Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP OF CHAPTER
Cafayate
03868 / POP 13,300 / ELEV 1683M
Argentina's second center for quality wine production, Cafayate is a popular tourist des-
tination but still has a tranquil small-town feel. It's spectacularly scenic, with the green of
the vines backed by soaring mountains beyond, and is one of northwest Argentina's most
seductive destinations. It's easily reached from Salta via the tortured rockscapes of the
Quebrada de Cafayate; it's also a major stop on RN40 and the Valles Calchaquíes route.
With a selection of excellent accommodations for every budget, and several wineries to
visit in and around town, it invites laying up for a while to explore the surrounding area.
Also, check out the excellent
artesanía
.
Cafayate is famous for its torrontés
,
a grape that produces aromatic dry white wine,
but the bodegas hereabouts also produce some fine reds from cabernet sauvignon, mal-
bec and tannat.
Sights & Activities
Museo de la Vid y El Vino
MUSEUM
OFFLINE MAP
(
www.museodelavidyelvino.gov.ar
; Av General Güemes; foreigners/Argentines AR$30/10;
10am-7.30pm Tue-Sun)
This impressive museum gives a good introduction to the area's
wine industry. The atmospheric first section, which deals with the viticultural side - the
life of the vines - through a series of poems and images, is particularly appealing. The
second part covers the winemaking side, and there's a cafe where you can try and buy.
English translations are good throughout.
