At a Glance
Discover the enchanting region of Chile as you meander through 7 breathtaking days traversing awe-inspiring landscapes, towering volcanoes, emerald lakes, and learning its harmonious culture on this biking adventure into the extraordinary.
Your adventure begins in Puerto Varas, after which you take cycle along the shore of Chile's second largest lake, flanked by snow-capped Calbuco and Osorno Volcanoes. Bike through the colonial village of Frutillar, where culture, cuisine, and architecture are well preserved. Explore quiet lakeside roads that lead past bucolic farms, green pastures, and grazing cows. Pass the quaint town of Llifen, famous for its hot springs. Cycle through the Valdivian rainforest to the magical Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve. Pedal a portion of the stunning Seven Lakes Route. Bike the Ironman route, follow the Trancura River, and enjoy views of ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals as specified in itinerary
- All luggage, airport, hotel transfers and shuttle transfers as specified in itinerary
- 6 nights’ accommodation in luxury hotels on a twin share basis
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest to leader ratio on average
- Biking, activities and sightseeing as stated in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre trip information
- Fully equipped titanium bike including helmet and accessories
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
Level 2, Approx. 29 km (18 miles), Elevation gain: 274 m (900 ft) On the first day of the trip, meet your Trip Leaders at 10 a.m. at Hotel Cumbres Puerto Varas, Chile. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with rain gear and anything else you may need for the ride. After meeting in Puerto Varas, known as the City of Roses, your trip Leaders fit your bike and give a brief talk on biking techniques and safety. Then set off on a scenic warm-up ride that provides an introduction to the area's remarkable landscape. We stop at Fundo Playa Venado, a working farm whose Jersey cows help produce artisan cheeses and delicious batches of one of Chile's most famous sweet treats: manjar (known as dulce de leche in neighbouring Argentina). We see how they operate and then enjoy a picnic on the property's grounds. After lunch, cycle along a bike lane through the rolling countryside surrounding Puerto Varas. Our route out of town hugs the shoreline of Llanquihue Lake, Chile's second-largest lake, and offers up beautiful vistas of the towering Calbuco and Osorno Volcanoes. |
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You’ll stay at lakeside, Hotel AWA, a beautiful resort set on 50 acres on the shores of Llanquihue lake and boasting stunning lake and volcano views. Settle in your luxury rooms or unwind by the pool that appears to float outside with a glass wall overlooking the lake. For those in pursue of a pamper session, whisk away to the spa complete with a 25-metre-long 28ºC pool and another 38ºC pool with stunning views of the volcano, a steam room, sauna and treatment room. Tonight, we reconvene followed by a delectable dinner of regional specialties in the hotel’s exquisite dining room overlooking the lake. |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: We start today as we cycle along Llanquihue Lake towards the small quaint town of Ensenada. Here we ride south, cycling through Llanquihue National Reserve and along part of the legendary and scenic Carretera Austral (built in the direction of Augusto Pinochet to link the south of Chile to the rest of the country). Our ride is filled with lakeside panoramas and views of Osorno, an immaculate conical stratovolcano with a permanent ice cap on its summit. Enjoy lunch in Ralún, set at the tip of a fjord and the end of Petrohué River. Later in the evening, we enjoy another mouth-watering dinner at the hotel. |
THREE BIKING OPTIONS: After breakfast, we shuttle to the village of Llanquihue, known for its cured meat and sausage. Start your ride along a lakeside road and the steepness of the road slows your pace a bit so you can take in the serenity of the beautiful landscape with Osorno and Calbuco making a presence in the distance. Heading inland, arrive at Frutillar, a small colonial town known for its beautifully preserved German architecture, pastries, and its stunning locale. Be sure to check out Teatro del Lago, a world-renowned theatre and concert hall on the shores of the lake that took more than 12 years to build. Afterwards, we stop for a delicious lunch of German and Chiloean fare while relaxing at the lakeside. |
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After lunch, we shuttle north to Parque Futangue, a remote private nature reserve on the edge of Ranco Lake, complete with virgin forests, lava fields, lakes, waterfalls, rivers, and more than 100 kilometres of trail (62 miles). If you’d like to cover more ground, you can choose to set on two wheels and cycle into the hotel grounds through a series of challenging hills around the beautiful Lago Ranco. Alternatibvely, join the shuttle to our hotel, Futangue Hotel & Spa, an idyllic hotel set in the Riñinahue Valley within the reserve. Settle into your room, take a moment to take in the breathtaking views from the terrace or head out on foot to explore some of the trails on site. You can enjoy a spa treatment or take a soothing dip in the indoor or outdoor pools (spa treatments at own expense). This evening, we convene to learn a bit about the local culture and cuisine while enjoying empanadas and other regional treats. Later we enjoy a flavourful dinner in the hotel’s restaurant. |
THREE BIKING OPTIONS: We begin today's adventure by setting out on a smooth rural road this morning, leaving Parque Futangue behind and returning toward Lago Ranco. From here, follow the river inland through green fields and fertile farmland passing the quaint town of Llifen, famous for its hot springs, and cycle on to Futrono. For lunch, we stop at a delightful restaurant known for delicious Chilean-style grilled meats and immersive lake views. Then we shuttle to Panguipulli Lake where you have the choice to two-wheel your way through the Valdivian rainforest to the magical Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve. It is one of the most valued and endangered ecoregions on the planet. Spanning over 240,000 acres, the reserve is home to an extraordinary mix of flora (including ferns, lichens, mushrooms, and hundreds of native trees) and fauna (look out for any of the 81 registered birds, Darwin's frog, and the world's smallest deer, the pudú). |
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In the evening, we make our way to our lodge for the night, The Nawelpi Lodge, located in the heart of the reserve on the edge of the Fuy River, surrounded by wilderness. Home to just 12 intimate ensuite bungalows, unwind at your in-room fireplace and private verandah boasting sensational views. Or savour the tranquility at the lodge’s sauna, hot springs, outdoor pool and cosy lounge spaces. This evening, we gather this evening at the lodge for a special barbecue dinner accompanied by live music and dance performance. |
THREE BIKING OPTIONS: Today, see’s you pedaling on a section of the scenic Ruta de Los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route). Journey on quiet rural roads where along the way traverse the serene Lake Calafquén and the largest lake, Panguipulli. Marvel at sweeping views of snowcapped Villarrica, one of Chile’s most active volcanoes. For those fortunate souls, on a clear day, you may chance upon seeing five impressive volcanoes within sight. Be treated to a delightful lunch where you’ll sample the famous Chilean drink, Mote con Huesillos, which is cooked peaches with barely before indulging on traditional pastel de choclo, a corn casserole. Continue riding to the quaint town of Coñaripe on the shores of Calafquén Lake. Journey by shuttle to the energetic town of Pucón and along the Liucura River. Here, you’ll board rafting boats and paddle on calm river waters to the dock of your home for the next two nights, &Beyond Vira Vira. |
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You’ll stay at this elegant Relais & Châteaux member, the intimate Vira Vira is a 56-acre oasis set among lush trees and a natural lagoon. The hotel is also a working farm and cheese dairy, providing fresh and organic ingredients that inspire its chef's traditional Mapuche recipes. Spend time unwinding your tranquil retreat with a lovely stroll on the hacienda’s grounds or relax in the hot tub. This evening, dinner is at your own leisure at the hotel's cosy restaurant. |
THREE BIKING OPTIONS: Begin the day with a shuttle to a local restaurant for a taste of traditional wheat coffee and to sample some appetizers. The restaurant owner is a famous Mapuche woman, local community leader, and reputable cook who shares the history, traditions, and challenges that her community is facing today. From the restaurant, hop on your bike and cycle toward the small Mapuche village of Curarrehue near the border with Argentina. Our ride takes us into Villarrica National Park and includes level riding plus some rolling hills and a heart-pumping climb thrown in for good measure. Not to worry, the breathtaking scenery offers endless inspiration to power you over those hills as you roll along the Trancura River and gaze up at the mighty volcanoes of Villarrica, Quetrupillán, and Lanín. |
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After the ride, enjoy one of Vira Vira's wood-fired hot tubs, take a tour of their small-production cheese factory and organic gardens or relax in one of the many lovely lounges throughout the property. This evening we gather for a farewell cocktail reception at the hotel before moving inside for a farm-to-table dinner. |
Level 1, Approx. 19 km (12 miles), Elevation gain: 0.13m 700 ft) If you'd like to begin your last day with another breathtaking adventure, you can join your trip Leaders on one final spin. Head out from the hotel on a scenic route through farmland and forest for unobstructed views of Villarrica. Midway, we stop at the beautiful Caburgua Lake before heading back to the hotel. If you’d like, you can sleep in and take it easy this morning. We round up this beautiful adventure with a scenic and emotion-filled farewell. You can end the trip in downtown Pucón or opt to take the shuttle from town to the Temuco Airport. We'll provide a packed lunch from a delicious local eatery to eat at your leisure. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Puerta Varas
- The finish point is Pucón or Temuco Airport.
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Puerta Varas. The closest major airport is El Tepual International Airport and is 23 km from the center of Puerto Varas.
The weather in Chile's Lakes & Volcanoes District can vary dramatically from one day to the next. Come with gear for all types of weather (including quality rain gear) to ensure that your trip is enjoyable. Because Chile is in the southern hemisphere, seasons are opposite of those in North America; summer occurs from mid-December through mid-March. Although it is mostly dry during the summer months, there is a high chance of rain, strong winds and cold dense fog at some point during your trip. Temperatures are generally cool early in the morning and late in the evening, sometimes reaching the low 40s. Sunny days can get very hot, even into the triple digits. Wearing layers is the key.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2-4.
Level 1, 2-3 hours, 13-35km (8-22 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 305m (1000 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 29-51km (18-32 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 671m (2200 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 42-68km (26-42 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1036m (3400 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 58-87km (36-54 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m (4400 ft)
Level 5, 5-7+ hours, 77-113+ km (48-70+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m+ (4400+ ft)
Performance Bike Custom-designed titanium bike built for cyclists to power up climbs and speed through the countryside. This performance road bike is lightweight and technologically advanced, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork. Responsive, efficient and comfortable for a drop-bar performance bike, it’s an impressive ride suited to avid riders. Drop handlebars only. Available Accessories: Trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Touring Bike A proven classic, our custom-designed titanium touring bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. Our most popular bike features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability. This touring bike combines a wide range of gears with the ease of an adjustable upright riding position for comfort and efficiency. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Electric Assist Bike A lightweight yet powerful machine unique in the world of e-bikes. One of the lightest e-bikes available, it provides plenty of power (and then some!) to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance. Other outstanding features include the same comfort as our Touring Bikes and lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting. Available for guests 16 or older; not appropriate for pulling a Trailer Bike or a Cub trailer on a Family Trip. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag and flat pedals or toe-cages included. |
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Tandem Bike Hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed cro-moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train, and a custom, upgraded wheelset. Suggested for riders with some tandem experience and on trips with flatter terrain. Due to the tandem's size, frequent racking is not realistic, so there may be fewer opportunities to hop in the van. Dropped handlebars for captain position, upright for stoker. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Rear rack and pannier or trunk bag and Flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals) |
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.