Vina-del-Mar Travel Guide
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120km (74 miles) NW of Santiago; 8km (5 miles) N of Valparaíso
Viña del Mar is one of Chile's most fashionable beach resorts. The town was founded in 1874 as a weekend retreat and garden residence for the wealthy elite from Valparaíso and Santiago, and it has remained a top beach destination for Santiaguinos ever since. Most simply call the city "Viña" -- you'll call it chaos if you come any time between December and late February, when thousands of vacationers descend.
The sight of Viña's attractive homes, manicured lawns, and golden beaches dotted with colorful surfboards is something of a contrast to the ramshackle streets of Valparaíso. There are plenty of fine beaches here, but the Humboldt Current that runs the length of Chile to Antofagasta makes for cold swimming conditions. Whether or not you swim, Viña is a wonderfully relaxing place to spend 1 or 2 days.
The city is divided into two sectors: the downtown and the beachfront. Several downtown locations are desirable for their proximity to the lush Quinta Vergara Park and shops, but it's about a 15-minute walk to the beach from here. The beach is better suited for tourists, with plenty of hotels and restaurants.
