The Colchagua Valley, whose shape and fertility is decided by the beautiful River Tinguiririca, runs from the Andes towards the Pacific Ocean. The region is renowned for its wine, colonial architecture and hot springs. As one of Chile’s best-known wine regions, it has earned world renowned praise for its full-bodied red varietals, especially Carmenere. Surrounded by mountains on all sides and with a pleasantly warm and temperate climate, the lush landscape is wonderful to explore, and can be done so on horseback, by bicycle, helicopter, hot-air balloon or off-road in a 4x4 vehicle. Wonderful pieces of 16th century architecture (such as the famous Hacienda Los Lingues) is scattered throughout the valley. Visitors can also enjoy a dip at the natural hot springs at Flaco, or go surfing at nearby Santa Cruz.