The Central Valley Feature

Wine tasting: The Central Valley is the heart of Chile's wine country. Vineyards for both table and wine grapes abound and are pretty hard to miss—in fact, the Pan-American Highway runs through some of the longest continuous vineyards in the world.

Rowdy rodeos: The Central Valley is also home to the huaso, a cousin of the Argentine gaucho. Huasos, in their typical flat-topped, wide-brimmed hats, are a common sight around Rancagua, where they flock to the national Medialuna (rodeo arena) for their favorite sport.

Scenic train rides: Chile's train service has dwindled over the years—like everywhere else, it seems—but a special treat for train lovers remains in the Central Valley. The Wine Train is a restored steam engine that dates to 1907 accompanied by wood-paneled passenger cars from the 1920s. It runs between San Fernando and Santa Cruz.