Day Trips From Santiago, Chile

[TwigtheWonderkid]

I'm heading down there next week and will have most of the day I arrive plus the next 2 days to myself.

I was there in March and stayed in Santiago, doing all the tourist stuff and a few walking tours. Actually walked 23 miles in 2.5 days.

This time I thought I might take in a day trip out of the capital. I have to be back at my hotel in the city every night.

Looked on AI and lots of options, but Valle Nevado high up in the Andes looks great, especially as it's mid winter.

Anyone been, or anyone done any other day trips from Santiago they can recommend or warn me off?

Or any hidden gems in Santiago I might have missed first time round. Decent restaurants for dinner at around £25-30? I'm staying in Providencia.

[tog]

I had a couple of days there last year en route to and from Patagonia. On the return leg we visited Viña Santa Rita, a little south of the city. They do tours of the winery and vineyards, and tastings, which were interesting. We stayed at the hotel there however so I'm not sure if they provide transport from the city for the day tours or if you'd need a taxi/bus - don't drive there yourself!

Also ate at Ambrosia on the way southwards which was fantastic, client was paying so not sure of cost but probably not cheap.