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::: Calchaquí Valleys: Premium altitude vineyards |
| Calchaquí Valleys: Premium altitude vineyards |
 The Calchaqui Valleys wine-making region is situated in a geography carved by winds and the sun. Located to the south-west of the province of Salta, it is crossed over by the mythical 40 motorway (almost 5,000 km altogether), joining villages in Payogasta, to the north, and Tolombón, to the south. This circuit of 520 km is completed by other picturesque villages like Cafayate, Angastaco, Animaná, San Carlos, Seclantás, Molinos and Cachi, framed among rock formations of ravines and multicolored hills. The circuit can be started along 68 NM from Salta capital to Cafayate (186 km / 115.5 miles of asphalt), an enchanted road that goes through the Quebrada de las Conchas, or along 33 PM on the way to Cachi, which goes through the majestic Cuesta del Obispo (it reaches the 3,348 m ASL in its highest point) driving mostly through natural roads. It is also possible to approach Cafayate through the south, from Tucumán (Quilmes ruins) along 40 motorway, or consider the air access by means of Cafayate or Cachi airport. Enjoying the valleys deserves at least two days, although daily trips can be organized to Cachi or Cafayate. The exquisite conjunction of climate, soil, vines, human experience and especially altitude (the highest vineyards in the world are located here, which go beyond the 3,000 m ASL) make this valley a wine-making oasis producing excellent wines of high quality. As well as wineries´ tours, craftsmanship´s circuits can be added, visiting the common markets or their own workshops, mainly pottery or loom weaving. The archeological legacy of ancient civilizations is another region bastion. Llamas, vicuñas, thistles, mountains, typical gastronomy, crafts, wineries, altitude vineyards, villages frozen in time and its people, make the Calchaqui Valleys a memorable experience. |
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