Chile’s move toward cool-climate viticulture began 25 years ago when innovative winemakers dared to suggest planting in the pre-coastal Casablanca region. The valley is now world-famous for its technology and commitment to terroir, producing some of Chile’s best white wines and cool-climate reds.
White sand beaches on Chile’s Central Coast
Day 1 – Casablanca to Algarrobo
After a one-hour drive from Santiago, we will begin our biking adventure with a tasting to celebrate the start of the ride at the award-winning Veramonte winery, where expression of original terroir is the key to success. Each wine is a reflection of the unique combination of soil, geography, and climate, and all at Veramonte nurture this philosophy in all aspects of the process from seed to table. The result is wine of outstanding quality, such as the Primus Cabernet/Merlot/Carmenere blend and Ritual Pinot Noir.
We’ll hop on our bikes and head to Loma Larga vineyards. Named “Winery of the Year 2011” by Wine & Spirits magazine, Loma Larga continues to represent the best of the Casablanca Valley. Loma Larga sets the bar for quality cold-climate red wines with several award winners and consistent 90+ point ratings by such prestigious publications as Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate. Here, we’ll enjoy a tour through the winery and a tasting paired with an energizing snack.
To refuel, we’ll stop for lunch in the small agricultural town of Las Dichas for traditional Chilean empanadas, locally-made cheese, and bread before biking to Algarrobo, an old and elegant summer retreat with beautiful and calm beaches.
Meals: Lunch
Day 2- Algarrobo to Quintay
This morning, we ride to Tunquén, one of the most spectacular beaches on the Central Coast of Chile. Two miles of sand, gentle slopes and a breathtaking landscape will undoubtedly make Tunquén one of your best memories of the trip. Next, we will reach the old whale harbor of Quintay which has been transformed into an enchanting destination. Here we will taste the magnificent “Caldillo de Congrio,” accompanied of course by generous Chilean wines as we share in the sentiment of Pablo Neruda’s famous Ode: “…and to the table come newly wed the flavors of land and sea, that in this dish you may know heaven.”
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Recommended trip combinations:
Biking in the Casablanca Valley
This tour is available to begin Monday thru Saturday during the months of October thru May.
Price per Person (US$): $774.00
*based on a minimum of 2 travelers
*Prices valid through August 31st, 2014.
Chile’s Central Coast
Price Includes:
The Winery Hotel
This chic hotel is located in the coastal town of Algarrobo, where many aristocratic Chileans often vacationed because of the area’s natural beauty and tranquility. The Winery Hotel is ideally located close to the beaches and city center, and features 13 modern suites (free WiFi in all), a Pilates studio, a pool, hot tub, restaurant, and an unparalleled experience in luxury.
The Winery Hotel
