For outdoor enthusiasts looking to get off the beaten path and explore the natural environment of Argentina there is much to do and see. Argentina has so much geographic diversity it makes for a great country to go on some of the best outdoor excursions. One highlight of my adventure outings here has to be hiking the Cordon del Plata along the Argentinian Andes Range from Valle de Sol which is in the Mendoza province. Valle del Sol is in an area called Porterillos that has less than 6,000 residents (Valle del Sol only has about 40)!
Valle del Sol is an area of Porterellos that is off the beaten path so it was great to find what turned out to be an amazing bed and breakfast here that offers excursions into the Andes with someone who loves and cares about the area, but also is knowledgeable about the history and characteristics of the land. The bed and breakfast is called the Silver Cord Bed and Breakfast which even has a great view of the snow capped Andes. While there are different levels of trails that can begin, the hikes here are not difficult, but the trails are not always marked. The owner of Silver Cord, Adrien, took us on a day hike after breakfast hoping to see Andean Condors!
Adrien’s wife, Sonia who is a master cook, packed lunch for us and it was such a refreshing lunch. Sandwiches made with homemade bread, grilled zucchini, squash, tomato, and an herb spread.
One thing we were really wanted was to see Andean Condors from as close as possible. Adrien is familiar with where they are during the day based on currents so we were hopping to make some serious eye contact with the condors. There were several flying overhead showing off their massive wingspan which was so impressive.
Things to Do Near Valle del Sol, Mendoza
Sadly we were only in Valle del Sol for one whole day and we only got a taste of the adventures that are possible to experience. Silver Cord Bed and Breakfast actually organizes excursions to different parts of the valley on horseback as well as by trekking that usually end with an authentic asado right there in the mountains. They have a great relationship with an Andean gaucho in town that hosts horseback riding for guests and any one else that wants to participate.
If it’s a white winter, another option is to check out the Penitentes and Vallecitos ski resorts! One of the summer trails they sometime hike out on are to the ski resorts for some of the most epic views.
Other Must-Sees While in Potrerillos:
- Potrerillos Lake
- Circuit Barreal and San Juan Calingasta
- Cerro Aconcagua
- Uco Valley Vineyards and Wineries
Where to Stay
There are several accommodations in Valle del Sol, but I highly recommend Silver Cord Bed and Breakfast which is open during low and high season. Each accommodation they offer feels personal and welcoming with thoughtful touches put into the design.
How to Get to Valle del Sol, Potrerillos from Mendoza City Center:
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to get to Valle del Sol without hiring a driver is by getting on the Buttini Bus at the bus station that is headed towards Piedras Blancas. The best thing to do is let the bus driver know you are headed to Valle del Sol and he will let you know when you are there. It takes about 2 hours to get to Valle del Sol, but once you get on the main highway, you’re left with nothing but beautiful scenery. A bus ticket can be purchased in advance and it’s $28.50 ARS pesos each way.
If you would like to book an excursion with a guide in Valle del Sol, I highly recommend and trust Adrien and his partners from Silver Cord Bed and Breakfast. Adrien speaks fluent English and knows the valley like the back of his hand. To make a reservation at their bed and breakfast or for an excursion you can book through Booking.com or by emailing them at info@silvercordbb.com.ar.
Special thanks to Adrien and Sonia from Silver Cord Bed and Breakfast for making this excursion possible!
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The scenery is stunning. .. looks like a good hike 🙂 id love to hike there too
It was very refreshing
This looks amazing. The views must be beautiful. Makes all that hiking worth it 🙂
That sounds like such a great hike with the scenery, condors and homemade lunch!
It was all great! and tasty 🙂
LOVE your photos . . . they look vintage 🙂 🙂 I was only in Buenos Aires when I went to Argentina but would love to go back and do some amazing hiking like this!
Thank you Alli! I love Buenos Aires a lot but if you ever do come back to Argentina, you must, absolutely must head over to the east and check out the mountains. There are vineyards in the foothills, snow on the peaks and just phenomenal trails. You’ll love it!
The views were epic, just mountain beyond mountains and lakes. So worth it 🙂