Sip your way through Chile’s wine country and hike the stunning Lake District
MTS packs two of Chile’s regional gems into one well-rounded trip! We begin in Colchagua Valley, recently named “The Next Napa” by Wine Enthusiast magazine, where we’ll hike the region’s steep, sun-kissed valleys and hills, from which Andean peaks are visible—and savor world-acclaimed cabernets, malbecs, and carmenères, of course. Then, we’re off to the cooler climes of the Lake District, where the influence of Mapuche locals and Swiss and German settlers translates into a delightful cultural mélange—visible in everything from the architecture (like Mapuche rukas and German shingled homes) to the language and cuisine (this may be the only place where you can order spaetzle and chimichurri in the same breath!). Here, we’ll explore dairy farms and quaint mountain villages, hike near cobalt lagoons and white-capped volcanoes, and trek through forests of domed araucaria and 1,000-year old alerce trees. We’ll enjoy the region’s exuberant hospitality, sleeping in elegant mountain cottages and enchanting bed and breakfast inns.
Activities
9 days of moderate hiking and wine tasting
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Go wine tasting in world famous Colchagua Valley, recently named “The Next Napa” by Wine Enthusiast magazine
- Visit the diverse Lake District, where Mapuche locals and Swiss and German settlers live in a charming harmony
- MTS packs two of Chile’s regional gems into one well-rounded trip!
Duration: 9 days Start Location: Santiago End Location: Puerto Varas
Download Detailed ItineraryBRIEF Itinerary
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Day 1 : Arrival In Santiago - Santa Rita - Rio Carrillo Reserve
Arrive in Santiago, Chile. Visit Santa Rita winery, visit the Andean Museum, then go hiking in Rio Carrillo Reserve.
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Day 2 : La Ruta del Carbon
We'll make our way to Colchagua Valley today, and hike La Ruta del Carbon, passing by beautiful vineyards. We'll check into our hotel, which is also a winery and taste some of the best wines of the area.
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Day 3 : Tinguirica River - Viña Casa Silva
Hike along the Tinguiririca River, then tour and wine tasting at Casa Silva winery.
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Day 4 : Viña Montes
Hike in Viña Montes. Tour a new winery in Apalta, then spend the afternoon at Las Majadas de Colchagua, one of the most well-known wineries in the Colchagua Valley.
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Day 5 : Canal Route - MontGras winery
We'll hike along the Canal Route for panoramic views of the valley and the Andes. We'll also enjoy a short tour and tasting at MontGras Winery.
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Day 6 : To Puerto Varas
We'll transfer back to Santiago for a flight to Puerto Varas, our gateway to the Lake District.
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Day 7 : Osorno volcano walk & Saltos de Petrohue
Hike around Osorno volcano and visit the Saltos de Petrohue waterfall.
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Day 8 : Lake Todos los Santos Hike
Hike around Lake Todos los Santos before our farewell dinner.
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Day 9 : Return to Santiago
After breakfast, we'll return to the airport to head back home.
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DATES: Best time to go: February - March, December Departures: Dec 20 - 28, 2012 |
PRICING:
2012 Prices $350 internal air |
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Las Majadas De Colchagua
Colchagua ValleyThis historic building was the last masterpiece of its founder, and is now a picturesque hacienda. Constructed from antique wood, complete with high ceilings and traditional pillars, each guest room has a garden view, and the entire property is surrounded by parks filled with lush trees and intriguing flora and fauna.
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Hotel Puelche
Puerto VarasHotel Puelche’s design and architecture follow its very own patterns with a concept of classic lines adapting the traditional to a mountain style. The soberness of its structure provides to each space an environment of warm comfort.
Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.
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