An enticing mix of historical architecture, picturesque views and sprawling vineyards await travellers to Salta, located in the lovely Lerma Valley in the Andean foothills. Simply wandering through the streets of the central city area will take you past a variety of impressive 18th and 19th-century buildings, including the neoclassical Cathedral of Salta, the ornate Church of Saint Francis and the Museum of High Mountain Archaeology – housing a collection of ancient Inca relics. Other popular attractions are the area’s array of exceptional wineries, and the panoramic views over the region visitors from the top of San Bernado Hill.
Cachi is a lovely little town located in the province of Salta in northwest Argentina. The ‘Jewel of the Calchaqui Valley’, Cachi boasts picturesque adobe (mud brick) architecture, spectacular highland scenery and popular local vineyards. While there are some lovely walks in and around Cachi, as well as horse riding opportunities, don’t miss the chance to take a day trip to the Parque Nacional Los Cardones, located just 40 kilometres away. This incredible National Park is home to rugged desert landscapes, towering cacti and interesting, colourful rock formations. Guided tours of the park are available and easily organised from Cachi. Finally, another must-see natural attraction near Cachi is the Quebrada de las Flechas (Ravine of the Arrows), an astounding area of jagged, vibrantly red rocks.
El Mollar is found in the province of Tucuman in northern Argentina. Just over 100 kilometres from the regional capital of San Miguel Tucuman, El Mollar makes a popular retreat with rich cultural sights and outdoor activities to enjoy. Don’t miss the Ruta del Artesano El Mollar, a tourist route where you can shop for local handicrafts handmade in the Tafi Valle, or the Les Menhires Museum of Archaeology, where you can view prehistoric menhirs (standing stones) recovered from this ancient area, some of which are three metres tall and date back as far as the year 500. Outdoor lovers, meanwhile, can look forward to activities such as boating, swimming, fishing and water-skiing at Dique la Angostura (Angostura Dam), and the peak of Nunorco Grande is a challenging but rewarding trek.
