Classic cars in Mendoza, Argentina
Juan leans back comfortably in his cosy armchair, whilst the fire in the brazier crackles gently. Juan Tonconogy is the owner of Casa de Uco, a stunning luxury design hotel nestled amongst the vineyards of the Uco Valley, one of Argentina’s most important wine regions in the province of Mendoza. As well as his wine hotel, Juan has another great passion: classic cars.
A successful family venture in the Uco Valley
Juan Tonconogy is the 37-year-old owner of Casa de Uco, a stunning luxury design hotel nestled amongst the vineyards of the Uco Valley, one of Argentina’s most important wine regions in the province of Mendoza. He grew up in the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires, and used to go on annual holidays with his family to the wine region, where they would spend time with a family of friends. As he grew older, he became increasingly interested in wine and its production. Not long after, he moved to Mendoza and bought his first winery there. A few years later, he and the rest of his family took on a new challenge when they decided to establish Casa de Uco.
A passion for classic car rallies
A passion that Juan has had since childhood is his love of classic cars. At least three times a year, he takes part in classic car rallies himself, and with considerable success. For example, Juan has already won the Mille Miglia in Italy three times, which is regarded as the most important and prestigious classic car rally in the world.
Winner of the Mille Miglia in Italy
“The victories in this rally are definitely among the most wonderful experiences of my life. Italians are true experts when it comes to rally driving, and standing out in such a strong field of ultimate car enthusiasts is something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. In particular, the victory I achieved this year, together with my wife, is an unforgettable moment for me. In Argentina, I actually always take part in the Mil Millas, a rally in the Merendistrict of Argentina, inspired by the Mille Miglia in Italy, and of course the Rally de las Bodegas here in Mendoza. The Rally de las Bodegas, in particular, is a must for me every year, as it allows me to combine my two passions: wine and classic cars.”
Rally de las Bodegas
The Rally de las Bodegas is held every year to celebrate the ‘Vendimia’, the grape harvest. It is a unique opportunity for classic car enthusiasts to explore the beautiful province of Mendoza during the harvest season, when the weather is lovely and the countryside is green, and to discover the finest wineries. The rally lasts two days and runs from the city of Mendoza to the Uco Valley and the Andes Mountains. Around 60 cars take part in the rally each year.
The Rally de las Bodegas is one of Argentina’s most popular car races. Spend a few days on the road in a classic car, enjoying the famous wineries and the impressive landscapes. In partnership with Casa de Uco, Sapa Pana Travel is organising a unique trip to Mendoza at the start of the harvest season, during which you’ll take part in the Rally de las Bodegas yourself in a classic car. Depending on availability, this could include an MGB 65 or 80, a Fiat Osca Spider 69 or a Triumph TR3.
Drive the Rally de las Bodegas yourself
The trip begins in Amsterdam, from where you’ll take a direct flight to Buenos Aires. The following morning, you’ll land at Buenos Aires Airport and be taken to the Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt in Buenos Aires, where you’ll spend the night. An ‘early check-in’ has been arranged, so you can go straight to your hotel room. Buenos Aires has plenty to offer and is a lovely start to your trip. Today, you’ll explore the city’s colourful neighbourhoods and experience the unique blend of cultures that have established themselves here over the years.
You’ll fly from Buenos Aires to Mendoza, where your adventure begins. Your classic car will be waiting for you, and a festive opening ceremony is planned for the evening. The next two days are dedicated to the Rally de las Bodegas. As you drive your classic car, you’ll travel through the countryside of Mendoza province. You’ll pass vineyards and wineries belonging to some of the world’s finest wine producers, with the peaks of the Andes in the background. The atmosphere is relaxed, but don’t lose sight of the competitive element. During these days, you’ll be staying at the Park Hyatt Mendoza. After this impressive and demanding rally, you’ll be taken to the Uco Valley, where you’ll stay for four nights at Casa de Uco. Over the next few days, enjoy the hospitality of your accommodation. Let the staff advise you on the activities you can take part in and enjoy an excellent dinner in the evening. You’ll fly back to Buenos Aires, where you’ll round off this unique experience with a visit to one of the best tango shows in the Argentine capital. Whilst enjoying a delicious dinner from a VIP seat, you’ll be treated to performances by the finest tango dancers at the Esquina Carlos Gardel show. The following day, you’ll fly back to Amsterdam.
LatinAmeriCar – Exclusive road trips
Drawing on my own experiences, we have created a unique series of road trips with Sapa Pana Travel, called LatinAmeriCar. During our exclusive road trips, you’ll drive your own car or a rental car, with the assistance of our experienced Dutch, German, English and Spanish-speaking guides and an expert technical team. You’ll travel through the most beautiful continent in the world with everything taken care of. Adventures you’ll cherish for the rest of your life!
More about LatinAmeriCar
Would you like to join one of these exclusive road trips yourself? Then take a look at our LatinAmeriCar page. Do you have any questions about a unique trip of Latin America, would you like a bespoke travel proposal, or would you like to arrange an appointment at our office? Please feel free to get in touch with us. Send an email to info@sapapanatravel.nl or call +31 73 610 62 04. We’d be happy to help.