Casablanca Valley, Casablanca is nowadays considered one of the Premium cold climate valleys producing excellent white and red wines and a range of other quality varieties that have earned great international prestige. Casablanca is the birthplace of the best Sauvignon Blanc in Chile, followed closely by excellent Chardonnay and other white varieties such as Late Harvest. Among the red varieties, the most characteristic are the excellent cold-climate Pinot Noir and Syrah that have been the most recent success stories in Chile. However, Casablanca offers a large diversity of soils and some vineyards have started to grow Cabernet Franc and Malbec.
Valparaiso World Heritage City, once the most important port in all of South America—full of globe-trotting European residents and their riches—this city long served as the Continent’s glamorous link to the rest of the world. When the Panama Canal opened in 1914, Valparaíso lost its status as an international power but retained the air of its regal past. Locals (known as porteños) — an incongruous mix of artists, sailors, and students—still gather at the same century-old bars, and Edwardian villas and Art Nouveau palaces balance on hilltops. Citywide restoration efforts are now rescuing crumbling landmarks; historic houses are being transformed into sophisticated restaurants; and notable galleries are heralding the work of native talent. Bohemian and colorful, Valparaiso’s maze of hills has long inspired poets and writers. You’ll discover something new at every turn: a gem of a building, a remarkable art gallery or some little gastronomic ‘find’. Stroll along its narrow streets, climb its endless staircases, ride its historic funicular elevators and enjoy panoramic views from its many lofty lookout points.
Viña del Mar - is a sharp contrast to the charming jumble of neighboring Valparaíso. Manicured boulevards lined with palm trees, stately palaces, a sprawling public beach and beautiful expansive parks have earned it the nickname of Ciudad Jardín (Garden City). Its official name, which means 'Vineyard by the Sea,' stems from the area's colonial origins as the hacienda of the Carrera family. Not many foreign travelers stay here, opting instead for a day trip from Valparaíso. Nevertheless, Viña remains a popular weekend and summer destination.