Santiago
Santiago sits in a valley between the coastal mountain range and the mighty Andes, all reaching altitudes of over 7000m, with constant snow capped summits that can be seen year round. Among Santiago’s sights are the neo-classical architecture of the Presidential Palace, the Plaza de Armas and the Pre-Columbian museum with over 700 exhibits. There is also the opportunity to shop through one of its many traditional handicraft markets
Within 60 km of the capital are the ski resorts of La Parva and Valle Nevado, with 25 runs, 15 ski lifts each and a huge off-piste area. Its close proximity to Santiago makes it ideal for day trips from the capital or if one prefers a longer more thorough investigation.
For the wine aficionado over 80 vineyards lie within a 2 hour drive of Santiago. The ‘new’ world wines that have come from Chile over recent years have made a large impact on the international market. You have the opportunity to visit a range of vineyards, from mass-production establishment such as Concha y Toro and Cousino Macul, to small scale, family-run enterprises. For the more adventurous, white water rafting provides a good escape from the city. Experienced guides will navigate you through the rapids, followed by lunch at the base of the Animas waterfalls. THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Below are some sample itineraries for the region. These are just some of our ideas, we are able to put together any trip that suits your requirements
Visiting vineyards. This tour has been designed to show the different facets of wine production in the Colchagua valley. You will visit three vineyards; one of mass production, one smaller scale emerging vineyard and a producer of organic wines. We also offer more extensive trips into the Maipo valley, visiting such vineyards as Concha y Toro and Santa Rita. These trips are usually for 3D/2N. White water rafting. For those with an appetite for adventure, and wanting to escape from the city, there is a morning of class III rapids to go down. This is followed by a hot shower, lunch at the waterfalls, and in the evening you may relax by the pool or enjoy a sauna before returning to Santiago.
Santiago city tour. Santiago is a thriving city with much to visit. This ½ day tour provides an insight into the Chilean capital’s colonial past. Among the sights included in this tour is the ‘La Moneda’ presidential palace, the city’s main square the Plaza de Armas, the national congress, the supreme court of justice and the cathedral. The hill of Cerro San Cristobal provides a breathtaking finale with its views of the city and the Andean Mountains.
SKIING
Portillo. Located 150km from Santiago, this is the oldest ski resort in Chile. Situated at 3350m it has 23 runs broken down into 24% easy, 33% intermediate and 43% difficult to expert. Aside from this there is plenty of powder snow and off-piste skiing, including heli-ski and snowboarding.
Valle Nevado. Situated an hour away from the city centre and containing 4 different resorts with a total of 104 trails and a huge off-piste area, it is the biggest in South America. Valle Nevado, though the youngest of the resorts, has an infrastructure and services comparable to those of Europe and North America. With 27 runs spread over an area of 32 km, and include diverse activities such as heli-ski, snowboarding, snowmobiles and dog sledging!
Recommended lodges in this area:
Santiago
The Aubrey is Santiago's first design boutique hotel, located in the bohemian neighbourhood of Bellavista, the cultural heart of the city. The hotel is housed within a beautifully restored, 1927 mansion, at the foot of the Metropolitan Park
Santiago
Le Reve Boutique Hotel is designed for those who demand premium service during their stay as well as an unforgettable experience. It is located in a neighbourhood with its own personality and best enjoyed on foot
Santiago
The Lastarria boutique hotel is a lovely colonial quarter of the city and some lovely cosy facilities. The boutique hotel opened the doors of this renovated 1927 Mansion in May 2011, offering a true new addition to the centre of Santiago.
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