5 Historic Rural Hotels and Estancias to Explore the Salta Valleys

Exploring the northern stretch of Argentina's iconic Route 40, where the road remains unpaved, reveals a landscape of spectacular scenery and a growing array of services. This region, particularly the Calchaquí Valleys in Salta province, is home to several historic rural hotels and estancias that have been thoughtfully adapted to welcome guests while preserving their original character.

La Paya, located 13 km from Cachi, is a family estate that opened its doors in 2000. The original stone and adobe house, dating back to 1878, features traditional cane, straw, and mud roofs. It offers seven warmly decorated rooms with a northern spirit. Guests can dine at the estate, which also boasts a recently opened tea house serving dishes made with ingredients from its own garden, alongside homemade pastries and teas. La Paya also produces a limited 2,000 bottles annually of a strong, intense local wine, aiming to revive the tradition of Salta's homemade wine.

Further along, about 7 km from Cachi, Miraluna offers ten comfortable cabins nestled among its own vineyards, a key feature of its charm. Built in 2004 using local noble materials like adobe, cane, and stone, these accommodations cater to couples and families. The cabins are equipped with kitchens and cleaning services. Guests can enjoy breakfast served in their cabins and are invited to tour the on-site winery. Walking trails and a garden for seasonal cooking are also available, with the Nevado de Cachi mountain providing a stunning backdrop.

In Payogasta, La Sala de Payogasta stands as a classic example of regional architecture, well-preserved and operating as a country hotel. Originally an estancia house, or "sala" as known in northern Argentina, it was built in the early 20th century. Now offering nine rooms and a small spa, the hotel's rooms are positioned to offer breathtaking views of the Nevado de Cachi, including its highest peak, Libertador San Martín. The property also provides vistas of the surrounding mountain range, highlighting the sacredness of the Nevado de Cachi.