Images courtesy of Hotel La Merced del Alto
As with all the best and most unique experiences in life, what you put in can greatly affect what you get out. Reaching the enchanting mountain village of Cachi – nestled within a valley surrounded by some of the highest mountains in South America – is a case in point.
It’s not an easy trek, but it’s a beautiful one, and after about 4.5 hours (from Salta city in the north of Argentina) and climbing a staggering 3 400 feet by way of a winding gravel road in beautiful light, and fresh, fresh air, a quaint oasis awaited – the kind most mainstream tourists miss completely.
Fortified and fuelled by generous helpings of perfectly prepared empanadas and tamales, washed down with with icy and refreshing Salta lager, we set out just after lunch and reached the inimitable Merced del Alto on the outskirts of Cachi just in time for dinner.
And what a dinner it was. More memorable local Malbecs were par for the course, accompanied by delicacies such as local lamb slow-cooked in an age-old tradition. We were enthralled. Lavish rooms, luscious linen and waking up in a postcard setting all resulted in us being loathe to leave.
Thankfully, we’re going to be treated to stays at two sister properties of Merced del Alto during the next week. Needless to say … we can’t wait. Riekie Human and Nikki Benatar