Depart for Chile and Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport Santiago (SCL) arriving the following day.

Following your overnight flight you will arrive in Santiago, Chile. You will need to clear customs and immigration before heading up to the domestic terminal (just upstairs) to catch your internal Chilean flight to Puerto Montt Airport (PMC), where you’ll be met by your Skedaddle guides for the trip. The hotel is just a 30-minute transfer away in nearby Puerto Varas. Once settled into our hotel, we’ll have a chance to build our bikes and learn more about the trip ahead.

Puerto Varas (known as ‘La Ciudad de las Rosas’ or ‘The City of Roses‘) is a city well known for its German traditions, food and its beautiful natural setting. The town is worth exploring and we get to sample the range of cuisine on offer, from German pastries – especially the kuchen (cake), cookies, chocolates and craft marmalades alongside the quality meats of the south of Chile. A fitting arrival for a truly unforgettable holiday to come.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Ascent: 540 Metres Approx.

This morning, we set off for our first day in the saddle. One of the largest lakes in South America, the incredible scenery of Lago Llanquihue will be the focus of our day as we travel along its black-sand shores, on a special ‘bike only’ lane.

Nestled amidst the pristine wilderness of Chile, this afternoon we visit the Saltos de Petrohue waterfalls. As we watch the water cascading down in front of the grandeur of Osorno volcano, we’ll get a real sense of the beauty of Patagonia and the scenery we’ll be immersed in throughout the next week or so.

Retiring back to the town of Las Cascadas, we’ll enjoy some traditional Chilean cuisine before settling down as we prepare for a longer day in the saddle tomorrow.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Ascent: 795 Metres Approx.

From Las Cascadas, our journey continues along the picturesque shores of Lago Llanquihue, where the majestic silhouettes of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes dominate the horizon, offering us breathtaking vistas.

As the day unfolds, we find ourselves drawn to the soothing embrace of the Puyehue Hot Springs, a haven of relaxation within a grand hotel that has played a pivotal role in shaping the tourism landscape of the region. Here, amidst the expansive pools, we can indulge in a rejuvenating dip, preparing ourselves for the challenges that lie ahead, including the cheeky climb we have awaiting us tomorrow.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Ascent: 1,660 Metres Approx.

Leaving Lago Puyehue behind us, our day begins with a big steady climb up and over the Andes Mountain range towards the Argentinian border.

The peak reaches approximately 1300 and is the highest altitude for the trip, representing the border between the two countries. After crossing this natural border, we embark on a thrilling 17-kilometer descent towards the border office, followed by a brief journey to our evening retreat. Before entering the charming resort town of Villa Angostura, we cross a quaint bridge spanning the tranquil, turquoise waters of the Rio Correntoso.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Ascent: 1,375 Metres Approx.

We have an early start today as we begin our longest day in the saddle, but well-worth it as we take on one of the most scenic rides of the whole journey as we cycle along the legendary Ruta de las Siete Lagos, Road of the Seven Lakes. This smoother, flatter section of the route gives us a chance to really soak up the views of one of the most popular rides for locals and tourists alike.

After one final push, as we make our last climb of the day we start our winding descent into San Martín de los Andes, giving views over Lago Lacar and the surrounding mountains. San Martin is a real South American treat; get ready to be seduced by its prettiness with plenty of enticing restaurants for a delicious evening meal. With this in mind, once suitably refreshed we set off to explore the town and its array of culinary delights.

• Meals: Breakfast

San Martin de los Andes is the perfect sanctuary for a restful day off the saddle, offering an abundance of options to cater to every traveller. Beyond its picturesque and serene ambiance lies a treasure trove of activities awaiting exploration. Stroll along cobblestone streets, where artisanal shops, charming eateries, and cozy cafes invite you to savour some more of the local flavours amidst glimpses of the town’s historic landmarks.

For those with some energy to spare, venture into the surrounding abundant forest and beautiful azure lakes. Why not give the saddle a ready and explore on foot with a hike in the lush woodlands near Lago Lacar or another of the multitude of activities available.

Our ‘rest day’ is finished off with more exploration of San Martin’s restaurants and a good night’s sleep.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Ascent: 905 Metres Approx.

Leaving San Martin, our journey begins with a delightful glimpse into the daily rhythm of rural life as we pedal through quaint towns. After covering about 40 to 50 kilometers, our route takes us on a challenging ascent, a 20-kilometer climb that marks a transition in scenery from verdant forests and towns to the rugged edge of the Patagonian Desert. Here, the landscape takes on a drier, more rugged character, offering a stark yet captivating contrast to the lush surroundings we’ve become accustomed to. As our day draws to a close, we take a 40-kilometer transfer along a gravel road to reach Rahue, where the rustic charm of Estancia Quillén Lodge awaits to welcome us with open arms, providing a serene retreat amidst the beauty of Patagonia.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Ascent: 360 Metres Approx.

Venturing once more into the forest, our day unfolds with 45 kilometers of smooth tarmac, enjoying the rhythmic hum under our wheels before embarking on a 35km transfer along gravel roads after lunch.

Today’s ride offers a shorter distance, providing a well-deserved respite before tomorrow’s optional climb. As the afternoon sun casts its golden glow, we arrive at the enchanting village in the forest, Villa Pehuenia. Here we can indulge in a taste of Argentina’s finest ice cream or opt for a refreshing dip in the inviting waters from our lakeside hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Ascent: 415 Metres Approx. (Extra 910 Metres Approx - for the optional pass).

Today, we set off on our bikes towards the Chilean border, traversing the stunning landscapes that we have become so delightfully accustomed to. Upon completing the necessary paperwork to enter Chile, our adventure continues as we pedal onwards to the charming town of Icalma.

Icalma Lake holds cultural significance for the Mapuche indigenous people, who have inhabited the region for centuries and continue to celebrate their traditions and heritage in this breathtaking setting. It’s here, amidst the Andean foothills, that we prepare for the next leg of our journey, taking a transfer to Liucura. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking vistas of towering mountains and lush forests that define this remote region.

From Liucura, assuming that we can gain permission from the local authorities, there are two ride options. The shorter option is to ride directly to our accommodation in Lonquimay, a gently rolling ride of approximately 42km.

For those interested in a longer, and more challenging alternative, we have an opportunity to make an out and back ascent to the border with Argentina and the summit of the nearby Pino Hachado Pass. After gaining permission, this option takes us, via a 22km climb, up to 1881m above sea level from where we can enjoy unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside. Having caught our breath, we will turn around to descend the same road to Liucura, where we will pick up the shorter route, ride those remaining 42km and reunite with the rest of the party in Lonquimay.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Ascent: 725 Metres Approx.

Our first 10 kilometers of the day take us towards the Túnel de las Raíces, a historic tunnel dating back to 1929 and stretching an impressive 4,538 meters in length, making it the second longest in South America. Depending on conditions and approval from the tunnel authorities, we can opt to pedal through the tunnel or join the vehicle for a short transfer. Upon emerging from the tunnel, we’ll resume cycling on the other side and continue our journey.

We’ll tackle the climb to up to Volcan Lonquimay in the afternoon.

As we continue our journey through the Andes, the scenery continues to captivate as the high Andean Forest covers the slopes with monkey puzzle trees and forms a great contrast with the towering mountains and snowcapped volcanoes.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch
• Ascent: 385 Metres Approx.

Our final day on the bikes and pedalling through the enchanting valley near the majestic volcanoes of Tolhuaca, Lonquimay, and Llaima, we’ll be surrounded by nature’s grandeur at every turn. These volcanoes are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, adding a thrilling touch of geological wonder to our adventure.

This area isn’t just picturesque; it’s a haven for biodiversity, hosting the sprawling National Parks of Conguillío and Tolhuaca, where ancient forests and crystal-clear lakes beckon explorers. And let’s not forget the hidden gems like the National Reserves of Malleco, Malalcahuello, and Nalcas, where rare flora and fauna thrive under the protective canopy of towering trees. After our exhilarating ride, we’ll bid adios to the pedals and take a short transfer (30kms) to Temuco, where we’ll savour our final evening together, reminiscing about the unforgettable sights and experiences we’ve shared on this epic journey.

• Meals: Breakfast

After a last breakfast together, we make the short transfer to Temuco airport and say our goodbyes before boarding our flights home.