Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WESTERN RIOJA TRIPS
The western portion of La Rioja province is fascinating, with plenty of intriguing
destinations in the sierras. The towns of Chilecito and Villa Unión are launchpads
for a range of excellent excursions. Parque Nacional Talampaya is one appealing
trip, which also takes in the Ischigualasto provincial park and (from Chilecito)
crosses the picturesque Miranda pass. For some serious 4WD mountain action,
head up to the abandoned mine at La Mejicana (4603m), an ascent that takes in
some amazing scenery and a broad palette of colors, including a striking yellow
river. Deeper into the sierras by the Chilean border is sizable Laguna Brava, a
flamingo-filled lake surrounded by awesomely bleak and beautiful Andean scenery.
Higher still, at 5600m, is the sapphire-blue crater lake of Corona del Inca, only ac-
cessible in summer.
Operators in Chilecito such as
Salir del Cráter
( 03825-423854;
trips, which cost around AR$400 to AR$1100 per person depending on numbers.
In Villa Unión, a good operator is Runacay (
Click here
)
. There's usually a minimum
of two people, but they'll try and put a group together.
Sleeping
Posada del Sendero
GUESTHOUSE $
( 425489;
www.posadadelsendero.com.ar
; Pje Spilimbergo, San Miguel; s/d AR$190/290;
)
Tucked away on the edge of town, 2km from the plaza, this sweet spot looks over a
vineyard and the hilly surrounds of Chilecito. Eight unpretentious but appealing rooms
give on to a common space and a garden with small pool. It's utterly peaceful. Welcom-
ing hosts put on a good breakfast: for other meals, there's a barbecue or you can dial res-
taurant delivery.
Hotel Ruta 40
HOTEL $
( 422804;
www.hotelruta40.com.ar
; Libertad 68; s/d AR$150/220, without bathroom AR$120/
200; )
A laid-back budget hotel a couple of blocks from the plaza, this comfortable
spot offers a variety of rooms with decent enough beds and clean, spacious bathrooms.
Check out a few - some look over a vine-covered patio to the hills beyond.
Hostal Mary Pérez
GUESTHOUSE $
