Journey with us to the northern frontier of Chile’s winemaking tradition — a land shaped by dramatic landscapes, centuries of viticultural history, and the vibrant pulse of nature.

Just five hours north of Santiago along the Pacific Highway, this region is a dream for open-air adventurers and wine lovers alike. Fueled by the lively streams of the Limarí and Elqui Rivers, this breathtaking area transitions from the coastal city of La Serena, eastward through Limarí, Vicuña, and into the mystical valley of Pisco Elqui — where nature, wine, and history converge.

What to Explore: A Taste of Northern Chile

Fonda Toscana – Ovalle

A culinary gem showcasing the region’s rich ingredients with refined Italian-inspired technique. Come for the food, stay for the world-class wine and Pisco program. This is the perfect spot to spend an unhurried afternoon lunch.

Town of Vicuña

The birthplace of Gabriela Mistral, Chile’s Nobel Prize-winning poet. A cultural haven filled with history, museums, and traditional Chilean cuisine.

Don’t miss:

Guayacán Brewery (just west of town) – a must for craft beer fans.

Tabalí Winery – Limarí Valley

Set along the Limarí River where ocean breezes meet vine rows rooted in rich calcareous "veta blanca" soils. A standout destination for wine aficionados.
Must-try:

Talinay site wines
Bold reds sourced from Maipo Valley

Town of Pisco Elqui

A charming town perfect for a slow morning: enjoy a local breakfast, explore regional arts and crafts, and visit the historic Pisquera Fundo Los Nichos, one of Chile’s oldest Pisco producers.

Viñedos de Alcohuaz

Chile’s highest elevation vineyard (avg. 7,000 ft above sea level), located on steep, rugged hillsides. A pilgrimage site for serious wine lovers.
Recommended:

Field blends of Syrah, Garnacha, Carignan, Malbec
Single-vineyard wines – truly unique expressions of altitude and terroir

Nature & Activities

Beach town of La Serena – ideal for unwinding by the Pacific.
Stargazing – some of the clearest night skies in the world.
Kite & windsurfing – at La Paloma Lake.
Hiking, camping, and cultural visits – explore areas rich with Diaguita pre-Colombian heritage.

What to Eat

Fried empanadas (seafood & cheese)
Fresh ceviche
Goat cheese from local farms
Charki (dried meat)
Freshwater prawns (in season)
Pastel de choclo, humitas, and sopaipillas topped with meats or veggies

Where to Stay

CasaMolle – Pisco Elqui
Solar Mariagada Hotel – Vicuña
Hotel y Cabañas Campanario – La Serena

Whether you’re chasing wines, stars, surf, or serenity — Northern Chile offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking connection with land, flavor, and culture.

Exploring Northern Chile’s Wine & Nature Paradise