Few places in the world provide the sensory journey of Chile. This land is known for its decadent wines, its thriving culture, and a staggering array of natural beauty. This trip is custom built to bring the two together as you sip wines from the most celebrated regions of Chile alongside glittering lakefronts, snow-capped volcanoes, and sugar sand beaches. This is a country to drink in and savor. Take a journey of true indulgence as you experience the vineyards and vintages of Chile, discovering the intricacies of this remarkable nation and your palate along the way
Degree of Difficulty –
Board your overnight flight to Santiago. Upon arrival the next day, you will be met and escorted to your centrally located hotel. Santiago is an architectural collage of old Spanish colonial charm and European elegance. Dive into this timeless city with a tour of the main avenues in the city’s civic center. Explore the narrow avenues and quaint shop windows, eventually arriving at the Plaza de Armas, a picturesque square surrounded by the 18thcentury Cathedral Metropolitana, the National Historical Museum, and the central post office. Indulge in a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers at Barrica 94, where you’ll choose from over 300 wine labels. MAGNOLIA HOTEL.
(Meals Aloft; D)
Listen to the roar of the Pacific Ocean as you head toward the coast. In idyllic Casablanca Valley, you’ll enjoy a sampling of wine and walk among the vines at the Emiliana Winery, alongside an expert pairing of wines and melt-in-yourmouth organic chocolate. The following morning, enjoy a 30-minute scenic journey into the lush countryside of the Maipo Valley. Arrive at the Undurraga Winery and absorb the dramatic, timeless backdrop of the Andes foothills. Continue to Viña Tarapacá in the foothills of the Cordillera de los Andes, where the wines are distilled with the sensibilities of New World wineries in mind. These vintages unfailingly provide excellent quality and consistence. Return to Santiago and your hotel where you will have a few hours to lounge and refresh before dinner. MAGNOLIA HOTEL.
(B,L,D Daily)
Indulge your senses with a tour that caters to decadence today. Vineyards, wine tasting, and gourmet food set the stage alongside a backdrop of local Chilean culture and history. Start at Concha y Toro winery, in the Pirque area. Enjoy a glass of “Terrunyo” Sauvignon Blanc at El Marqués Park. Among the winery’s main attractions are its ancient cellars, and particularly Casillero del Diablo (Devil’s Cellar), where you will learn the truth behind the infamous local legend of the origins of Chilean wine. Continue to Santa Rita, a traditional winery located in the Maipo Valley, where a guide will take you on an insider’s tour through the vineyards, starting at the winery and finishing with bottling. MAGNOLIA HOTEL.
(B,L,D)
Sip local coffee over breakfast before transferring to the airport to catch a quick flight to Puerto Montt, a city known for its architecture and dedication to traditional fishing. See the best vantage points in the city en route to Angelmo, a place for handicrafts and unbelievable cuisine. Continue to Puerto Varas, a little town with German roots, known affectionately to Chileans as the City of the Roses. Breathe in the tranquility at the scenic banks of Lllanquihue Lake, marvel at the rugged Osorno Volcano, and admire the power of nature as you gaze up at the peaks of Mt Tronador. THE CUMBRES PUERTO VARAS.
(B)
A leisurely morning drive along the lakefront will take you to Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, home of the turquoise waters of Petrohue River Falls. You will see the origin of the river in Todos los Santos Lake and spend some time enjoying the volcanic beaches. The source of the Falls, Osorno Volcano, is one of the most active volcanoes in southern Chile, sure to delight visitors with puffs of ash and bright streams of red-hot of lava. On your way to the foot of Osorno, enjoy a detour in the village of Enseñada for lunch and then continue to the Ski Centre of Osorno, enjoying the views of Río Petrohue valley and Llanquihue Lake. THE CUMBRES PUERTO VARAS.
(B,L)
Head to the beautiful island of Chiloé! This afternoon, head into Castro and Chonchi, traveling towards the south of the island, where you’ll discover the beloved Palafitos. Walk to all the major points of the city, including the World Heritage church, craft market, and local fair. The second day will take you on a dizzying tour of some of the most visually arresting places in Chile. From Lake Cucao and the coastal dunes, to the mouth of the Abtao river, and onto Matelqui island with its colony of sea lions. Finish your day at Huelde Lake and the Cole-Cole area, where the beach is perfect for fishing, walking, and horseback-riding. THE TIERRA CHILOÉ LODGE.
(B Daily, boxed L on Day 9)
You have your morning at leisure to relax and enjoy the amenities of your hotel. In the afternoon leave behind this enchanting island and drive back to Puerto Montt to board your flight to Santiago where you connect with your flight back home, arriving the next day.
Prices vary by season and package. Please inquire by phone at (800) 627-1244 or email info@classicescapes.com for more information and a pricing estimate.
The varieties of climatic regions present in Chile are almost too numerous to mention, stretching north to south from the tropics to the sub-Antarctic and with elevations as diverse as Andean peaks and marshes many feet below sea level. The best time for our current itinerary is November through April. Our summer months, June-September, are not a good time to visit as it is too cold in Puerto Varas & Chiloe Island.
