The Maipu Wine Route by bicycle is Mendoza's most popular and accessible excursion: a 15 km circuit through rural roads among vineyards, wineries and olive farms in Maipu, just 15 km from Mendoza center (lat -32.9667, lng -68.5333). The circuit takes a half day (4-6 hours) renting bikes from Mr Hugo or Bikes & Wines, who provide maps with wineries and farms. Top wineries: Bodega Lopez (founded 1898, impressive underground cellars), Trapiche (one of Argentina's largest), Familia Di Tommaso (artisan boutique winery) and olive oil farms with tastings. Flat and easy, suitable for all cycling levels. The most authentic and fun way to explore Mendoza's wine world without spending much.
Getting there — distances & times
| From | Distance | Flight | Bus | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York (JFK) | 8300 km | 11 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Madrid (MAD) | 10200 km | 13 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Buenos Aires (EZE) | 1050 km | 1 h 45 | 14 h | 11 h |
| Santiago (SCL) | 370 km | 55 min | 6–8 h | 5 h |
| Córdoba | 670 km | 1 h 10 | 9 h | 7 h |
| San Juan | 170 km | — | 2 h 30 | 2 h |
| Bariloche (BRC) | 1140 km | 1 h 50 | 18 h | 14 h |
Month-by-month climate
| Month | Temp. | Rain | Crowds | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 18° / 33°C | 25 mm | Hot & dry summer | |
| Feb | 17° / 31°C | 30 mm | ||
| Mar | 14° / 28°C | 20 mm | Harvest season | |
| Apr | 10° / 23°C | 15 mm | ||
| May | 5° / 18°C | 8 mm | ||
| Jun | 2° / 14°C | 5 mm | ||
| Jul | 2° / 14°C | 8 mm | Ski Las Leñas | |
| Aug | 4° / 17°C | 8 mm | ||
| Sep | 7° / 21°C | 12 mm | Vineyard bloom | |
| Oct | 11° / 25°C | 15 mm | ||
| Nov | 14° / 28°C | 20 mm | ||
| Dec | 17° / 31°C | 25 mm |
How to Get There
Maipu is 15 km from downtown Mendoza. Remis/taxi: 20-25 min, USD 5-8. Bike rental companies sometimes offer free transfer from Mendoza.
What to See and Do
Bodega Lopez
Founded 1898, one of Argentina's oldest. Impressive underground cellars with century-old barrels. Free guided tour (45 min) with full-line tasting. The must-visit winery on the circuit.
Bodega Trapiche
Historic winery (1883) offering tours with tastings and a shop at winery prices. USD 5-15 depending on tasting level. Reserve in advance.
Familia Di Tommaso
Family artisan winery with limited production. The owner welcomes you personally. An authentic, intimate experience. Tasting: USD 5-10.
Olive Oil Farms
Farms like Olivicola Pasrai and Laur offer tastings of extra virgin olive oils (arauco, frantoio, arbequina varieties), olives and pastes. Mendoza olive oil is award-winning. Tasting free or USD 3-5.
The Bike Ride
Flat terrain, paved and gravel rural roads among vineyards. Relaxed pace: pedal 15-20 min between each winery, stop, taste, continue. Bikes have baskets for buying bottles. Visit 3-5 wineries/farms in half a day.
Practical Information
Bike Rental
Mr Hugo and Bikes & Wines: USD 10-15 half day, USD 15-20 full day. Includes bike, helmet, lock, winery map and basket.
Total Budget
Bike: USD 10-15. Transfer: USD 10-15 (or free if included). Tastings: USD 0-15 (several are free). Lunch: USD 8-15. Wine bottles to take: USD 3-10 each. Total half day: USD 25-50 per person. Mendoza's most affordable excursion.
Tips
Do not go on an empty stomach. Bring water, sunscreen and a hat. Start early (10:00). Choose 3-4 wineries and enjoy rather than rushing. Buy wine at winery prices (much cheaper). If you overindulge, take a remis back.
