Winter sports on the volcano

Outdoor adventures around the andBeyond Vira Vira Lodge in Chile

Winter sports were one of those things in Europe this year. But it's a good thing there are alternatives. Because winter is yet to come on the other side of the world. One of the snow paradises of the European summer awaits in Chile. But instead of mountain ridges, you'll be rushing down active volcanoes with a view of cobalt blue lakes.


Skiing in Pucón

Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobile tours or a sleigh ride with huskies: in the winter months from July to October, guests can indulge in their favorite outdoor hobbies in Pucón, in the middle of Chile's lake and volcanic landscape. While the South American summer from December to April is all about trekking, rafting, mountain biking, horse riding or kayaking, in winter it's time to dress warmly! The snowy landscape around the andBeyond Vira Vira Lodge invites you to get active. In addition to fun on the slopes, the 3000-metre-high Villarrica promises adrenaline rushes of a different kind. After all, it's not every day that you hurtle down an active volcano. Guests can choose from a variety of slopes. Both beginners and advanced skiers will get their money's worth here.

The solidified lava has created an extraordinary terrain. Natural halfpipes and snow cornices make for interesting descents. Those who would rather go up than down can climb the volcanic crater equipped with ice axes and crampons. Things are more leisurely in the valley, where you can experience nature up close on a sleigh ride through snow-covered lava fields and araucaria forests. At the lodge, winter sports enthusiasts warm up in the two outdoor whirlpools, stretch during an extensive yoga session or treat themselves to a massage in the spa. The day ends with a glass of Chilean wine and cheese from the lodge's own cheese dairy.

The Vira Vira Lodge near Pucón in Chile, which only opened in 2018, was the first lodge of the South African luxury safari operator andBeyond on South American soil. It goes without saying that socially and ecologically responsible action is also important here. Anyone who travels with andBeyond helps to protect valuable nature reserves. More than nine million hectares of land and 2,000 kilometers of coastline worldwide are already under the intensive protection of andBeyond.

Further information and booking: www.andbeyond.com