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Our escape to the southern hemisphere for the Xmas /New Year period takes us on a magnificent journey across the Andes from Chile to Argentina. With an ever-changing panorama of volcanoes, snow capped mountains, glaciers, emerald lakes and fantastic rainforest vegetation, this area of Northern Patagonia is undeniably spectacular. Far from civilization for much of the trip, watch condors gliding effortlessly in cloudless skies as we head towards Bariloche and Villa De Angostura, ski resorts that become summer playgrounds for mountain bikers.

Off Road Paradise

Off road paradise Discover a wealth of biking terrain, from undulating dirt roads to technical forest trails, plenty of single-track and even a ski lift assisted climb before a superb downhill. Our total journey is approx 400km with some long days in the saddle but always with vehicle assistance if you just want to take it easy and enjoy the scenery.

Accomodation

We stay in various Lodges, Inns and Hotels as we cross the Andes. The trip includes most meals but for 4 nights we offer a 'go your own way' from the vast selection on offer in Buenos Aires and Bariloche

Travel

Because of the time of year, flights need to be booked well in advance (preferably six months) to ensure the best prices. We will assist in finding flights to suit your arrival /departure dates should you wish to extend your vacation over the festive season.

Prices and Departure date

December 19 2009 to January 2 2010 (14 nights) £1690 +International flights from approx £800, Internal flights from £200

Prices for the holiday include shared B&B Hotel, Lodge and guesthouse accommodation, 12 lunches/11 evening meals, private transfers, guiding /vehicular support, park entry fees, bilingual bike guide.

Supplements

Sole occupancy of room +£250

Pictures

Day 1

After setting up the bikes there’s time to
relax and visit the attractive harbour area
in Puerto Montt.

Day 2

A great start as we ride on narrow roads
around the beautiful Llanquihue lake.

Day 3

With the snow capped Osorno volcano
towering above us we head through typical ‘Valdivian’ rainforest towards Ensenada.

Day 4

Three ferry trips and some amazing biking
as we cross the border into Argentina.

Day 5

After some demanding riding to cross the Andes, it's time for some fun on the single tracks at Catedral's ski resort. By cable cars we get to the top of Cerro Catedral, a famous ski center that becomes an adventure resort in summer and then ride a couple of incredible downhills. 25 km of single tracks and technical rocky paths.

Day 6

The most beautiful single track in Patagonia, the Rio Manso, is 20km of awesome fun in the lakeside forests.

Day 7

Another day that mixes beautiful landscapes and great views with 15km of single tracks and the coolest downhills. A steep 6km climb to the top of Cerro Otto then its down, down, down through the forest.

Day 8

After a free morning in the streets of Bariloche or by the Nahuel Huapi lakeside we transfer to Cerro Bayo by cable car
for an exciting 18km downhill.

Day 9

24km through fantastic forest scenery, "Peninsula de Quetrihué" is one of the best single tracks that you will ever ride!

Day 10

59 km of dirt roads for those that want it on the 'Camino de los siete lagos' (Seven lakes path) crossing Rio Correntoso, the worlds' shortest river.

Day 11

Get your breath back today. A short ride takes us south from Rio Traful to arrive in Confluencia.

Day 12

A great ride for our last day in the Andes - climbing 1400 m in the spectacular red and dry landscape of the "El Paso del Córdoba" (Cordoba Pass). An exciting downhill before we transfer to "San Martin de los Andes".

Day 13

An internal flight to Buenos Aires leaves time for some sightseeing before an overnight stay.

Day 14

Evening flight back to London.