andBeyond Vira Vira

Located in the picturesque Araucanía region of Chile’s Lake District, homeland of the courageous Mapuche people, is a spectacular 22-hectare (34-acre) estate: Vira Vira.

Dramatic landscapes of breathtaking glacial lakes mirror the snowy tips of nearby volcanoes, while within the rainforests gracing the surrounding national parks, evergreen Araucaria araucana (monkey puzzle) trees, some over 1 000 years old, stand tall. This region is both the gateway to Patagonia, and a thrilling adventure haven.

Immersed on an expansive, forested estate with 822 m (2,696 ft) of river frontage and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Villarica Volcano, this magnificent wooden lodge is themed in beauty.

Enormous windows frame exquisite outlooks, while vibrant wall tapestries, hand-woven textiles and other traditional artefacts colour the interior décor. Signature features include a modern working farm, organic farm-to-table vegetable garden, on-site boutique cheese factory and two outdoor hot tubs.

Ideally appointed accommodation, overlooking either the estate surrounds or the Liucura River, includes six cosy suites, 12 split-level villas with a separate living room, and a five-bedroom, sole-use Hacienda for up to 10 guests.

Ensuite bathrooms include a separate bath and walk-in shower. Floor to ceiling windows fills the spacious wooden interiors with natural light. Each guest unit is individually decorated with a selection of curated objects and richly-textured rugs, wall hangings and fabric.

FARM-TO-TABLE
Mealtimes are undoubtedly one of the main highlights of the lodge – an extravagant and mouth-watering affair! Discover the flourishing organic vegetable garden, and relish sublime farm-to-table dining with fresh produce and ingredients. The estate even boasts a modern cheese factory.

FINEST GUIDES
The spectacular and diverse terrain surrounding the lodge lends itself to a wide range of seasonal adventures – a collection of 39 activities and experiences, hosted by expert and engaging guides. All excursions will be specifically tailored around your particular interests and personal fitness levels.

WINTER ACTIVITES
Head to the snow-filled winter playground of Vira Vira. There is something for enthusiasts of every age and ability: from heli-skiing to snowshoeing, snowboarding to snowmobiling, ski packages and ski lessons. Where else in the world can you enjoy these activities on an active volcano?

COMMUNITY VISIT
Explore the fascinating cultural and culinary heritage of Chile’s indomitable Mapuche people. Enjoy lunch at a traditional ruka (house) and learn about their unique ways of life first hand. Visit a Mapuche weaver and watch her time-honoured traditional skill as she works with the loom.

Trekking in Villarrica National Park
&BEYOND Vira Vira is surrounded by spectacular natural terrain. The homeland of the indigenous Mapuche people, the region surrounding the lodge offers a vast selection of hiking/trekking excursions. In the company of one of our experienced guides, explore national parks that showcase beautiful forests, shimmering bodies of water, waterfalls, hot springs and the breath-taking terrain of majestic volcanoes draped with snow-capped peaks. Discover the beauty of Villarrica National Park and various trails on the border of Argentina and Chile.

Treks require sturdy hiking boots, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen (walking poles and a backpack are optional). Treks vary on difficulty levels, durations and restrictions, and some are seasonal, so please be sure to check with your guide on arrival.

Pichillancahue Glacier
Walk inside an araucaria (monkey puzzle) tree and coigue forest. The ground is dappled with pyroclasts (volcanic fragments also known as tephra) due to the last eruption in 2015.

The closer you get to the glacier, the more captivated you will be at the incredible views of four different volcanoes. Pass through a cave in order to see the phenomenal glacier itself.

Cerro Espejo
Hike through a forest of native coigues, raulies, canelillos, lengas and colihues. Reach the base of the Villarrica Volcano and observe volcanic footprints left by past eruptions and araucarias (monkey puzzle) trees.

Continuing to the top of Cerro Espejo, capture dramatic views of the Villarrica, Quetrupillan and Lanin Volcanoes, as well as the impressive Andes Mountain range.

Ascension Volcano
Measuring an impressive 2847m (1.7 miles), the Villarrica Volcano features the perfect cone shape with a startling open lava pool crater at the top.

This makes climbing the volcano one of the most memorable activities. From the top, view a textured landscape of mountains, volcanoes and countless lakes. This activity is at an additional cost.

Villarrica Traverse
Heading towards the Villarrica Volcano, start this trek near the ski centre which sits at 1400m (0.8 miles) above sea level. Walk around the base of the volcano, with postcard-perfect views of the region’s Villarrica and Calafquen Lakes.

A panorama of the Llaima volcano is in sight, and walking at the base of Villarrica allows you to observe volcanic scorias left by the eruptions, a rare sight to view.

Crateres Parasitos
At the base of the Villarrica Volcano, begin the trek at 1175m (0.73 miles), passing volcanic scorias. Walk through a dense native forest before reaching an observatory located at 1400m (0.8 miles) and enjoy wonderful views of the surrounding lakes and volcanoes. Continuing the walk and reach a lava formation where it is possible to find parasitic craters.

Quillehue Lagoon
On the Argentinian border, one-hour drive from &BEYOND Vira Vira, arrive at the Quillehue Lagoon where the walk leads to the base of the Lanin Volcano. Passing beautiful Araucaria, lenga and coihue trees, continue to the hidden lagoon and into a forest covered with lichen.

Laguna Verde
This trek begins at the Quillehue Lagoon on the Argentinian border. The walk takes 3h30min and consists of a trail through native trees that climbs up to 1900m (1.1miles) reaching the base of the Lanin Volcano. Expect captivating views of this volcano as well as the Andes Mountains.

Andean Lakes Trail
This exciting walk starts at Quillehue Lagoon, where you wind your way between araucaria (monkey puzzle) trees, lenga and coihue trees, with fascinating views of the Lanin Volcano. End off the trail with a local Mapuche feast.

Birdwatching
Exciting excursions allow birders to visit different habitats, such as mountains, lakes, rivers and forests to search high and low for the iconic species in the area.

At times, bird calls might lead you to capture stunning sightings of the giant magellanic woodpecker, ringed kingfisher, chucao tapaculo, snowy egret, black-crowned night heron, plumbeous rail and Andean condor, to name but a few!

As well as enjoying the resident birdlife, the exquisite surrounds of majestic volcanoes and shimmering Andean lakes add to the experience.

For guests not wanting to venture too far from the lodge, a walk around the perimeter of the estate can produce white-throated treerunner, Chilean flicker, thorn-tailed rayadito, tufted tit-tyrant, grey-hooded sierra finch, yellow-billed pintail, black-faced ibis, black-necked swan and southern lapwing without too much effort.

Heli-skiing
Immerse yourself in virgin powder snow as you embark on a thrilling heli-skiing adventure. Soar above the breathtaking snowy peaks in a helicopter and land in a remote area, possibly untouched by other outdoor enthusiasts.

Get your adrenalin pumping as you survey the vast mountains, vertical drops and untracked powder while deciding on your ideal route. This is an ideal destination for heli-skiing with a vast playground at your mercy fringed by stunning alpine scenery.

Scenic helicopter flight
Explore the magnificent landscapes around &BEYOND Vira Vira on a scenic helicopter flight, and marvel at the region’s beautiful lakes, forests and snow-capped volcanoes.

Setting off from the lodge, hop aboard our helicopter, and soar across the Lake District passing over the active crater of the Villarrica Volcano. As if this weren’t spectacular already, the view also encompasses other volcanoes and valleys – a truly unique experience!

Drift boat excursion
Enjoy a glorious scenic river excursion, gliding along clear waters toward Villarrica Lake. &BEYOND Vira Vira is fronted by the beautiful Liucura River. It is from here that you will set off on a rafting boat.

Ideal for relaxation and contemplating nature, this tranquil excursion allows you to gently make your way past pristine landscapes of lush rolling mountains and native forest, whilst observing aquatic birds, and even trout and salmon darting through the water, along the way.

Your serene floating experience comes to an end with a delicious picnic. This experience is best enjoyed on the afternoon of your arrival as it requires little physical effort.

Cheese factory tour
Located on the Vira Vira property is a tempting cheese factory (quesería). Local cheese-maker, Marisol Martinez, is renowned for her wholesome, authentic and flavourful cheeses that get devoured by our guests.

The ultimate foodie delight, enjoy a tour of this delicious quesería and gain insight into the specific ways different cheese, including Parmesan, Gruyère, Blue cheese and Camembert are produced.

Glimpse into what goes into creating top-quality cheese, and marvel at the massive wheels of slowly maturing cheeses, and the various ways to produce soft and hard cheeses.

Sample and enjoy the superb flavours and textures of the various cheeses. None of the cheeses produced are for retail, they are for the exclusive delight of the guests’ palate.

Trekking in Huerquehue National Park
&BEYOND Vira Vira is surrounded by spectacular natural terrain. The homeland of the indigenous Mapuche people, the region surrounding the lodge offers a vast selection of hiking/trekking excursions.

In the company of one of our experienced guides, explore national parks that showcase beautiful forests, shimmering bodies of water, waterfalls, hot springs and the breath-taking terrain of majestic volcanoes draped with snow-capped peaks.

Discover the beauty of Huerquehue National Park and enjoy various trekking options. Each trek requires sturdy hiking boots, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen (walking poles and a backpack are optional).

Treks vary on difficulty levels, duration and restrictions, and some are seasonal, so please be sure to check with your guide on arrival.

San Sebastian
This trek starts within Huerquehue National Park “the place of the messenger”, 20km (12.42miles) from the lodge, and trails through a temperate rain forest surrounded by coihues, maquis and other species of trees.

After 1 hour walking uphill, arrive at the Quinchol pampa and meander among araucaria (monkey puzzle) trees, one of the most beautiful and unique species of trees in the area. Continue uphill for a further 2 hours to the summit of San Sebastian, and on the way capture spectacular views of lakes and volcanoes.

Quinchol
Setting off from the lodge, head to the Huerquehue National Park and walk through a lush forest, slowly ascending Quinchol. After 40 minutes of trekking, come upon the picturesque araucarias (monkey puzzle) trees, and the pampas at the top of the hill. You are met with mesmerising views of volcanoes and lakes.

Los Lagos Huerquehue
On arrival at Huerquehue National Park, follow the trail surrounded by centenary trees. Marvel at the sweeping views of Lake Tinquilco and Villarrica Volcano as you climb the hill, and as you reach the top, view the sparkling lakes surrounded by araucaria (monkey puzzle) trees.

Aquila and Truful Waterfall
Arrive at Huerquehue National Park and trek along a route surrounded by centenary trees. As you climb the hill, marvel at the sweeping views of Lake Tinquilco and Villarrica Volcano, and reach the first waterfall (Nido de Aguila or Eagle’s Nest) before continuing on to the second waterfall (Truful). Both of these waterfalls are sourced from lakes that converge at the top of the hill.

Ñirrico
This trek is ideal for those looking for a beautiful, gentle walk through the temperate rain forest, surrounded by coihues, maquis, avellanos, colihues (native bamboo) and other trees. The trail meanders past a viewpoint overlooking Tinquilco Lake and charming waterfalls.

Catch-and-release fishing
Spend a day immersed in the spectacular surrounds of &BEYOND Vira Vira, with just the sounds of a streaming river or lapping lake as your companion, and enjoy either fly-fishing or spinner fishing where all equipment is provided.

Cast your line for rainbow trout, brown trout, or chinook salmon and choose to go out in a boat to explore a wider expanse, or possibly even forget about fishing and just marvel at the terrain.

Our guide will show you the best spots for both river and lake fishing, providing you the best fishing experience in the area.

Mountain biking
What better way to explore the lush native forests and volcanic slopes of the region than on two wheels? Perfect for avid mountain bikers, &BEYOND Vira Vira offers various half-day as well as full-day excursions to spectacular areas boasting breath-taking terrain.

Explore the rugged landscapes of Villarrica National Park, traverse around the tranquil Villarrica Lake, and climb craggy craters at the foot of the Villarrica Volcano on your bike.

Choose between easy going, non-technical off-road biking and smooth flowing single tracks or, for technically skilled riders, extreme downhill tracks. This area boasts trails and terrains to fit all levels and preferences.

Rio Plata, Quetroleufu
This excursion begins just 10 minutes from the lodge. Ride through a field full of farm animals, taking in the views of the Villarrica Volcano, and skirt along the Liucura River.

Reach the observatory located at the Quelhue Bridge, and view the Trancura River as well as the Quetrupillan and Lanin Volcanoes. The ride culminates with a stop at the Rio Plata Beach to admire the beautiful spectacle of the volcano, before returning to the lodge.

El Cerduo, Villarrica National Park
Nestled between hills and rivers, cross a field surrounded by young forest and reach a high point with panoramic views of the Andes Mountain Range (known as the Cordillera). It is hard to take your eyes off the views of the Villarrica Volcano from this spot, as it is simply sensational.

Saltos De Mariman, Quetroleufu
Leave the lodge by bike and ride along an inner trail with gorgeous views of the Villarrica Volcano until you reach an ecopark. From here, walk to an observatory to view the cascading Trancura River Waterfalls.

Horseback riding
After a short, scenic 4×4 drive from the lodge, arrive at Huepil Malal, a horse riding centre bordering the Cañi Natural Reserve.

Here, you will meet an authentic Chilean huaso (cowboy). His horses are gems of national breeds with typical names like Merken, Calafate or Canela. You will be guided on a scenic tour through open prairies and forests.

This excursion is for all abilities, from those who just wish to meander through the breath-taking beauty to advanced riders who wish to gallop across the sensational landscape. Your host, Rodolfo, was a former trainer of the Spanish Olympic horse riding team.

Stand-up paddle boarding
Enjoy a fun day out splashing in the pristine waters around &BEYOND Vira Vira. Starting at the lodge, paddle down the Liucura River, and take in the spectacular natural surrounds of volcanoes, kaleidoscopic birds swooping through the air, and lush forests.

Additionally, we can arrange stand-up paddle boarding on Lake Tinquilco if you would like a change of scenery.

White-water rafting
Hang on tight as you race over rapids on a thrilling white-water rafting adventure. Just 15 minutes from &BEYOND Vira Vira, your riveting excursion will be in the Trancura River.

Before setting off, there will be a safety briefing and testing the equipment. Ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers, the Trancura River features class 3 and 4 rapids.

Zigzagging through valleys and gullies, there are numerous runs and the rapids including the Junction, the Lioness, the Wall and the Footbridge.

This adrenalin pumping experience is made all the more sensational by the scenery comprised of the Villarrica Volcano at every turn, and beautiful hills draped by forests.

Skiing & snowboarding
Exciting adventures await with our snowboarding and skiing activities down the active Villarrica Volcano. A variety of slopes are on offer from beginners to more advanced ski runs.

A spectacular environment of volcanic peaks and shimmering lakes, the flowing lava has created an incredible terrain of natural half pipes, cornices and wind lips.

Snowshoeing
Embark on a snowshoe trekking expedition through puffy snow as you carve trails around Villarrica National Park. This is a spectacular way to explore untouched landscapes, with absolute silence dominating the vast expanse surrounding you.

The Andes is a magical winter space between June and September, an incredible experience created for all levels of fitness. This exciting adventure begins and ends with steaming mugs of hot chocolate.

Enjoy an incredible hiking trip to the top of the Villarrica Volcano, offering breath-taking sights of the entire region and Villarrica Lake.

If you are up for an adventure, climb the Villarrica Volcano with an ice-pick and crampons. Marvel at the sights from the top of the crater and slide down on the snow! An incredible experience!

Heli-biking
This is an exhilarating, tailor-made biking experience, planned with our helicopter pilot. Leave the lodge at your preferred time, and enjoy a scenic 20-minute flight to the Villarrica Volcano.

Once landed below the snow and ice on the side of the Volcano, you will hop on your bike for a thrilling, 1hr downhill trail ride that follows a cross country track over lava fields, along the border of Turbio River.

This terrain requires superior, technical biking skills as all the heli-biking routes follow a volcanic course peppered with volcanic gravel. After the ride, a vehicle will be waiting to bring you back to the lodge.

Ask your pilot and guide if you want to do more than just one epic downhill trail and additional options can be explored at your convenience.

Ensure that you are adequately equipped with warm clothing and a windproof jacket, as temperatures while heli-biking can plummet to 8°C (17.6°F), even in summer months. This adrenaline-fuelled adventure is not for the faint-hearted, but if you are passionate about heli-biking, it doesn’t get any better than this.

Community visit
Explore the charming town of Curarrehue, nestled between towering mountains, and visit a Mapuche weaver to view her traditional skills and techniques as she works with the loom. Afterwards, continue up into the Andes to the Quillelhue Lagoon, located at the foot of Lanin Volcano.

Here you will have the opportunity to see the majestic araucaria trees (known as monkey puzzle trees), followed by a lunch at a traditional Mapuche ruka (house).

The Mapuche people consider Villarica Volcano or Ruka Pillán as the “House of the Spirit of the Ancestors”. Deeply connected with “mother earth” these enchanting people base their traditions around nature. During your visit to the “ruka” you will learn about their unique ways of life first hand.

Website: www.andbeyond.com

Rooms: 21

Price: from 915 EUR per night