After a spectacular scenic drive through the Andes from Santiago to Mendoza I approached a dirt track. Veering off the highway I drove past expansive vineyards and followed a small creek lined by willow trees. A scene reminiscent of a backdrop from the childhood classic, The Wind in the Willows. Several minutes later I arrived at the majestic entrance to a property, just over 3 years old, named Cavas Wine Lodge.
Nestled within 60 acres of private land and surrounded by lushious green vineyards, are 14 private and free-standing adobe villas. Designed by Buenos Aires based Architects, these structures were formed to blend magically within the earthy tones of the land and the green vines.
Each villa has an enormous space of 970 sq. ft. Modern furnishings complement the interior, and outdoors on the terrace is your very own private plunge pool. To complete the al fresco experience is an outdoor shower, and a secret hideaway patio upstairs. Here you can spend the afternoon admiring the spectacular sights of the Andes mountains in the not-so-far-away distance. Or, enjoy a night-time rendezvous with your partner, gazing towards the stars above while sampling tapas and locally grown wines.
The main building of the property is home to the onsite restaurant serving exquisite, organically grown produce. One thing that had caught my attention at the restaurant and during my stay was the friendliness of the staff. Each member of staff ensured that every guest was treated like they were the only guest. Nothing was too much of a task and guests every needs were met. Including those of a gentleman requiring a single bottle of beer be delivered to his room. Now with promptness and a silver platter – that’s what I call service!
Open-air wine spa
Cavas Wine Lodge is the ideal destination for couples. When you and your significant other arrive for a weekend of romance why not start off with some treatments in the spa? The open-air courtyard of the spa has the look of a Moroccan bath house where you can enjoy the sauna or jazcuzzi. Or, you can indulge in my personal favourite and the signature treatment for the lodge, wine therapy.
My afternoon was spent relaxing with the “Express Wine Therapy” treatment. Firstly, the body is massaged with an invigorating crushed Malbec scrub. This is then followed by a lazy soak in a red wine filled claw-foot bath. Then after 20 or 30 minutes, just as you’re starting to fall asleep you are transferred to another treatment room for a soothing 45 minute massage, where you do indeed fall asleep!
For those who are not into the “spa scene” you can retreat to the lodge’s general lounge area where you will find a myriad of books to read, games to play and interesting art-works to view.
For the wine lovers, or those simply with an interest to learn, you can take part in the many wine related activities that can be organized by the staff. At night, enjoy a private dining experience in the underground cellar with over 250 featured wines – also a great space for events. Or a guided wine tasting session with a private sommelier.
Experience the harvest
From the 3rd of March 2009 the grape harvesting takes place for four weeks. Guests staying during this time are able to participate in the harvesting and learn all about the wine making process. In addition to this, the lodge’s concierge can organize other activities such as bike riding tours, picnics, hikes or white water rafting. The list is endless!
During the month of January 2009, Cavas Wine Lodge are offering a special promotion where bookings made for stays during April and May will receive a free upgrade to a corner room, valued at USD 120 per day. Reservations must be made through Unique Destinations free booking service. For more information and prices please visit our website at www.uniquedestinations.cl
In addition to this special, Cavas Wine Lodge and Unique Destinations will be running a competition where you can enter to win a 2 Night Accommodation Package for 2 people including breakfast. All you have to do is tell us: What is the signature spa treatment at Cavas Wine Lodge? Please email entries to info@uniquedestinations.cl before 30th January. The winner will be drawn on 31st January.
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