Refined Chacras de Coria

Nestled in Luján de Cuyo and close to the capital of the province, Chacras de Coria is part of the must visit attractions in Mendoza. It is admired for its micro climate, the characteristics of its dwellers and for having succeeded in maintaining a quiet lifestyle and keeping contact with nature.

Wandering around its small streets lain out in a semi circle, we imagined who lived in each of the old grand houses, some of them made of adobe. Many of them have their own history because they were built by traditional families living in the city who searched for shelter in the chacras (farms) at weekends or in the summer.

Many of its streets are named after some first settlers and it was precisely the Corias one of the first families who became established in the area. Little by little, the population increased and a small civic center was formed which today comprises the square, the church and the town hall. In addition to families from Mendoza, many craftsmen known for their original designs live there and sell their products in the local stores.

One of the main features visible in the streets and in private gardens is vegetation. Huge trees with hanging branches that almost reach the pavement look like plant curtains. Many houses are barely seen behind the green walls of ivy that prevent curious eyes from looking into the yards. Almost all of them have a screened swimming-pool and galleries overlooking the gardens. Several boutique hotels are camouflaged amidst those residences and are highly appreciated by foreign tourists.

One exceptional trait in Chacras de Coria is that it has become a well-known gastronomic pole with superb proposals. Restaurants and steak houses lie on Viamonte and Mitre Streets and serve regional specialties as well as sophisticated cuisine. This is mandatory stop for a fast lunch on the Wine Road. People living in the city usually want to enjoy the top quality gastronomy boasted by this village.

We made a stop at Tea & Company, a delicious grand house with well-served tables, special tea tasting sessions, accompanied by homemade pastries and bread. Breakfast, tea, lunch and dinner are served both inside the house -decorated with coquettish armchairs and dinner sets (including Grandma’s teapot)- and at the tables set in the garden, under the parasols. Food is healthy and natural. It is located on the corner of Viamonte and Larrea Streets.

As we took Mitre Street, we came across other pubs and restaurants where we could have a drink in the company of good music and specialties. When the weather is fine, it is nice to sit at one of these outdoor tables in the shady gardens.

The proximity of the vineyards and wineries turns Chacras into a good site to rest while several venues are visited. Some of them offer different kinds of outings towards Cordón del Plata, in addition to professional tasting sessions.

We agreed to return some other time to visit those nooks we had missed and also as an excuse to enjoy some delicacy. Chacras de Coria is located on the way coming from Mendoza. It lies a few minutes away and it is totally worth a visit.