Valparaiso is the very popular resort on the coast less than two hours from Santiago. The area compromises several towns along the coast with very different atmospheres. I stayed in Quilpué (right next to Valparaiso and Viña del Mar - the two most famous destinations) with a friend through Couch Surfing. Valparaiso is definitely on the To-do-List, and moreover; driving through the country-side outside of Santiago is pretty stellar too!
There are (if you are adventurous) two ways from Santiago to Valparaiso, going west on highway 68 is the quickest, and going north on highway 5 to get off at Tiltil the more adventurous. The later shows a bit more of Chile and the beautiful mountainous area surrounding Santiago. I missed my turn at Tiltil (actually never noticed it) and thus continued north (as opposed to west) onto a stunningly beautiful drive I would otherwise have missed.
The road runs between rolling green "mountains", up and down through the passes, and through small picturesque towns where the animals seem to go freely. The road swirls along the mountain sides on narrow and windy roads forcing you to stay alert in every turn. (Great curve-taking -practice! Watch your speed though!)
It is a detour worth considering, and definitely recommended if time allows! From Tiltil, it will take you right back to F-10 leading on towards the coast! - The drive not only offers an incredible view, but is also very fun to ride.
Once I was back on F-10, I had to slalom down the mountainside on what was still a relatively high-speed road (though the curve-taking speed was lowered to 30-40 km/h). This is something I have never encountered before and was something I enjoyed, along with the setting sun over the mountains in the horizon! (Unfortunately no photo :/ ) - From there on you enjoy a nice cruise to Limache, and get back on the "autopista" (highway) to Quilpué, Viña del Mar, or Valparaiso.
I took highway 68 back to Santiago, and it does also offer a scenic view.
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