Things to do in Santa Cruz
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Museo de Colchagua
Along with dealing arms, Carlos Cardoen has made a name for himself as a hard-core collector. The fruit of his passion is the incredible Museo de Colchagua, the largest private museum in Chile. The collection includes pre-Columbian anthropomorphic ceramics from all over Latin America; weapons, religious artifacts and Mapuche silver; and a whole room of huasos cowboy gear. Steam-driven machinery, winemaking equipment and a re-creation of Colchagua’s original train station fill the huge courtyard, and adjoining display rooms showcase old carriages and vintage cars.
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Tren del Vino
The most novel way to try the local wine is aboard the Tren del Vino, a steam-train tour that leaves every Saturday from San Fernando station. You start the wine tasting on board, visit a vineyard and have lunch there, then wind up at the Colchagua museum before returning to Santiago by bus.
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La Casita de Barreales
Local foodies are unanimous: the subtle Peruvian ceviches and chaufas (a Peruvian take on Chinese-style fried rice) here are the most exciting thing to arrive on Santa Cruz’s tables in years. The secret is definitely out – the warmly lit adobe house fills up quickly on weekends so try to book.
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La Cava de Don Miguel
A century-old family recipe book inspired the menu at this hushed, candlelit restaurant in the old estancia house at Viu Manent winery. Outside, a sizzling grill provides the hunks of barbecued beef and chicken served at tables on the shaded terrace.
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Alma Campesina
A classy take on country is the idea at this cavernous restaurant, where simple steaks, ribs and grilled fish are served at rustic wooden tables. It’s above a shop of the same name – the stairs are round the side of the building.
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Sushi Restaurant
With its pale, stripped-wood bar and stools, this tiny Japanese restaurant on the corner of the Plaza de Armas looks surprisingly authentic. The sushi, though nothing special, is fresh and well made.
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Café Domo
Whether you’re getting over the wine tastings of the day before or caffeining yourself up for the ones ahead, the huge flavored coffees here are sure to give you a buzz.
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