The National Harvest Festival: a tribute to wine and an unforgettable celebration

In Mendoza, one of the most important festivals in the country is held every year. Learn about its history and all the details of the celebration.

The National Harvest Festival is history, tradition and the most representative emblem of the province of Mendoza. For several days, these lands celebrate the grape harvest and wine production, one of the most important economic activities in Argentina, and which marks the culture of the province. Every year, thousands of travelers decide to visit Mendoza to enjoy the events and be part of a party that celebrates the production of Argentina’s national drink: wine.

At the end of February and beginning of March of each year, the National Harvest Festival invites you to be part of events that happen only in Mendoza. There are almost ten weeks in which events are held to learn about the traditions and culture that make up the identity of the province. But the celebration of the vine does not begin in these weeks, but from December each provincial department celebrates its Festival that culminates in the Central Act of the National Harvest Festival.

At Rentennials we want you to know in depth this event that is an identity mark of Mendoza. For this reason, we provide you with all the information about the history, tradition and culture of the National Harvest Festival.

Why is the harvest celebrated?

The harvest is the time of the grape harvest. In Argentina it takes place from January to March, depending on the type of grape strain. During these months, hundreds of workers begin to collect and select the best grapes, which will then be used for the production of wine or the consumption of the fruit.

This is the culmination of a year-long effort by wine producers and workers dedicated to caring for this fruit that requires special attention. The climate in Mendoza is very pleasant, but it can also become inhospitable: frost, wind, cold and even snow can ruin hundreds of hectares of vineyards.

In the past, this care required great attention, work and rustic techniques that could fail. Today, although technology allows us to reduce the dangers of a bad harvest, it is still necessary to have a great commitment and effort to protect the crops. Therefore, reaching the time of grape harvest with the vineyards in optimal conditions continues to be an achievement that deserves a memorable celebration. Furthermore, even today, to harvest the vine hundreds of workers are needed since it is a manual activity that cannot be replaced by a machine.

For the Province of Mendoza, the grape harvest is not only part of an economic activity, but it is also a popular festival that combines love for the land and gratitude for work and effort. In other words, the grape harvest is fundamental to the identity of the people of Mendoza.

Over the years, the National Harvest Festival has become the most important National Festival in the country and the highest cultural expression of this time of year.

A little history of the grape harvest celebration

Although the National Harvest Festival began to be officially celebrated in the 1930s, small celebrations to celebrate the grape harvest were held since colonial times.

Knowing the history of this festival allows us to understand even more the importance of this date for Argentine viticulture and society.

When was the first National Harvest Festival?

It was not until the beginning of the 20th century that an attempt was made to officially organize a celebration. In part, it was because European immigration gave another form to the celebrations of harvest time. It was on April 11, 1913 when the Harvest Festival was organized. It was the first time that allegorical floats paraded, something that continues to this day.

It was not until 1936 that the National Harvest Festival was held officially for the first time. Governor Guillermo Cano, through Provincial Decree No. 87, institutionalized this celebration. On April 18, 1936, some emblematic events began that continue to this day. The parade of floats in the roundabout of the San Martín National Park; artistic shows; and the election of the first Queen of the Grape Harvest at the Gimnasia y Esgrima Club. The chronicles say that some 50 thousand people attended the time when Delia Larrive Escudero was elected as the first queen, a young woman who lived in Godoy Cruz.

Today, many of these events continue to be fundamental in the National Grape Harvest Festival. Tradition, history and the economic importance of wine production come together in a few days that deserve to be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

And the best thing is that from December onwards, the grape harvest can be experienced in every corner of the province.

What is the National Grape Harvest Festival like?

The National Grape Harvest Festival is much more than the two days in which the best artists are invited to participate in a unique show at the Greek Theatre in General San Martín Park. Although everything ends here, a few days before there are emblematic events that are transcendental milestones of the Grape Harvest Festival.

The celebration begins with the Blessing of the Fruits and continues, a few days later, with the Harvest Festival. Then, on the Friday and Saturday before the grand finale, the Vía Blanca and the Carousel take place, two emblematic parades. Finally, everything culminates with the Central Act at the Greek Theater. This tour of events gradually immerses the visitor in the traditions and identity of these lands.

The traditional events of the National Harvest Festival

Each of the events has its characteristics and its representation. Therefore, the importance of maintaining the succession of the celebrations so that the visitor understands and becomes more familiar with the meaning of each day.

Federal Walk

A few days before the beginning of the National Harvest Festival, this cultural meeting of all the departments of the province takes place. It is usually at the San Vicente grounds, where there is music and dances from all over Mendoza.

In addition, it is possible to taste the local gastronomy and learn about the regional products and crafts that many entrepreneurs from Mendoza have to offer.

Blessing of the Fruits

This is the celebration that inaugurates the National Harvest Festival. The Virgin of Carrodilla -protector of the vineyards- is the central figure. A joint prayer is said by all religious creeds to give thanks for the wine of the new year and wish the best for the next harvest.

In addition, the coup de reja is performed, a symbol of the efforts of the workers and producers of Mendoza. Here, everyone from the governor of the province, different productive sectors to the current Harvest Queen usually participate.

It is usually the Sunday before the Central Act.

Harvest Festival

Between the Blessing of the Fruits and the Central Act, one of the most anticipated shows is celebrated: The Harvest Festival. It is an event that brings together hundreds of people in an open-air concert with dance and music. In addition, the best wines from Mendoza (and therefore from the world) are tasted. It is a tribute to the work of winemakers, producers and those who are in the field on a daily basis.

It has been taking place at the Plumerillo International Airport for some time now.

Vía Blanca

On the night before the Central Act, a beautiful route takes place in the central streets of the city. It is a night parade of the departmental queens who travel the main avenues in floats. They themselves are the ones who will later compete in the election of the National Queen of the Grape Harvest.

You have to be very attentive: as they pass by, they throw fruits and regional products to the public. It is an event that unites the entire Mendoza community and can be enjoyed for free.

Each year the parade can modify its route slightly, but it is always held in the center of the capital.

 Carousel

The morning after the Vía Blanca, and hours before the Central Act, another iconic moment of this National Holiday takes place. In this event, not only the cars that refer to the Vía Blanca pass through, but also the Vendimia and the departmental queens, but the traditionalist centers, communities and artistic groups. The diversity, customs and traditions make this day the cultural identity of the people of Mendoza.

Like the Vía Blanca, it takes place in the center of the city and is free.

Central Act of the National Harvest Festival

The long-awaited day has arrived. On Saturday night, at the Frank Romero Day Greek Theater, popular artists from all the arts are called to participate in an unforgettable moment. The shows that are performed each year are unique and change their name, script and repertoire. But they always have something in common: the reference to the magical moment of the harvest, the production of wine and everything that this means for the province. Of course, the protagonists are the singing, the dancing, the music and the performances that are complemented by beautiful light and sound effects.

In addition, on this same day the National Harvest Queen is chosen.

An important fact: the Saturday show is repeated on Sunday night.

The election of the National Queen of the Grape Harvest

The National Queen of the Grape Harvest is the woman chosen to represent the province and winemaking at official events or different events relevant to this economic activity. She is part of the culture of the province, which is why her election is of fundamental importance during the National Festival.

The 18 departmental Queens participate (previously chosen at the departmental Festivals) and are voted on by a group of juries.

Who usually votes? The 18 mayors of the province of Mendoza, the director of the Central Event, the Commission of Queens and Vice Queens, representatives of accredited media outlets and some members of the public chosen by drawing lots.

Once the chosen one is revealed, the coronation takes place. This is a culminating moment: the previous Queen passes the crown and the grape harvest scepter to the new National Queen of the Grape Harvest.

Both the election and the coronation take place on the day of the Central Act at the Greek Theatre.

The departmental Harvest Festivals, a celebration that begins in December

From December, the departments of the province of Mendoza begin to celebrate the harvest season and the effort of the work that was done during the year. The regions of the province show their own traditions and essence through art and culture, paying tribute to the winemaking activity. Each season they usually put on a different show with a special theme that reflects the local identity. At the end of the departmental Festival, the harvest queen of each town is chosen, who will then compete with the other representatives to become the National Harvest Queen.

This tour of the province is a bridge that ends at the great National Harvest Festival.

Where are the departmental Festivals?

Each year the departments of the province organize and establish a calendar of activities to enjoy the events in the main towns. Usually, it is possible to check the calendar on the official website of the province of Mendoza.

The schedule changes from year to year, but these are the departments of the province that celebrate:

• Guaymallén
• Luján de Cuyo
• Malargüe
• La Paz
• Junín
• Lavalle
• San Rafael
• San Martín
• San Carlos
• Rivadavia
• Tunuyán
• Las Heras
• General Alvear
• Ciudad de Mendoza
• Santa Rosa
• Tupungato
• Maipú
• Godoy Cruz

Tips for experiencing the National Harvest Festival

These days the province dresses up for a party. It is one of the most anticipated moments for thousands of Mendoza residents, national and foreign tourists. As it could not be otherwise, many people decide to visit these lands, which makes it very necessary to organize the trip in advance.

Here are some tips to live the National Harvest Festival to the fullest:

• Book your accommodation in advance.
• To visit nearby wineries, whether in Luján de Cuyo, Maipú or Valle de Uco, it is best to have a guaranteed place.
• Rent a car to move around freely and visit the must-see places in the province.
• At night, the best restaurants in the city fill up, so it is best to call ahead to secure a table or go early.

Buy tickets to the National Harvest Festival

For the free activities, it is not necessary to book, but it is essential to buy tickets for the Central Act, which are purchased online. To find out when they go on sale and their prices, you can visit the social networks of the National Harvest Festival.

Enjoy the National Harvest Festival with Rentennials

National Festivals are an emblem of Argentina, and the National Harvest Festival is one of the greatest cultural expressions in which it is enjoyed to the fullest. Deciding to be part of it is very simple: book your accommodation, buy your ticket and live an unforgettable experience with Rentennials.

Puerto Madryn and Valdés Peninsula: 7 unmissable tips for getting to know the best marine fauna

In the province of Chubut you will find paradise to get close to whales, walk among penguins and swim with sea lions

Are you looking for a trip with a full connection with nature? There is a destination in Argentina that can give you a complete experience: Puerto Madryn and Valdés Peninsula. You will experience whale watching, sailing with dolphins, snorkeling with sea lions and walking among penguins. In just 4 days you can enjoy these activities and much more.

It all starts with renting a car in Puerto Madryn or Trelew. From there, you can explore the surroundings of the beautiful coastal city and head towards the Valdés Peninsula and the vastness of the Patagonian steppe. At your own pace, in your own way and without depending on anything other than your desire to experience unique moments.

So that you can explore the best of the Patagonian Sea by car, at Rentennials we offer you these tips with all the information you need to know to enjoy it at all times.

 1. Fly to Puerto Madryn

If you are planning a short trip to Puerto Madryn, then it is best to take a plane to the city of Puerto Madryn or Trelew. Depending on the season, you may have to stop in Buenos Aires if you are leaving from a city in another province.

Trelew and Puerto Madryn are only 65 km apart, so the two cities are good alternatives to start your trip. We leave you with a recommendation: try to arrive as early as possible, so you can enjoy an extra day of travel or, failing that, the night before.

2. Rent a car in Puerto Madryn or Trelew

For travelers looking for peace, to manage their time and do the activities they really want, there’s nothing like renting a car in Puerto Madryn or Trelew and starting your trip. The distances are very short between each place and the roads are in good condition. In addition, driving through the landscapes of the Patagonian steppe has a special magic.

In Peninsula Valdés, the roads are gravel, but going slowly and taking your time you won’t have any problems.

3. Touring Peninsula Valdés by car

A World Heritage Site, Peninsula Valdés is one of the best places in Argentina to contemplate the incredible marine fauna. From August to November you have the southern right whales, a Natural Monument of Argentina. The rest of the year, you will enjoy the penguins, orcas, porpoises, sea lions and elephant seals.

To get to know the Valdés Peninsula in depth, the best way is to travel around it by car. You will stop wherever you want and observe the marine animals for as long as you have time.

 Ameghino Isthmus

Upon entering the Valdés Peninsula, and after paying the entrance ticket, you will find the Ameghino Isthmus. There is an interpretive center where you can get to know the fauna you will encounter on the tour in depth.

In addition, from here there is a small path to the viewpoint of the Isla de los Pájaros, a formation that rises from the sea and in which Saint-Exupéry was inspired for the boa and the elephant. Right there is the Historic Chapel of the San José Fort, a replica of a construction from the late 18th century.

Puerto Pirámides

This small town is an excellent option for lodging and, from here, to tour the peninsula. In addition, boats leave for whale watching. It has an interesting offer of hotels, cabins and hostels and innovative gastronomic proposals.

Here, you will find the tranquility of an old fishing village. Walking through its streets with the traditional buildings of the Patagonian coast takes you back to the past.

Also, from Puerto Pirámides you can take different bike rides and guided trails to learn more about the Patagonian steppe.

Whale Watching

From Puerto Pirámides, whale watching excursions are carried out. There are different options, from the tour with a traditional boat to the submarine boat, which has a lower part to see the whales from “inside the sea”.

Here we leave you the companies authorized to carry out the nautical trips.

Caleta Valdés

Along the internal roads of the Peninsula, you will reach Caleta Valdés. Here you will find the elephant seals and a colony of Magellanic penguins. During breeding season, you can also see orcas.

It is 75 km from Pirámides, on a gravel road. In the area there is a restaurant and a place to have lunch. In addition, you can stay overnight at La Elvira Natural Lodge, a ranch with accommodation and Patagonian cuisine.

Punta Norte and Estancia San Lorenzo

Punta Norte is another highlight of the Peninsula. You will visit the You can also meet sea lions and elephant seals. During the breeding season, you can also see orcas (between February and May).

Estancia San Lorenzo is home to one of the largest colonies of Magellanic penguins in the world. To enter, you have to pay an entrance fee and the entire visit must be done with a guide. In addition, there is a food and lodging service.

To get there, you have to drive about 80 km on gravel from Puerto Pirámides.

How to travel around the Valdés Peninsula

All the internal roads on the peninsula are gravel, so you have to go slowly and choose the points you want to visit. Generally, it is best to go to Caleta Valdés one day and Punta Norte the next. Connecting the two points in one day is possible, but keep in mind that driving many kilometers on gravel can be tiring. Also, you have to go slowly because of the local fauna.

Because of this, a good option is to spend a few nights in Puerto Pirámides. It is a different experience and has many accommodations of various styles and prices.

We leave you a map of a suggested route through the Valdés Peninsula

 4. What to do in Puerto Madryn by car (and in the surroundings)

Puerto Madryn is a beautiful city facing the sea and known as the National Capital of Diving. Its crystal-clear waters allow you to enjoy this activity. In summer, its beaches are famous for the calm sea and, throughout the year, it has much to enjoy.

The best thing is to dedicate two or three days to the city to go to the nearby places that will not cease to surprise you: a beach where whales come close to just a few meters, a tour of the steppe to reach Punta Tombo and walk among the penguins. And finish with a Welsh tea in Gaiman.

El Doradillo

Between August and November, in the El Doradillo Protected Natural Area, you will be able to see whales from the beach. During high tide, these fantastic animals come so close to the coast that they can be observed without binoculars.

To get there, you only have to drive about 13 km north. From Puerto Madryn, you can also book whale watching excursions.

 Get to know Puerto Madryn’s history

In addition to nature, the city has a rich history. In the Punta Cueva Historical Park there is the Museo del Desembarco. This site tells how the Welsh came to inhabit these lands and their encounter with the native communities. From Monday to Friday it opens from 5 pm to 9 pm. Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am until the end of the day (closed from 1 pm to 5 pm).

If you want to learn more about the history of the area, visit the Juan Meisen Ebene Museum, which is located in what used to be the railway station.

Diving and snorkelling with sea lions

In Puerto Madryn there are several areas where you can dive and enjoy a dive in the Argentine sea. Another option, for which you do not need previous experience, is to swim with the sea lions while snorkelling. The sea lions get so close to you that you will not be able to believe what you are experiencing.

For both experiences, contact the authorised providers in advance.

Punta Loma Sea Lion Reserve

16 km south of Puerto Madryn, this reserve preserves and protects sea lions. There is a viewing point to observe the fauna and a trail to learn about the flora of the Patagonian coast.

There is an entrance fee and it is recommended to go at the last hour before it closes.

 Gaiman and Welsh tea

On the coast of the Chubut River and 80 km from Puerto Madryn, is the town of Gaiman, a Welsh colony and one of the most beautiful towns in the world. It is known for its tea houses, but don’t miss walking through its streets, seeing the chapels and Welsh buildings. In addition, you can visit the Gaimán railway tunnel. Today it is an interesting visit to learn about the history of the region.

In the afternoon, many decide to have tea in one of its traditional Welsh houses. Go after a light lunch because the service is very plentiful. Some options to spend the afternoon are:

Plas y Coed

Casa de Té Gaiman

Nain Glenys

Ty Gwyn

Ty Cymraeg Gaiman

A recommendation: choose one that does not receive contingents of tourists so you can enjoy yourself in peace. You can call beforehand and ask.

If you like to sleep in a place with complete peace, in Gaiman there are accommodations that are usually cheaper than those in Puerto Madryn.

Trelew and Rawson

The provincial capital and its neighbor Trelew have attractions that are worth visiting for a day. In Trelew you will find the Egidio Feruglio Museum, a favorite of the little ones. In this Patagonian region many remains of dinosaurs and fossils of different types have been found, and this museum condenses many of these findings. You can buy the entrance ticket in advance.

Rawson, just a few kilometers from Trelew, has the traditional Playa Unión as one of its places worth visiting in summer. In addition, from the port of Rawson Boats leave for the sighting of toninas, the dolphins of the Argentine sea.

Both cities are located about 70 km south of Puerto Madryn on National Route 3.

5. Walk among penguins in Punta Tombo

Between the months of September to April you can walk among the Magellanic penguins and be very close to them. The Punta Tombo Provincial Wildlife Reserve is in charge of protecting the largest penguin colony in the world. You can see their nests, how the little ones change their plumage (in November) and the behavior of these animals.

There is a 3 km trail of very low difficulty that is combined with viewpoints to contemplate the Patagonian sea.

How to get to Punta Tombo from Puerto Madryn

From Puerto Madryn to Punta Tombo is 188 km. Take National Route 3 until the intersection with Provincial Route 75. From there, continue to the entrance of the reserve, where the road becomes gravel (Provincial Route 1). You can check the map here.

It is best to leave early in the morning and arrive at Punta Tombo around mid-morning or midday. On the way back, you can combine it with a cup of tea in Gaiman.

6. Check the marine fauna calendar

To travel to Puerto Madryn and Peninsula Valdés, it is essential that you check the marine fauna calendar to organize your itinerary.

June to December: the southern right whales.

Mid-September to mid-April: the Magellanic penguins.

March and May: the orcas

July: the elephant seals begin to arrive.

All year round: sea lions and porpoises

And you will always be able to see guanacos, choiques, foxes and other animals of the Patagonian steppe

7. Choose the best time to travel to Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn and the Valdés Peninsula are beautiful places all year round. If you are looking for more heat and a bit of beach, November is the best month. However, you will miss out on getting close to the whales.

To see the whales, the best months are September or October, when almost all the marine fauna appears. Keep in mind that these months are the high season, so prices are more expensive.

Tour Puerto Madryn and the Valdés Peninsula with Rentennials

Discovering the marine fauna of the Patagonian sea is an unforgettable experience. And even more so if you do it at your own time, at your own pace and with the calm that a trip deserves.

To get to know the best of Puerto Madryn, renting a car with Rentennials is an option that makes everything easy for you. From the moment you quote your car to the return. Simple, easy and affordable. Plus, it allows you to connect with hosts and explore places you wouldn’t otherwise.

Barreal and El Leoncito under the most starry sky in Argentina

In San Juan you will visit Barreal and El Leoncito National Park, guardian of the best nights in Argentina.

In the province of San Juan, at the foot of the imposing Andes Mountains, lies the town of Barreal. A small town where peace pervades its streets, ideal for spending a few days of complete tranquility. Just a few kilometers away is El Leoncito National Park, one of the best places for astrotourism in Argentina. On a night visit, the experience of seeing the stars in a dark sky becomes unforgettable.

In addition, wineries, horseback riding and bicycle rides are activities that complement rest, enjoying unique views of the mountains. And if you are looking for something more adventurous, land sailing in Pampa El Leoncito and trekking to the turquoise stream are excellent options.

So that you can explore the best of Barreal by car, at Rentennials we provide you with all the information you need to know to get there and enjoy it.

Where is Barreal, San Juan

The town of Barreal is located in the southwest of the province of San Juan. Close to the border with Mendoza, this small town offers one of the best views of the Ansilta Mountain Range, a mountain range within the Andes Mountain Range system. The Patos River gives a special magic to these beautiful panoramas.

If your idea is also to do wine tourism, Barreal and nearby Calingasta are two options that meet all the expectations of travelers: good wines, gastronomy and quality service. And not only that, there is also a variety of activities, such as bike rides, horseback riding, rafting and much more.

How to get to Barreal from Mendoza

The first thing is to rent a car in Mendoza and then begin the trip to the province of San Juan. To get to Barreal, take National Route 40 to the city of San Juan. From there, continue to the intersection with Provincial Route 436 and turn left until you come across National Route 149 to Calingasta. You have to continue for about 120 km more and you will come across Barreal. About 40 km before is the town of Calingasta.

Here you can find the map to get to Barreal from Mendoza. It is 378 km and is all asphalt in good condition.

Something important to keep in mind! Google Maps suggests that the road from Mendoza to Barreal is via Uspallata and National Route 149. This route has a large stretch of gravel (even sand) that is in poor condition. Although it is shorter, with a low car you will probably have many problems getting there. If you decide to do it, it is best to go in a 4×4 truck.

 How to get to Barreal from San Juan

Another option is to rent a car in the city of San Juan and start the trip. From the capital you have to go along National Route 40 until the intersection with RP 436. From this point follow the directions explained in the section above. 

Here you can find the map to get to Barreal from San Juan. The total distance is 212 km. El Leoncito National Park

Created in 2002, El Leoncito National Park serves the function of taking care of the starry skies. It is one of the areas with the fewest cloudy days in the country: about 300 clear nights per year. This makes it a unique place for astrotourism. On the other hand, great care is taken to ensure that there is no light pollution in the surroundings so that researchers can do their work.

In addition, the Park is not only a place to enjoy astronomical tourism, but also has several trails to explore and get to know its particular environment. The mountain range is combined with plains and some oases.

Where is El Leoncito National Park?

It is located just 30 km from the city of Barreal. To get there, take National Route 149 south to the access and turn left. Then, continue along a dirt access where you have to be careful, but you can get there safely.

 What observatories are there within El Leoncito National Park?

There are two renowned observatories in the National Park: the Carlos Ulrrico Cesco Astronomical Station (CESCO) and the El Leoncito Astronomical Complex (CASLEO). Both have specific days and times to enjoy nighttime observations.

Key tip: plan your itinerary in advance so you don’t miss the opportunity to visit the National Park and its observatories.

Carlos Ulrrico (Cesco) Astronomical Station

This station depends on the Félix Aguilar Astronomical Observatory, located in the town of Barreal. It is a great alternative to enjoy astronomical tourism activities within the National Park.

Guided tours, along with night observations, take place from Thursday to Sunday, starting during the day, you can visit the observatory at 8:30 p.m. You must book a time in advance on the Cesco website. At the end of the experience, you must return to your accommodation in Barreal.

 El Leoncito Astronomical Center (CASLEO)

This observatory, which is part of CONICET, is perhaps the most outstanding of the two. During the day, you can tour its facilities, while at night, they offer astronomical observations. It is usual to arrive around 7 p.m. to take the guided tour, which includes a tour of the observatory. When night falls, you are invited to look at the sky through one of their external telescopes. At the end, you return to your accommodation in Barreal.

With some planning, there is the possibility of spending a night at CASLEO. On certain days and when there are no scientific activities, they open the accommodation for tourism, which includes dinner and breakfast.

In both cases, it is key to check the opening of quotas at the beginning of each month and make the reservation directly on the CASLEO website. On Fridays and Sundays, only observations are made, while on Mondays and Saturdays you can stay overnight.

 How to do astrotourism in El Leoncito

It is an activity suitable for the whole family and the intention is to discover an immense sky with the guidance of experts. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Don’t go without a reservation. Since there are only a few days, the places fill up quickly. Do you already know when you are traveling? Then start making your reservation now.

Bring a coat. Observations are made at night and temperatures drop considerably. In winter, we recommend that you be well equipped.

Don’t go on nights with a full moon. The further away you are from those dates, the better.

Being open to new, unknown experiences is essential for you to enjoy this unique visit in Argentina.

What to do in Barreal

Whether before or after the astronomical tourism experience in the National Park, you can do many activities or, if you prefer, rest in the accommodations in Barreal.

Here we tell you everything you can do in this beautiful area of ​​San Juan.

Land sailing in Pampa El Leoncito

Do you like speed and wind? Then Barreal is the best option for you. In Pampa El Leoncito, a plain that was once a lagoon thousands of years ago, you can practice land sailing. It is a sailboat driven by the strong winds of the region.

 You have to do it on windy days (but not too much) and, preferably, in the afternoon. Only hire authorized providers to ensure an experience with all the safety elements.

It is located in front of the National Park, so it is very easy to get to. A few days before you will know if you can do the activity, because the wind speed is known.

Trekking to the Turquoise Creek

After about eight hours of walking (medium difficulty), you will reach one of the most impressive water courses in the Cordillera. This is a stream that falls from the mountain and, due to its mineral properties, has a turquoise color.

To go trekking, you must go with a local guide. Find out about the options for hiking to the turquoise stream.

Horseback riding, rafting and bike rides

Tranquility invades the town of Barreal, and there is nothing like touring it on horseback or by bike. There are multiple options, but they are all half-day trips to get to know the area. Some include a country-style lunch.

Another option is rafting and kayaking on the Río de los Patos. The experiences are of low difficulty and suitable for the whole family.

Trails in El Leoncito National Park

If you want silence and only to hear the sound of the fauna, then before going to the El Leoncito observatory, walk the trails in the National Park. There you can walk through the arid landscape and, perhaps, come across foxes and guanacos. 

The trails in El Leoncito National Park close at 7 pm, so it is advisable to arrive around 4 or 5 pm to be able to enjoy them in their entirety. After touring them, you can try astrotourism.

Wineries in Barreal

The wine tourism circuit in Barrial is incipient and increasingly offers better places for those who want to taste San Juan wines and have lunch with views of the mountain range. 

Here we leave you only a few options. Always call before going to make a reservation (not all offer lunch service).

Bodega Entre Tapias

Bodega Los Dragones

Bodega Cara Sur

Remember that if you drink alcohol, it is best to leave your car at your hotel and go by remise or taxi to the wineries.

Where to stay in Barreal

This is an area where tourism has grown a lot in recent years, which means that there is an increasing supply of accommodation. There is something for all budgets and styles, from hostels, boutique hotels and cabins.

Any advice? In summer, book a room One with a pool. And all year round, look for one that has a direct view of the mountain range.

When to visit Barreal and El Leoncito National Park

It is one of the destinations that can be visited all year round, but there are better times than others. In summer, as in the entire Cuyo area, temperatures tend to be high, although with a dry heat. In winter, the nights are very cold, which can make stargazing difficult.

The best time to visit Barreal is in autumn and spring. 

 Get to know San Juan and Barreal with Rentennials

Another destination that, if you don’t know yet, you have to start planning your trip now: stars, wines, horseback riding, rafting. And all very close to the city of Mendoza and the capital of San Juan.

The best way to get around Barreal is by car. At your own pace, with your interests, and knowing that there is always time for rest and for the activities that you like the most. The roads are well maintained and you will experience driving through beautiful landscapes. Renting a car with Rentennials allows you to connect with hosts and discover places you might not otherwise get to.