Explore the attractions of Maipú, an agricultural city of fine tastes. Fed by the Mendoza River, this heavily cultivated area is famous for producing some of the country’s best wines, grapes and olives. Take a trip from Mendoza to see its manicured parks and ancient churches or stay a while and savour the fruits of the landscape.
With a population approaching 100,000, Maipu may seem big, but it has preserved the churches and monuments of its small-town past. Pay a visit to Our Lady of the Rosary Chapel and see the sacristy, which has been declared a national landmark. Walk through Principal Square and see the city’s flower clock, which has a face made of seasonal flower displays.
Discover the famous vineyards surrounding Maipú that have thrived for generations. Malbec vines were planted by European settlers, who accurately predicted the grape would flourish near the Andes Mountains. Take a wine tasting tour and savour the complex flavours of local vintages. Learn about Maipú’s wine-loving past at the Bodega La Rural. This wine museum is home to tools, drawings and ceramics used in the production of wine during the 19th century.
Tour Maipú’s olive orchards to see how oils and pastes are produced from Argentina’s oldest olive trees. Maipú’s fertile soil also produces creosote bush and sweet carob, which can be sampled and bought. The city is famous for its agritourism. Tour a local thoroughbred stable or buy fresh honeycomb direct from an apiary. Maipú is also known for its excellent food. In the evenings, pick from a number of restaurants providing meals made with fresh local produce.
Maipú is a 30-minute drive southwest of central Mendoza. Get there cheaply on the city bus. Book agritours through local agents. For a pleasant sunset stroll, head to Metropolitan Park, west of Maipú. This large park provides barbeques, playgrounds and large meadows where kids can run free.
