Los Andes

Slightly off the tourist trail but on the main trans-Andes route to Argentina - Los Andes has been a very pleasant place to spend the weekend. Founded by Ambrosio O'Higgins from Ballina in Co Mayo -father of Bernardo who was the 'Libertador' and first president of Chile.

We are here primarily to see the rodeo in nearby San Estaban but have enjoyed the city - an interesting archaeological museum and another pleasant plaza.

From the hotel pool we can see snow-covered Aconcagua (6959m) - the highest peak this side of the Himalayas -and the nearby Cerro de la Virgen (about 200m) which we may climb tomorrow morning.

The other reason for our visit is Ceramica Cala - where we got to see the whole process and do a bit of shopping.

Last weekend in the sunshine - just caught the forecast for snow in Toronto next weekend - but the weather at home seems better.

More on the rodeo later.