Viña del Mar

Viña del Mar is known as Chile's Ciudad de Jardines. It is located an hour and a half north-west of Santiago and boasts long stretches of white beaches. We caught the bus up Viña for a weekend getaway, where we were spoilt by warm temperatures, sunny skies and blue seas.

We had a picnic lunch in the Plaza José Francisca Vergara, the central square honouring the city's founder, and we also had a look at José's family's Palacio and impressive gardens.

We strolled along the beach front from the Reloj de Flores (Flower Clock), past boutique hotels, amazing seafood restaurants and castles to a sunny spot for sundowners.