Lackadaisical Sunday Vina Vik

Lazy sunny Sunday afternoon reminiscing a bygone Journey. If one were fortunate to find themselves en route to the breathtaking Vina Vik property in Chile, you might be awed by these typical afternoon scenes in this gorgeous countryside.Chile Vina VikIn Argentina and Uruguay, I am always on the lookout for the iconic lone wandering Gaucho; romantic notions of these historic characters keep me alert. In Chile, these folkloric characters are known as Huaso’s and I wasn’t disappointed in my search.

Huaso herding his cows

Huaso herding his cows

The rolling landscape has many of these fine old wooden bridges leading to paths unknown.

The narrow country roads that lead to Vina Vik yielded much to enjoy. One passes roadside shrines and ancient watermills, one imagines these locals enjoy a tranquil unfettered lifestyle.

Fall is on the cusp here and I arrived a week early for grape harvest. Yellowing leaves and grape vines heavy with fruit were ready for plucking. Strong afternoon gusty winds temper the heat. Vina Vik is plopped center amid rolling hills of vines and swaying plane trees rustle in the distance, really the only sound to be heard. Vina VikA Perfect Place for a Sunday Afternoon

Vina Vik Winery Tomorrow to the Winery

Vina Vik – The Arrival

Hard to believe it was merely a week ago that I visited the art filled avant-garde VINA VIK spa retreat in Millahue, Chile. As my clients are painfully aware, I am a passionate proponent of The Arrival…we expect our guests to be greeted by management on arrival and award multiple stars for grand gestures of hospitality.Vina Vik ChileIf the hotel sends a car to the airport for my arrival, I love receiving a cool fragrant towel, chilled drinks and snacks for the drive.

Vina Vik executes the guest arrival with one of my best-loved gestures: a chilled cocktail or juice beverage reflecting the produce of the local area. The message bestowed upon a traveler – you have arrived and we welcome you to our home. Simple, yes; however, I believe it sets the stage for the guest stay…leave your cares behind, we are here to enhance your Journey.

Vina Vik ChileVina Vik Arrival…if you view the night sky from the terrace, the millions of stars in the southern sky match the Vina Vik sense of style and hospitality.

Welcome Cocktail

Vina Vik Welcome Cocktail