3 Best Sights in San Fernando, The Central Valley

The Silva family is a true wine dynasty of Chile, and the family vineyard, just five minutes off the Pan-American Highway, is one of the most convenient in the area to visit. The atmospheric wine cellar is one of the oldest in Colchagua, and the colonial architecture has been tastefully refurbished throughout the winery and production rooms, where a tour shows you the main facilities as well as the family's collection of classic cars. Finish up with a tasting in the modern wine shop, or cycle, drive, or walk through the vineyards to the excellent restaurant overlooking the polo fields.

On a clear night, the Colchagua Valley can be excellent for stargazing. Eccentric expat Ian Hutcheon runs an observatory just outside of Tagua Tagua, where events begin with a welcome glass of wine (made with meteorites in the barrel), after which there is entertaining discussion, presentation, and observation through advanced telescopes. During the day, Hutcheon leads nature hikes in the area with a buried treasure surprise.

Jaw-dropping architecture and stunning views over the valley make this one of Chile's most extravagant wineries. Nestled in a private 11,000-acre estate, the VIK winery is pure luxury, and the Norwegian-American couple who owns it don't do anything by half measures. A visit includes a barrel tasting of the individual components before a taste of the final blend. Make a day of it with horseback riding in the stunning estate and lunch in the hotel restaurant, one of Chile's best.