Nestled on the edge of the Río Laja, in Chile's VIII Region, you will receive a warm welcome at Fundo Curanilahue. Located just 60 miles from both Concepción Airport and Chillan train station and only an hour from Los Angeles near the Laja waterfalls, the farmhouse is close enough for convenience, yet far enough away to spend a couple of days in the tranquility of the farm. Fundo Curanilahue is a typical Chilean style farm offering the highest quality Southern cuisine and the finest wines, with rooms surrounded by the farm's exquisite gardens. With a view of the snow capped Andes, you can explore this 527 ha /1300 acre farm in the way that best suits your mood: on horseback, walking or just relaxing in the colorful garden watching the humming birds in flight, whilst sipping a Pisco sour! There are five double bedrooms with private bathrooms, situated in the beautiful gardens. The living room and dining room, decorated with traditional Chilean rusticity, are an ideal place to relax and enjoy an early evening drink. The gardens have been carefully nurtured to produce an attractive selection of both exotic and native trees, making it a special experience to walk around in or just relax on sun-beds breathing in the scent of the blossoms. The farm has an organic vegetable garden and an orchard with a variety of fruit trees. Strawberries and raspberries can be picked at one's own leisure. Horse riding around 500 acres of cropland, 700 acres of forests mainly pine and eucalyptus, as well as 100 acres of untouched native vegetation. You have the choice of riding Chilean horses with fleece layered traditional saddles and bridles; or galloping thoroughbreds through alfalfa, sunflower and wheat fields. Trout fishing is offered along 5 kilometers of river bed, as well as trips upriver by boat while watching kingfishers, egrets and herons catch their prey. For keen hikers, there are a number of different trails for exploring and discovering the beauty of the farm, its flora and its fauna. A number of escorted or self-guided tours of the surrounding area can also easily be organized. Furthermore, there is a tennis court and a small heated swimming pool situated in the gardens.

The San Rafael Vineyard is a vineyard deep in the heart of Chile - an incredible place nestled in the foothills of the Andes near Talca and San Rafael. Located in the Maule Valley, the Viña San Rafael is a picture perfect example of the valley's incredible natural landscape and beauty. The vineyard produces top-quality wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Carmenère, Malbec, Syrah and Cabernet Franc. The San Rafael estate is also known for its quality olive oil production. La Casona Las Chilcas is the guest house at Viña San Rafael, an ideal place to taste excellent wines and enjoy great Chilean country cuisine in a colonial- style ambiance. Relax at the pool or hot tub after a hike or bike ride on the trails of the vineyard; or a ride on one of Las Chilcas' horses to discover the valley.

Day 1:Talca - San Rafael - Casona Las Chilcas
Upon arrival at the train station in Talca, you will be transferred to the Casona Las Chilcas, a traditional and colonial-style country home in a very beautiful natural setting. You will be shown around the vineyard and will taste fine wines at one of the three lovely lagoons on the grounds, wine-tasting and nature combine in perfect harmony here. Take some time to relax on the property before an excellent aperitif will be served at the poolside before dinner - of course, the selection of fine wines will perfectly match the food provided. (L,D)

Day 2: Casona Las Chilcas
After a Chilean country-style breakfast you will be free to explore the vineyard and vicinities on horseback. There will be enough time to explore the local flora and wildlife with your guide before lunch. The majestic range of the Andean Mountains will be a constant source of amazement. After another fabulous lunch you will be able to enjoy the pool, take a pleasant walk or go biking on the vineyard. In the late afternoon unwind in the soothing hot tub and have an enjoyable aperitif. Afterwards, the winery's guide will explain the process of making olive oil from blending Spanish varieties Arbequina and Picual. You will be impressed by the diverse flavors during an olive oil tasting. Another extraordinary dinner with a wonderful selection of fine wines will be served in the evening. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Las Chilcas - Talca
After breakfast you will be transferred to the train station in Talca for your continuing travel. (B)