Decanter’s Dream Destination: Entre Cielos, Mendoza, Argentina

Right in the heart of Vistalba’s wine route, Entre Cielos sits a stone’s throw from some of Argentina’s most revered wineries and offers the ideal place to unwind after a day of tasting.

Vineyard views, the towering Andes on the horizon, and imbibing a glass of chilled Torrontés by the serene pool are all part of Entre Cielos’ countryside charm.

Soak in a tub of Malbec

But its real distinction is the hammam – the first in Latin America and still the finest spa in Mendoza. If you want nothing more than to soothe tired muscles or revive parched skin after a day in the vineyards, the series of warm waters, steam chambers and local olive oil scrubs will leave you instantly renewed.

For those who like their wine inside and out, spa treatments use grape seeds as exfoliants – and even include a Malbec bath.

The hammam is an indulgence that fuses East and West, incorporating the rituals of Morocco with the ingredients and natural resources of Mendoza.

In September it was named Best Accommodation in Mendoza at the regional Great Wine Capitals Awards – the second time it has been crowned with that accolade – and it is easy to see why Entre Cielos’ appeal remains strong since first opening in 2009.

Try your hand at harvest

Mendoza’s wine regions are vast, so choosing the right base is essential. Entre Cielos offers the perfect balance: surrounded by vineyards, with several wineries within walking distance and the rest of Luján de Cuyo a short drive away. The Uco Valley is still about an hour by car, and Mendoza city under 30 minutes, but you’re also just minutes from leafy Chacras de Coria with its lively mix of restaurants and bars.

The estate’s vines are vinified by neighbouring Nieto Senetiner and contribute to the prized DOC Malbec – Luján de Cuyo is one of only two DOCs in Argentina. The vines weave their way through the property, inviting you to get up close and cosy; and each March guests can even join in the harvest and pick grapes alongside the team.

Sleep and sustenance

But for those who prefer to keep a cool distance from getting their hands dirty, perhaps the best way to appreciate the grapes is from above – while sleeping in one of the vineyard lofts. Alongside 15 rooms in the central hotel, which is set among the gardens and pool, nine lofts float above the vines on stilts. The Limited Edition Loft Suite even comes with a private jacuzzi above the vineyards, so you can soak in the stars above – and hear the rustle of the vines beneath (you might have to momentarily turn off the bubbles to hear the vines!).

At your doorstep lie some of Mendoza’s top tables, including four Michelin-star restaurants – Brindillas, Zonda, Riccitelli Bistró and Angélica Cocina – with two more not far away, as well as plenty of casual options.

Closer still is Entre Cielos’ own Nube restaurant, a sumptuous space serving fusion cuisine from local ingredients. Burrata with pistachio hummus; roasted sweetbreads with grape syrup and pickled pomegranate; and fillet steak with coffee and cauliflower purée are just a few of the imaginative culinary creations coming from Nube’s kitchen. At least once a week, the terrace comes alive with a traditional asado (barbecue) experience, where you’ll learn the secrets of Argentina’s cuts – and become savvy about deciphering your vacio from your entraña.

The wine list spans Argentina’s icons and off-the-beaten-path finds, with enough variety to keep you exploring for weeks. Paired with the glorious Mendoza sunshine and vineyard views, it’s all too easy to linger at Entre Cielos a little longer.

For further information, see the Entre Cielos website.

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