Villavicencio

A historic mountain resort nestled in the Andes foothills north of Mendoza, featuring natural hot springs and stunning valley views at 1,750 meters elevation. The site is known for its natural mineral water, outdoor activities, and the architectural remains of an old luxury hotel from the early 1900s.

Things to do

• Soak in Natural Hot Springs — Immerse yourself in the mineral-rich thermal pools fed by underground springs, believed to have therapeutic properties and surrounded by Andean peaks.
• Explore the Abandoned Hotel Ruins — Wander through the architectural remnants of the early 1900s luxury resort, a testament to Villavicencio's Belle Époque heyday when it catered to Argentine elite.
• Hiking Through Andean Foothills — Trek the mountain trails surrounding the resort at 1,750 meters elevation, offering panoramic valley views and encounters with native Andean flora and wildlife.
• Visit the Mineral Water Bottling Facility — Tour the spring-fed water processing site where Villavicencio's famous mineral water has been bottled and distributed throughout Argentina since the resort's founding.
• Photography at Sunset Viewpoint — Capture golden-hour images of the Mendoza valley and distant Aconcagua from the elevated vantage points overlooking the resort grounds.
• Picnic in Alpine Meadows — Pack provisions and settle into the high-altitude grasslands surrounding the resort, enjoying fresh mountain air and solitude among native Andean vegetation.

Food to try

• Asado with Local Mountain Lamb — Grilled lamb sourced from high-altitude Andean herds, slow-cooked over wood fires and served with chimichurri made from local herbs.
• Empanadas Mendocinas — Traditional Mendoza-style pastry pockets filled with ground meat, onions, and local spices, served warm as a mountain snack.
• Fresh Spring Water and Mineral Beverages — Experience Villavicencio's signature mineral water straight from the source, prized for its purity and mineral content throughout Argentina.
• Locro de Papa — A hearty high-altitude stew of potatoes, corn, and regional vegetables seasoned with cumin, perfect for warming up after mountain activities.
• Provoleta with Wild Mountain Herbs — Grilled provolone cheese melted and topped with foraged Andean herbs and olive oil, a simple but flavorful regional specialty.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Thermal Pools Etiquette — Locals observe quiet hours in the early morning and respect designated bathing areas; arrive early for a more peaceful experience with fewer visitors.
• High Altitude Acclimatization — At 1,750 meters, allow your body time to adjust to the elevation; drink plenty of Villavicencio's mineral water and avoid strenuous activity on your first day.
• Historical Respect at the Ruins — The abandoned hotel is a protected cultural site; stay on designated paths and refrain from removing artifacts or graffiti to preserve this piece of Argentine heritage.
• Spring Season Peak Visitation — October through November marks the busiest tourist season when Mendoza's spring weather draws crowds; visit mid-week or in shoulder seasons for a quieter experience.