Vina Del Mar

Introduction

Viña del Mar (which means vineyard of the sea) is 126km north-west from Santiago. To get here you drive the Rut 68 west from Santiago. Towards the end of the Rut 68 there will be a sign directing you to the right that will lead you into Viña, but alternatively you can carry on down the steep hill into Valparaiso and then take the coastal road to the right that will lead into Viña too. Viña is 8km north of Valparaiso, but in reality, it feels like the two cities are joined together.
The city was founded in 1874 as the main coastal retreat for the social elite living in Santiago as well as those who decided to stay here, by the sea. And, at this time it was a rather exclusive place. Judging by the older houses and few “castle-like” buildings one can imagine that yes, it must have been a special place in those early days. Long, golden-sand beaches and few people as well.

However, in its second heyday, back in the 60’s, Viña was still considered to be an “up-market” coastal destination, with, at the time, modern apartments, nice gardens and the presidential summer palace attracting the president of the day to vacation here.

However, as with a lot of nice places, over time the visiting population, as well as the residential population has increased which, in turn, has put pressure on infrastructure, beaches and services. Today the local population is around 1m people. Houses and new apartment blocks have sprung up in the immediate hills behind the city as well as newer, taller apartment buildings having gone up beside the beach area. What this means is that in the summer months it becomes very busy.

Why Come to Viña?

Its “specialities” include the garden clock, which is a large flower bed, within which are two big clock hands; the Quinta Vergara Park, where there is greenery and a theatrical stage where concerts are held, particularly the “Viña Music Festival”, hosted in February each year. This used to be a major South American music show beamed live on T.V throughout the region as well as to other countries. Major known artists have played at this festival including Elton John, The Police, Tom Jones, Rod Stewart, Ricky Martin, Julio Iglesias to name but a few, along with famous Chilean artists. However, in recent years it has lost a lot of its allure.

There is a gambling casino that tries to emulate its cousin in Montecarlo and is quite good if you like gambling. There are lots of slot machines, roulette tables, blackjack and so on with drinks being served whilst you play. Within the historic building is a restaurant too and adjacent is a hotel.

Around the plaza of Viña and along the promenade you will see horses pulling single carriages for those looking for some nostalgia and on certain days the local racecourse offers a day at the races.

Viña is a major base for the Chilean Navy too, with a large navy staff stationed here.

ExperienceChile.Org works with one particular partner hotel, the Sheraton Miramar, which is located right on the waters edge, on the rocks, beside the road leading towards Valparaiso. It is a good hotel and a place to stay if you wish to see Viña del Mar and, or Valparaiso.