To the Hacienda de Andes

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After we left Pisco elqui we drove back through the valley. We stopped at Montegrande to visit the church and statue of Gabriele Mistral. After than we visited the town of Vicuna. it was a lovely small town very vibrant. The towns here are in direct contrast with the same area of Argentina. There things are poor and the infrastructure is falling apart. It is sad to see what once was and now into Chile we can see what can be. The valleys are irrigated and the country is growing a havest of fruits and vegetables. The small towns are vibrant and full of life and the houses and people look so much better. The infrastructure is being rebuilt and road works were in progress everywhere.

We drove down the valley and stayed the night at the Hacienda de Andes a somewhat faded resort. it was hot and dry and dusty and we spend the evening talking to a couple from the Pacific Island of Marquesa's. In a mixture of English , French and Spanish we were able to share stories. After that we drove on south to Ovalle and onto to La Serena. This bright holiday town is a busy active place full of beach gowers.

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Photos

Elqui Valley
Our cottage in Pisco Elqui

Elqui Valley
Our hotel

Elqui Valley
In the hotel

Elqui Valley
Pisco elqui- our hotel

Elqui Valley
Pisco Elqui church

Elqui Valley
Montegrande and Gabriele Mistral

Elqui Valley
Vicuna- the death mask of Gabriele Mistral in the centre of the Plaza de Armas

Elqui Valley
The Bauer Tower in Vicuna