7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Mendoza

Digital nomads living in Mendoza, are perfectly positioned to explore a diverse array of weekend getaways. From the rolling vineyards to the majestic Andes, there's a wealth of experiences just a short journey from the city. While Mendoza is known for its wine country, there are plenty of other attractions that cater to all tastes, including outdoor adventures, historical sites, and tranquil retreats. Here are seven fun weekend getaways, including some popular spots as well as hidden gems that are sure to enrich your nomadic lifestyle.

San Rafael

San Rafael offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a perfect weekend escape for digital nomads based in Mendoza. This oasis in the desert is known for its dam, Valle Grande, where visitors can engage in water sports such as rafting and kayaking. The nearby Atuel Canyon, with its dramatic rock formations and turquoise waters, is a sight to behold and a photographer's dream. Wine enthusiasts can also explore the local wineries, which are less frequented than those in Mendoza but equally charming.

How to Get There: The best way to reach San Rafael is by bus, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours from Mendoza. Several bus companies offer daily services to this destination.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Museo Ferroviario, an offbeat railway museum that offers a glimpse into the region's transportation history.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Tower Inn & Suites, which offers comfortable accommodations and a casino for evening entertainment. For a more intimate experience, Algodon Wine Estates & Champions Club provides luxury lodgings amidst vineyards.

Where to Eat: Savor the flavors of regional cuisine at Francesco Ristorante, known for its homemade pasta and local wines. For a more casual setting, La Maquina offers tasty empanadas and craft beers.

Uspallata

Nestled in the heart of the Andes, Uspallata is a small town that serves as a gateway to some of Argentina's most stunning landscapes. It's an ideal spot for those who love the great outdoors, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and visiting historical sites like the Picheuta Bridge. The region's unique geological formations, such as the natural amphitheater of Cerro Tunduqueral, are also worth exploring.

How to Get There: Uspallata is about a 2-hour drive from Mendoza. Renting a car is the most convenient option, but there are also bus services available.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the nearby Puente del Inca, a natural bridge with hot springs that has been a marvel since pre-Columbian times.

Where to Stay: Gran Hotel Uspallata offers a comfortable stay with amenities like a swimming pool and tennis courts. For a more rustic experience, try the cabanas at Cabañas Uspallata.

Where to Eat: El Rancho is a local favorite, offering hearty Argentine dishes such as asado (barbecue) and pastel de choclo (corn pie).

Cacheuta Thermal Springs

For a rejuvenating weekend, the Cacheuta Thermal Springs are a must-visit. These natural hot springs are set against the backdrop of the Andes and offer a variety of thermal pools with different temperatures. The spa also provides mud therapy and massages for a complete relaxation experience. It's an ideal place to unwind after a week of work and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters.

How to Get There: Cacheuta is about an hour's drive from Mendoza. Buses also run to the thermal springs, but having your own vehicle gives you more flexibility.

Travel Tip: Visit during the week if possible, as weekends can get crowded with both tourists and locals.

Where to Stay: The Hotel & Spa Termas Cacheuta offers on-site accommodations with direct access to the thermal pools and stunning mountain views.

Where to Eat: The hotel's restaurant serves a buffet with a variety of local dishes, including traditional Argentine barbecue and fresh salads.

Los Penitentes

Los Penitentes is a ski resort located in the Andes, about a two-hour drive from Mendoza. During the winter months, it's a paradise for snow sports enthusiasts, offering slopes for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, the area transforms into a hiker's haven, with trails leading to the high Andean peaks and the Aconcagua Provincial Park. The dramatic scenery and crisp mountain air make it an invigorating destination year-round.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Los Penitentes is by car or bus from Mendoza, with the journey taking around two hours.

Travel Tip: Even if you're not into skiing, take the chairlift for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Where to Stay: Ayelen Hotel de Montaña provides cozy accommodations with the convenience of being right on the slopes during the ski season.

Where to Eat: The hotel's restaurant offers a range of local and international dishes, perfect for refueling after a day of outdoor activities.

Villavicencio Natural Reserve

The Villavicencio Natural Reserve is an off-the-beaten-path destination that offers tranquility and stunning natural beauty. Known for its mineral water springs and the historic Villavicencio Hotel, the reserve boasts a diverse ecosystem with an array of flora and fauna. Hiking trails lead to viewpoints with panoramic vistas, and the area's rich history is evident in the remnants of old Jesuit ranches and indigenous petroglyphs.

How to Get There: Villavicencio is approximately an hour's drive from Mendoza. While there is no direct public transportation, tours are available, or you can rent a car for more freedom to explore.

Travel Tip: Take the scenic route known as the Caracoles de Villavicencio, a winding road with 365 curves that offers spectacular views of the reserve.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited within the reserve, but nearby Mendoza city offers a range of options, from hostels to luxury hotels.

Where to Eat: Dining options are also scarce within the reserve, so it's advisable to pack a picnic or plan to eat in Mendoza before or after your visit.

La Payunia Provincial Reserve

La Payunia Provincial Reserve is a lesser-known gem that boasts one of the highest concentrations of volcanic cones in the world. Its otherworldly landscape is a stark contrast to the lush vineyards of Mendoza and offers a unique opportunity for adventure and exploration. Guided tours are available to navigate the lava fields, and the reserve is also a sanctuary for wildlife such as guanacos and rheas.

How to Get There: Reaching La Payunia requires a drive of about 5 hours from Mendoza. Due to the reserve's remote location, it's best to join a guided tour or rent a 4x4 vehicle.

Travel Tip: Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and protective clothing, as the reserve's environment can be harsh with limited shade.

Where to Stay: Overnight options are limited near the reserve, so many visitors choose to stay in Malargüe, which has a range of accommodations.

Where to Eat: In Malargüe, try the regional specialty of chivito (goat meat) at La Cima, which offers a rustic and authentic dining experience.

Valle de la Luna (Ischigualasto Provincial Park)

Valle de la Luna, or Moon Valley, in Ischigualasto Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most unusual destinations near Mendoza. The park's lunar-like landscape is home to geological formations that date back millions of years, providing a glimpse into the Earth's distant past. Guided tours take visitors through the park to see highlights such as the Painted Valley and the Submarine, a rock formation resembling a submarine's silhouette.

How to Get There: The drive to Valle de la Luna from Mendoza takes approximately 6 hours. Due to the distance, it's best to plan for an overnight stay or a long weekend trip.

Travel Tip: Visit during the full moon for a night tour, which offers a completely different perspective of the park's dramatic features.

Where to Stay: Accommodations can be found in the nearby town of San Agustín de Valle Fértil, such as the comfortable and welcoming Cabañas Valle Verde.

Where to Eat: After a day of exploration, enjoy a meal at Restaurante Valle Fértil, known for its traditional Argentine dishes and local wine selection.