as a blending grape.
Tonight we toast our memorable adventure with a glass of wine while watching the brilliant sun as it sets behind the Andes. A farewell feast in the inn's candlelit dining room includes South American specialties such as rib eye with Chimicurri and offers an extensive list of rare wine labels.
Spend time at our fabulous 5-star hotel where tranquility is not elusive. After breakfast, indulge in a vinotherapy treatment at the spa, or take a dip in your personal plunge pool.
• Two nights at Cavas Wine Lodge, an opulent Relais & Chateaux property.
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Dates: Oct 26-Nov 1, Nov 16-22, Mar 22-28, 2009
Length: 7 days/ 6 nights
Level: 1 A/B
Daily Mileage: 5-50 miles on flat to gently rolling terrain
Cost: $3980
Single Supplement: $700
Meals: All breakfasts, all dinners but 2; picnic and snacks along the way
Hotels: Stylish and Elegant wine estates including a luxurious Relais & Chateaux property.
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