A family-run estancia high in the Andes of Mendoza, with 3,000 hectares of mountain country to explore.
At 2,500 metres above sea level near Tupungato, Rancho ’e Cuero encompasses river valleys, open meadows, mountain streams and rocky slopes. The land has belonged to the Palma family for more than 250 years, and owners Ricardo and Analicia now welcome guests alongside their six grown-up children.
The lodge has six rooms, furnished simply and comfortably in a traditional Argentine style. Days are spent riding, walking and fishing, with evenings spent over asados and Mendoza wine.
What we love about Rancho ‘e Cuero
- The setting at 2,500 metres in the Andes, surrounded by 3,000 hectares of valleys, streams and mountain trails.
- More than 250 years of Palma family history, with Ricardo, Analicia and their children closely involved in the estancia.
- Only six rooms, each furnished with Argentine artworks, antique furniture, local textiles and handwoven blankets.
- Their Criollo horses are sure-footed and accustomed to the mountain terrain, with horses suitable for every riding level.
- Eighteen kilometres of the Guevara stream run through the estancia, with rainbow trout and plenty of quiet spots to fish.
- All meals, wine and most activities are included; solar power supplies the lodges, while drinking water comes from a mountain stream.
Head out horseback, following old trails through the valleys into increasingly wild mountain country.
Riding is at the heart of life here, and rides can be adapted to suit everyone from complete beginners to experienced equestrians. Lunch is often set up on a remote riverbank, followed by a siesta and a dip in a natural swimming hole fed by snowmelt.
There’s also plenty to explore on foot, from a half-hour stroll to full days in the mountains; from November to February, it’s possible to tackle the Nivero del Plata route, climbing to the base of the glacier at 4,300 metres. Guanacos, red deer, foxes, hares and condors are all regularly spotted on the estancia, and the Guevara stream is home to rainbow trout. The estancia provides bait-fishing equipment and arranges the necessary permits, with private fly-fishing tuition also available.
Back at the house, evenings typically begin with a glass of wine around the fire and an Argentine asado, followed by traditional desserts – always with plenty of dulce de leche.
When to Travel
Rancho ’e Cuero is open throughout the year, although October to mid-May is the most popular period for horse riding, fishing and longer walks. At 2,500 metres, temperatures can change sharply after sunset, even during summer, so warm layers are always useful. The Nivero del Plata glacier trek operates from November to February. Winter brings colder conditions and the possibility of snow, with outdoor plans adjusted according to the weather and the condition of the mountain trails.
ENQUIRE NOWCONTACT US
Private travel to Latin America and Antarctica, designed by specialists.
Conde Nast Traveler Specialists every year since 2017
