Luxury Colome wine tour

Discovering the Highest Vineyard in the World: A Luxury Salta Experience

Imagine winding through towering mountain passes, where the air grows thinner and the scenery more dramatic, until you arrive at Estancia Colome, the world’s highest vineyard at nearly 3,500 meters altitude. This two-day luxury tour offers more than just wine tasting; it’s an immersive journey through Argentina’s breathtaking Valles Calchaquies, with stops at stunning national parks, colorful red rock formations, and charming mountain towns like Molinos and Cachi. For about $1,035 per person, you’ll enjoy private transport, guided excursions, exquisite wines, and a night in a plush hotel — a package that balances comfort with adventure.

What we particularly loved about this experience is how it combines spectacular scenery with world-class wines. The drive itself is an adventure—ascending the Cuesta del Obispo with panoramic views, then descending through landscapes dotted with candelabra cacti in Parque Nacional Los Cardones. The second highlight is visiting Estancia Colome, where you can sample rare varietals like Torrontés and Tannat, while soaking in the stunning mountain backdrop. The opportunity to visit the James Turrell museum adds an unexpected touch of art and light to the trip.

A couple of considerations: the tour involves some moderate physical activity with uneven mountain roads, and the price point makes it a more premium experience. But for travelers who value authentic wine experiences, spectacular landscapes, and comfortable accommodations, this tour hits many marks. It’s especially perfect for those who enjoy luxury travel combined with cultural exploration in a remote, visually stunning setting.

If you’re after a unique, high-altitude wine adventure that includes sightseeing in picturesque mountain towns, this tour is right up your alley. It’s ideal for curious wine lovers, scenery seekers, and those wanting a taste of Argentina’s less-traveled highlands.

Key Points

• Highest vineyard in the world: Reaching nearly 3,500 meters, it offers a unique altitude experience.
• Comprehensive itinerary: From mountain passes to desert landscapes, followed by wine tasting and cultural visits.
• Luxury overnight stay: At Estancia Colome, combining comfort with local charm.
• Stunning landscapes: The drive showcases changing scenery, from lush valleys to striking red rock formations.
• Wine focus: Sampling a diverse array of white and red wines, including Torrontés and Tannat.
• Art and culture: Visit to the James Turrell museum adds an intriguing artistic dimension.

In-Depth Look at the Luxury Colome Wine Tour

The Journey Begins: From Salta to the Valles Calchaquies

Your adventure starts early, with a hotel pickup around 9:00 am, giving you time to settle in and prepare for the day ahead. The first leg of the trip takes you through the Valle de Lerma, a lush valley that’s a stark contrast to what’s to come. As you ascend the Cuesta del Obispo, the scenery transforms dramatically. We loved how the winding mountain road offers ever-changing views—mountain peaks, deep valleys, and the distant outline of the Andes.

Reaching nearly 3,500 meters, the high point at Piedra del Molino provides a perfect photo opportunity. This is where you truly feel the altitude, and the sheer scale of these mountains becomes apparent. It’s a reminder of why this is the world’s highest vineyard—the thin, crisp air actually influences the wine’s character.

National Park Los Cardones: A Desert of Candelabra Cacti

Next, your route takes you through the Parque Nacional Los Cardones, a vast desert plain punctuated by tall, ancient cacti resembling candlesticks. The landscape here is stark and otherworldly. We appreciated how the guide explained the ecological and cultural significance of these plants, which have thrived in this arid environment. It’s a quick stop—about an hour—but it’s ideal for stretching your legs and snapping some memorable photos of the wide-open spaces.

The Red Rock Marvel of Los Colorados

The scenery shifts again as you descend into Los Colorados, with its deep red rock formations and rugged cliffs. This part of the tour is especially striking; the colors are vibrant and constantly changing with the light. From the town of Molinos, you’ll follow a rough mountain road to reach the vineyard. The journey itself is part of the experience—expect some bumpy patches but plenty of breathtaking vistas at each turn.

Estancia Colome and the Art of Wine

Arriving at Colome, you’re greeted by a vineyard set against the hills of the Valles Calchaquies. This is where the tour gets to the heart of Argentine wine. Estancia Colome is renowned for its white Torrontés and reds like Malbec and Tannat—varieties that thrive at high altitude, developing unique flavors. We loved the detailed explanations about how these wines are made, especially noting the development of Sauvignon Blanc, Bonarda, and Pinot Noir.

After sampling several wines, you’ll visit the James Turrell museum. This space is dedicated to light art, and it’s a fascinating juxtaposition of nature, science, and art—an unexpected highlight that adds a layer of cultural richness.

The Charm of Molinos and Cachi

Day two begins with a visit to the 17th-century Iglesia San Pedro Nolasco de los Molinos and the old hacienda—remnants of a colonial era, providing a glimpse into the region’s past. Then, you’ll head to Cachi, a mountain town with a cactus-roofed church and plenty of boutique wineries. Here, you’ll have time for a relaxed lunch and some exploration before heading back to Salta.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers transportation, all transfers, guide services, some meals, snacks, bottled water, and tasting fees. The overnight stay at the hotel is part of the package, making this a truly luxury experience. Note that wine with dinner isn’t included, giving you the chance to browse local options at your hotel or nearby wineries.

The Experience in Context: Is It Worth It?

Given the price, this tour offers a premium experience, but the value is clear for those who appreciate luxury, scenic beauty, and quality wines. The private group setting ensures a personalized experience, and the guidance from knowledgeable local experts adds depth to every stop.

The driving, while scenic, can be bumpy in certain areas, so travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level and be comfortable with uneven roads. For those who love visual grandeur mixed with cultural discovery, it’s a perfect match.

Authenticity and Unique Southern Argentina

What sets this tour apart is the chance to visit Argentina’s highest vineyard, experience mountain town charm, and enjoy wines made in one of the most unique high-altitude environments. The combination of spectacular landscapes, excellent wine tasting, and artful cultural stops offers a well-rounded, memorable journey.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and anyone craving a luxurious escape into Argentina’s highlands. While it’s a bit pricier, the quality of the scenery, wines, and accommodations justifies the investment. If you’re looking for a small-group experience with tailored guidance and an emphasis on authentic local culture, this tour fits the bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 days, starting with a 9:00 am pickup and ending after the return to Salta.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers all transfers, professional guide, accommodation, dinner, snacks, bottled water, and some meals with tasting fees.

Are meals with wine included?
No, wine with dinner isn’t included, but you’ll have the chance to purchase or enjoy local options separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 18 due to alcohol tasting and the physical nature of some stops.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is best, as temperatures can vary from mountain to desert environments. Comfortable shoes are recommended for uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 6 days in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable.

Is the tour private or group?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

What about the James Turrell museum?
It’s included in the tour, but note it’s closed on Mondays.

How strenuous is the physical activity?
Moderate—the tour involves some walking on uneven terrain and mountain roads.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at your hotel in Salta, with pickup available.

Final Thoughts

This Luxury Colome wine tour offers a compelling mix of stunning landscapes, high-altitude wines, and cultural highlights in Argentina’s northwest. It’s perfect for travelers craving a comfortable yet adventurous experience, with the added allure of visiting the world’s highest vineyard. The combination of scenic drives, boutique wine tasting, and charming mountain towns creates a memorable journey that justifies the price for those seeking a premium, authentic experience.

While it’s not suited for budget travelers or those with mobility issues, it’s an excellent choice for those who value quality, scenery, and cultural depth. Expect to return with great memories, beautiful photos, and perhaps a new appreciation for Argentina’s diverse terroirs.

Embark on this journey if you’re eager to explore one of the world’s most unique wine regions, enjoy breathtaking vistas, and relax in comfort—all in one carefully curated package.