The cosmopolitan districts of Las Condes and Providencia with its fancy shopping galleries, international restaurants and skyscrapers lie in full contrast with the wide boulevards, cobblestone walkways and historic buildings that can still be appreciated in the downtown area. There is an intense activity in the arts and nightlife. From Santiago you can easily access the Central Valley, where most of Chile’s famous wineries and vineyards are located. Santiago also lies within an hour from spectacular ski resorts, mainly Valle Nevado and Portillo, visited annually by thousands of avid skiers from around South and North America. Santiago is an hour from Valparaiso. The region enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean-like climate year round. The rainy season extends from May to August.