Cafayate
The Main Town Of The Calchaqui Valleys Wine Region, Home Of High Altitude Torrontes, Reached Through The Quebrada De Las Conchas · Cafayate, Salta
Cafayate is a small adobe town in the Calchaqui Valleys of Salta province, at about 1,700 metres, and it is the heart of one of the highest wine regions in the world. Its grape is Torrontes, an aromatic white that grows better here than anywhere, and its reds, Malbec and Tannat, get their depth from altitude, sun and cold nights. Unlike Mendoza, many wineries sit within walking or cycling distance of the plaza and take visitors without appointment, which makes the town an easy place to taste. The road in from Salta is half the reason to come: the Quebrada de las Conchas, a gorge of red sandstone carved into cathedrals and amphitheatres, with stops at the Garganta del Diablo and the Anfiteatro, where musicians play for the acoustics. Around town are waterfalls at Rio Colorado, the white sand dunes at Los Medanos, and the Ruta 40 running north to Cachi. The town square has the usual cathedral, craft shops and ice cream made with wine. Two or three nights here is the right pace.
Plaza San Martin, Cafayate, Salta, Cafayate, Salta, A4427, Argentina
Wineries in and around town receive visitors through the day, closing for a midday break at some; many do not need appointments, unlike Mendoza. Shops keep siesta hours. The Quebrada de las Conchas viewpoints are open at all times from the road.