Uco Valley
Activities, wineries, general information, and more!
The Uco Valley has gained fame in recent decades primarily for the quality of the wines produced there. It is also renowned for its unparalleled landscape at the foot of the Andes Mountains. In this article, you’ll find general information about tourism in the Uco Valley, activities to enjoy, some of the most famous wineries, and general recommendations for your trip.
Where is the Uco Valley located?
To begin with, it’s important to understand that the Uco Valley spans three departments: Tupungato, Tunuyán, and San Carlos. Located in the central part of Mendoza province, it’s about an hour south of the city, following Route 40. Covering an area of around 17,000 square kilometers, travel times can vary depending on your destination within the valley. It can even take up to 2 hours from the city to reach certain spots.
What makes it unique?
With altitudes ranging from 900 to 1700 meters above sea level, the Uco Valley stands out as one of Mendoza’s premier wine regions. Its distinctive temperature variations between day and night, combined with its high altitude, alluvial soils, over 250 sunny days a year, and minimal rainfall, create optimal conditions for growing high-quality grapes.
When visiting this valley, you’ll encounter vast and serene landscapes, with the majestic mountains as a backdrop. The population density here is lower compared to other areas, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings. Due to the region’s expanse, wineries are often more spread out, making it essential to visit them by vehicle.
What activities can be enjoyed in the Uco Valley?
While wine tourism is the main activity in the Uco Valley, there are plenty of other options to explore and enjoy this beautiful region. You can go horseback riding through the vineyards and hike among the hills to discover the area’s unique landscapes. You can also spend time relaxing and fishing in peaceful natural settings. Moreover, there’s no better way to end a day of exploration than with a delightful lunch accompanied by stunning views.
Wineries:
Some of the most well-known wineries located in the valley are: Salentein, Andeluna, La Azul, Super Uco, Piedra Negra, Solo Contigo, Corazón del Sol, Clos de los 7, Zuccardi Piedra Infinita, and many more!
General recommendations:
If you’re planning to visit the Uco Valley, here are some helpful recommendations:
- Consider hiring a transfer service if you plan to visit wineries and do tastings in a single day. Distances in the valley can be extensive, and driving can be exhausting.
- If you have the opportunity, stay at least one night. This will allow you to enjoy the day more, especially if you plan to drive on your own.
- Book in advance! Visits to wineries often have limited availability, especially during peak season. If you don’t book in advance, you risk missing out on some experiences.
- Don’t forget to bring warm clothing, even in summer. Nights in the valley tend to be cool, so be prepared for changing weather.