The Elqui River runs some 140 km to the beaches of La Serena, passing through hills laden with vineyards and towns that have made blending agriculture and tourism a local tradition. This is Valle del Elqui (Elqui Valley), one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations and the perfect destination for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy a different kind of vacation experience.
Take a paved road east from La Serena (62 km) to the tranquil city of Vicuña, which is best known as the birthplace of Nobel Prize-winning poet Gabriela Mistral. From here, you can venture further into the valley and visit Monte Grande, the town where Mistral spent her childhood. It is still home to her school, her home and her gravesite.
There are many ways to experience this destination, and a visit to the pisco plants is a good place to start. Tours offer a great opportunity to learn about the production process, taste this grape distillate and shop.
Towns like Algarobillo, El Tambo, Peralillo, El Molle and San Isidro offer a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of vineyards and orchards, adobe architecture and beautiful churches.If you’re a fan of adventure sports, try the local trekking routes, horseback riding excursions and paths for bike and Jeep tours.
Vicuña and Pisco Elqui are surrounded by vineyards and have excellent restaurants and “picadas” (small local restuarants) which serve everything from roasted goat to organic cuisine. Ask the locals for recommendations, especially when it comes to marmalades, empanadas, pan amasado (kneaded bread) and manjar.
Valle del Elqui has attracted a number of people who are looking to live far from the hectic pace of city life. Given that this place is a source of healing energies, it’s easy to find accommodations that offer alternative therapies, including reiki, meditation and massages. The beautiful landscapes of the nearby Cochiguaz Valley are home to a center that focuses on mysticism and alternative therapies.
To complete this journey of the senses, visit the Mamalluca Astronomy Center. The pure Valle del Elqui air allows for some spectacular stargazing opportunities.
Elqui Valley Famous for its futuristic observatories, seekers of cosmic energies, frequent UFO sightings, poet Gabriela Mistral and quaint villages, this is a truly enchanting and enchanted area, and one of the must-visit places in Norte Chico.
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