Vina Del Mar, which translates to “vineyard by the sea” in Spanish, is a charming seaside garden city in Chile, nestled in the northeast suburbs of Valparaiso, just 9 kilometers away. While it can be considered a “sister city,” its style is distinctly different. If Valparaiso is a free-spirited, wildly romantic punk youth, Vina Del Mar is a refined and pampered young lady from a wealthy family.
Our journey began with a minibus ride to the Chilean National Botanical Garden, a sprawling 400-hectare oasis that stands as the largest botanical garden in Chile. As we strolled along the winding paths, the natural fragrance of trees and flowers enveloped us, creating a serene and delightful atmosphere that was both invigorating and calming.
Continuing our adventure by bus, we arrived at the seaside, where the early summer breeze was refreshingly cool and invigorating. The white waves crashed against the rocky shoreline, sending up large splashes and creating a symphony of rising and falling sounds. Flocks of seabirds danced gracefully in the wind, while playful sea lions, no more than ten meters away, alternated between resting their heads on their paws and gazing up at the sky, and striking lazy poses.
It was truly amazing to witness how harmoniously the locals coexist with nature!
Finally, we explored this enchanting resort town on foot and stumbled upon the floral clock, one of the city’s most iconic attractions. The clock face and numbers are meticulously crafted from a vibrant array of flowers, creating a colorful and living masterpiece. It is said to be reminiscent of the famous flower clock in Geneva, Switzerland, adding a touch of international flair to this picturesque setting.
The pace of life in this small city is leisurely, and every person we encountered greeted us with bright smiles and genuine warmth, making our visit all the more memorable.
I’ve always loved how Vina del Mar balances elegance with affordability. The spring activities sound perfect for a budget-conscious traveler like me. I’d definitely check out the beaches and parks mentioned!