Things to do in and around the area
The name Chacras de Coria originated in 1615 when an encomienda* settled the place. The owner, Don Bohorquez de Coria, created the first small farms “chacras”. Soon they were known by the locals as the “Chacras de don Coria”; a name that stuck.
Chacras de Coria lies on the outskirts of Mendoza but is nowhere near as crowded or busy. The small town is known for its restaurants, markets and proximity to small wineries. The moderate, year-round dry climate, makes Chacras a favourite destination for all seasons.
Large trees line the streets providing seasonal beauty and natural comfort. You can still find the occasional old “chacras”: boutique vineyards and small family wineries. With the passing of time, the residential areas have acquired a variety of architectural styles, ranging from large traditional houses to ultra-modern homes and exquisite mansions, all with the Andean peaks Mercedario and Tupungato, forming a dramatic backdrop.
Exploring Chacras
Plaza Gerónimo Espejo is the main square of Chacras – it still holds its traditional function of “town centre” for your daily needs. Here, you will find the baker, butcher, deli, wine and convenience stores along with bistros and fine dining restaurants. It’s also the “meeting place” for locals and a great spot to visit on Sundays. In addition to the artists, artisans and antique dealers selling their crafts and antiques, there are entertainers offering music, puppet shows, pony rides and other entertainment.
Located opposite the plaza is the architectural beauty of the Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro Church. Built in 1935, it stands out amidst the landscape. Regular Sunday mass is heard both inside and outside the church. Visitors are welcome to view the magnificent stone altar carved in the Mendocino-Colonial style.
Scroll down for our winery recommendations – and for additional winery information, please visit: Wines of Argentina and Mendoza Wineries.
Wineries and Wine Tours
Within 2 kilometers of Villa Viamonte
CLOS DE CHACRAS
A boutique winery offering guided historical tours and serving an excellent tasting menu lunch
ALTA VISTA
A respectfully restored winery; tours; great reds, and a beautiful Torrontes the classic Argentine white
ROSELL BOHER
Classic sparkling winery
BODEGA PULMARY and CHACRAS BREWING
Casual and local – if the gate is open, walk in and meet Romiro
FINCA ADELGESA
Just 50 meters from the Villa, they have a tiny vineyard and winery in addition to a Tapas restaurant. Reference Villa Viamonte and book ahead for evening Tapas, or request their chef cook for you in their outdoor demo-kitchen
Within 20 minutes drive of Villa Viamonte
MATERVINI
Explore Malbec crafted from several unique terroirs
ACHAVAL FERRER
Highly rated reds and neighbors to our Versado malbec; excellent tour and olive oil
VINA COBOS
Most highly rated wines in Argentina, and arguably the world
RUCA MALEN
Very good wines and excellent tasting menu for lunch – reservations required
FINCA DECERO
Good wines and restaurant with excellent view – reservations required
CATENA ZAPATA
Internationally famous
Uco Valley – day trip required
Note: These are the spectacular ones to see in the Uco Valley. 100km away, but well worth doing the tour. The architecture at Salentein and O’Fournier, and many others, is amazing.
SALENTEIN
Includes restaurant for lunch, art collection and amazing architecture
BODEGA SUPER UCO
Innovative wines made by the Michelini Brothers
ZORZAL WINES
Located in the centre of Gualtallary
O’FOURNIER
Includes restaurant for lunch and dinner, art collection and amazing architecture.
CLOS DE LOS SIETE
This winery actually houses several French-owned wineries on one vineyard site: Cuvelier, Monteviejo (now with a restaurant), Bodega Clos de los Siete, and DiamAndes