The Vines Resort & Spa

The Vines Resort & Spa, Tunuyan, Argentina: A Comprehensive Review (Michelin Key One-Key Property)

The Vines Resort & Spa in Tunuyan, Argentina, stands as a distinguished luxury retreat, highly lauded for its immersive wine country experience, breathtaking Andean backdrop, and exceptional service. Recognized with a prestigious One Michelin Key, signifying "a very special stay," the resort consistently earns high praise for its unique blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The overall sentiment for The Vines Resort & Spa is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as an "outstanding" and "unforgettable" experience. It holds an impressive overall rating, often scoring above 9 out of 10 on various platforms. Guests are captivated by the serene and luxurious atmosphere, making it a prime destination for relaxation and indulgence.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently highlight several aspects that make their stay exceptional:

• Spectacular Location & Views: The resort's setting amidst 1,500 acres of private vineyards, with sweeping, 180-degree views of the majestic Andes Mountains, is a major draw. The tranquility and natural beauty are frequently praised.
• Immersive Wine Experience: Rooted in the joy of winemaking, the resort offers unique opportunities, including private vineyard ownership, custom winemaking, blending sessions, and wine tastings at "Vines to Go."
• Exceptional Dining at Siete Fuegos: The on-site restaurant, Siete Fuegos by internationally acclaimed chef Francis Mallmann, is a significant highlight, renowned for its open-flame cooking techniques and delicious Argentine cuisine, especially the beef.
• Personalized Service ("Gauchos"): The resort's "Gauchos" act as personal concierges and tour guides, curating tailored guest experiences and providing warmhearted hospitality.
• Luxurious Villas & Amenities: The private villas, with their spacious layouts, well-appointed interiors, and private outdoor spaces, are consistently praised. The infinity pool, spa, and various outdoor activities also contribute to the luxurious experience.

3. Room Quality

The Vines Resort & Spa features 21 or 22 private villas, ranging from one to two bedrooms, offering spacious and luxurious accommodations. These modernist villas are designed with rustic elegance and contemporary style, taking inspiration from the Uco Valley's natural palette.

Key features include:

• Spacious Indoor/Outdoor Living: Villas boast ample indoor and outdoor living spaces, including private decks with lounge seating, and often outdoor showers, soaking tubs, or plunge pools.
• Breathtaking Views: Many villas offer spectacular views of the vineyards and Andes Mountains, though some villas in a second row may have more limited views. Deluxe villas may feature rooftop terraces for enhanced panoramic views.
• Comfort & Design: Rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities, full or mini-kitchenettes, comfortable beds with premium bedding, and spa-inspired bathrooms lined with natural stone, often stocked with custom amenities. Fireplaces and outdoor fire pits add to the ambiance.

4. Dining Experience

The resort's signature restaurant, Siete Fuegos by Francis Mallmann, is a cornerstone of the dining experience. It offers:

• Open-Flame Cuisine: Mallmann's renowned "seven fires" cooking techniques are showcased, featuring delicious Argentine beef and inspired regional dishes.
• Varied Menu: The menu is varied, with options for lunch, dinner, and even vegetarians. Guests can enjoy dining at the outdoor kitchen for a special experience.
• Breakfast: A complimentary daily breakfast buffet is provided, including fruits, juices, breads, pastries, and cooked-to-order options like omelets and avocado toast. Room service from Siete Fuegos is also available.
• Wine & Bar: The resort also features an indoor bar and Cava (wine cellar) with an extensive selection of wines, cocktails, and craft beers.

5. Service & Staff

The service at The Vines Resort & Spa is consistently described as "excellent," "attentive," and "friendly."

• "Gaucho" Concierge Service: A unique highlight is the personalized service provided by the "Gauchos," who act as personal concierges and tour guides, curating customized itineraries and embodying warm Argentine hospitality.
• Efficiency & Professionalism: Staff are generally efficient, friendly, and capable, assisting with everything from making fires in villas to scheduling wine country events.
• Minor Feedback: While generally excellent, one review noted that breakfast service was friendly but "maybe not the most attentive," with items not always cleared away promptly.

6. Location & Accessibility

The Vines Resort & Spa is situated in Los Chacayes, Tunuyán, in the heart of the Uco Valley, Argentina's premier wine-growing region.

• Remote but Accessible: While blissfully remote and surrounded by vast vineyards, the resort is considered easily accessible. It is approximately 62 miles (100 km) or a 1.5-hour drive south of Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (Mendoza International Airport).
• Exploring the Region: The resort can arrange transfers, or guests can hire a car. Once at the resort, many guests find little desire to leave due to the array of on-site activities. For those who wish to explore, nearby attractions include cycling routes, other unique wineries, and the scenic Uco Valley itself.
• On-site Activities: The property offers horseback riding, biking, trekking, 4x4 excursions, cooking classes, and wine tasting, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural environment and wine culture.

7. Value & Pricing

The Vines Resort & Spa is positioned as a luxury property, and its pricing reflects this.

• Typical Price Range: Room rates can range from approximately $696 to $2273 per night, with an average room rate often cited around $990. This is significantly higher than the average hotel room price in Tunuyan, indicating its premium status.
• Resort Fee: A daily resort fee of USD 45 per accommodation (taxes included) applies, covering services like a daily in-villa personal bar (non-alcoholic), Nespresso coffee, welcome snacks, seasonal fresh fruits, complimentary bicycles, and transfers to Winemakers Village wineries.
• VAT Exemption: Foreign travelers paying with a non-Argentine credit card, debit card, or bank transfer are exempt from Argentina's 21% Value-Added Tax (VAT) on accommodation and breakfast, upon presenting a foreign passport or ID.
• Perceived Value: Despite the high price point, many guests find the experience to be "outstanding" and worth the cost, particularly for the unique experiences, service, and luxurious setting. However, some reviews suggest that the high price sets very high expectations, and any shortcomings can lead to disappointment.

8. Common Complaints

While generally highly praised, some recurring issues or criticisms mentioned by guests include:

• Limited Views from Certain Villas: Some guests noted that villas in the second row (villas 14 through 30) have more limited views of the Andes compared to the front-row villas (1 through 11). Guests planning a stay might want to be specific about requesting a villa with an unobstructed view.
• Breakfast Service Attentiveness: One review mentioned that while friendly, the breakfast service could be less attentive, with dishes not always cleared promptly.
• Pricing and Payment Practices: One guest expressed disappointment with the "extremely high price point" and mentioned issues with being charged in USD converted at the official rate, without the benefit of the exchange rate, and a less favorable unofficial rate if converting to pesos.
• Distance to Amenities: Some older reviews indicated that there could be a considerable distance between the main house and some villas, as well as standalone buildings for the gym and spa, requiring a few minutes' walk.
• Age Restriction: The resort can only accommodate guests over the age of 12.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. hotels.com
3. agoda.com
4. expedia.com
5. momondo.com
6. afar.com
7. theprivatetraveller.com
8. travelocity.com
9. luxurylatinamerica.com