The Vines Resort & Spa, Mendoza

Location

At The Vines Resort, situated in the prestigious Uco Valley, pedestrian-only walks take you through green vineyards, vegetable gardens and bocce ball courts all to the backdrop of the majestic Andes. It’s an oenophile’s delight as guests are invited to get their hands dirty or simply enjoy the fruits of this excellent small-batch producer. And, for the more adventurous, there’s nearby mountain biking, hiking, fly fishing and horseback rides with Argentinian gauchos while everyone will delight in year round fine temperatures. On the estate, there’s a particularly scenic 5km run through the vines while helicopters can pick you up from the lodge for skiing up high.

Accommodation

The lodge itself is a perfect blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort with 22 spacious villas dotting its green fields. Natural fabrics, stone walls and earthy tones are complemented by designer furnishings as large decks – complete with plush lounge chairs – look out over trickling streams and 1,500 acres of vineyards to sweeping mountain views. Spa-inspired bathrooms with double vanities and fully fitted kitchenettes add creature comforts. In turn, Deluxe Villas come with both indoor and outdoor fireplaces as well as an outdoor hot tub, shower, rooftop terrace or plunge pool. Two Bedroom Deluxe Villas are also available, whose decks feature handmade clay tubs with that signature Andes view.

Dining

At Siete Fuegos, guests can enjoy regional specialities and traditional asado barbecues conjured up by well-known Argentine chef Francis Mallman. Ingredients are all locally sourced either from the lodge’s own gardens or the surrounding land. To match, seasonal ingredients are paired with exceptional local wines. The restaurant’s name translates as ‘seven fires’, referring to Mallman’s open-flame cooking techniques, inspired by Argentine gauchos. Specialties include 9-hour slow-grilled rib eye, cast-iron baked salmon and grilled seasonal fruits. Choose between dining in front of the open kitchen or outside, under the night’s sky.

Facilities

At the bar, a sommelier is always on hand to offer their expert guidance while guests are also encouraged to try their hand at everything from pressing to harvests. Or, spend the evening in the temperature controlled pool and hot tub whose poolside cabanas are served with snacks and cocktails. To sweat out any excess, there’s a state of the art gym – with cardio and weight equipment – that looks out over the vineyards. There’s also an outdoor climbing wall and waterside yoga sessions. And, no retreat would be without a spa, where a full menu spans a range of massage and beauty treatments and covered outdoor Jacuzzi sits among private gardens and water features.