VII Region: Main Cities
CURICÓ
Capital of the province located at 186 km. south of Santiago. Founded in 1743 by Don José Antonio Manso de Velasco who gave it the name San José de Buena Vista. Curicó is a Mapuche name which means “Black Water”.
Known to the country as ” the city of cakes” ( made of Manjar and Egg fruit), and for the good wine must. It is a land of fertile farms which has given the city its distinguished countryside cultural sediments.
The most known attraction of the city are the Plaza de Armas, declared a “Typical Zone”, which is surrounded by palm trees, sculpture-ornamented water fountains, the iron-made civil kiosks, also declared a National Monument and the Toqui Lautaro monument carved on the trunk of a beech tree, created by the known craftsman of Vichuquén, Heraclio “Kako” Calquín. At a few blocks from the plaza, the Alameda Antonio Manso de Velasco avenue crosses the city with its gardens and leafy trees. There is also the Condell hill, a place from which you can have a panoramic view of the city and you can also sight the San Francisco church, a declared National Monument, situated at the feet of the same hill.
TALCA
The regional capital located at 257 km. south of Santiago. It is also a major cultural, economical and industrial relevance center of the region. It was founded in 1742 by Don Antonio Manso de Velasco who gave it the name Agustín de Talca.
A historical city and a scenario of many historical events. It was here that Don Bernardo O’Higgins signed the act of the Independence of Chile on the 2nd of February 1818 in the building that is now called the O’Higgins Museum of Fine Arts, also a declared National Monument.
It has important universities and among its attractions are the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, the Alameda Bernardo O’Higgins avenue, Rio Claro resort and the Virgin’s hill. At only 10 km. from the city, you will reach the Huilquilemu Cultural Villa, a declared a National Monument. The city’s surroundings offer authentic countryside places along with other pre-Andes, Andes and coastal sectors.
LINARES
Capital of the province with the same name, located at 305 km. south of Santiago and at 53 km. south of Talca. Founded in 1794 by Don Ambrosio O’Higgins. Linares constitutes an important industrial and commercial center where the Iansa plant is located, a producer of beet sugar. Among its attractions are the Cathedral Church, the Art and artesian Museum, Plaza de Armas, the Municipal Market and the Alameda Valentín Letelier avenue. At a nearby distance, you would find the Panimávida spas ( 21 km.), the Quinamávida spas ( 15 km.), Yerbas Buenas ( 12 km.), the artisan shops of Vara Gruesa, Rari and Quinamávida and the lakes of Colbún and Manchicura.
CAUQUENES
Capital of the province located at 155 km. south-east of Talca. Founded in 1742 by Don Antonio Manso de Velasco. It is a calm city that still conserves its old houses that date to the end of the XIX century. It is known for its production of excellent quality wines and country side food. The Plaza de Armas, densely planted with trees, is the main visiting place of the city and which also congregates the main Public Buildings. The Main market, constructed of wood, is the favorite place visitors who would like to by some artisan articles made of clay, quarry and wood. There are also the Tutuvén and Cauquenes rivers, the San Alfonso temple, and at the surroundings of Tutuvén and El Boldo artificial lakes you would find artisan articles made by the craftsmen of Pilén and Name hill, at the feet of which lays a lagoon rich in bird fauna.
There are two alternative access roads to Cauquenes: the first is through the “Ruta de Los Conquistadores” route which starts from the San Javier locality located at 21 km. south of Talca (San javier-Cauquenes 91 km.), the second alternative is through the Panamericana 5 highway which starts from the city of Talca and reaches Parral at 92 km. from where a deviation is located to go to Cauquenes 61 km.
The Andes, Mountains and Hills
LOS QUEÑES
Located at 42 km. east of Romeral.
It is a pre-Andes resort at 600 m. above sea level, situated at the connection of the Claro and Teno rivers. Its waters are not contaminated and is ideal for the fishing of Salmon and Trout.
The place is also apt for activities such as promenades, excursions, fishing sport, promenades on horse back and rafting on the river Teno.
It has picnic and camping place.
POTRERO GRANDE
An attractive Andes sector located at 25 km. south-east of Curicó. The place stands out for its native Fauna and Flora and for the diversity of activities that can be practiced such as camping, excursions, picnic, fishing and swimming in the river.
EL RADAL – PARQUE INGLES SECTORS
Located at the pre-Andes area at a height between 600 to 2150 m. above sea level and at 45 km. south –east of Molina. It can be accessed through an unpaved and graveled road.
The sector is characterized by its natural beauty of plants species such as beech, mañío, laurel, oak, coigüe, cypress, radal, terebinth shrub, in addition to the well-known waterfalls of the Claro river which pierce through the rocks giving the place its unique beauty. At a nearby distance, there is the Velo de La Novia, waterfalls that come down from approximately 50 m. and El Salto de la Leona waterfalls. This sector gave origin to an area called “Radal 7 Tazas”, a National Reservation. The Parque Inglés, a starting point for excursion activities , is located at 9 km. from El Radal. The excursions are usually done towards the interior of the Andes, visiting valleys, ravines and natural spas surrounded by the Fauna of the area.
THE VENADO VALLEY
Located at 20 km. east of the “Altos del Licary” National reservation.
It is an Andes valley that has some ravines where “Loro Tricahue” nests. The Decabezado Grande and Descabezado Chico volcanoes are located in this sector.
In the valley, the Claro and Blanquillo river flow and where one can practice sport fishing.
Moreover, there are other sectors apt for camping and can be discovered on foot or on horse back.
In Vuilcehes Alto, there are places for camping, lodging and food.
THE PEHUENCHE PASSAGE
To access the Pehuenche Passage, you would pass through many sectors such as Armerillo at kilometer 70, then continuing via the international road. At kilometer 90, there are the sectors of La Suiza, Las Garzas and Curillinque. In the latter, you would find a bridge over the Maule river and the bifurcation that leads to La Mina, located at kilometer 113 and where the Customs offices, the Police station, the Office of Agriculture and Cattle control service and the Investigation Police offices are located.
In kilometer 116, there are the El Médano Spas which are frequented in the summertime for their healing qualities. A few kilometers to the top and at kilometer 127, the impressive Campanario valley can be observed. Walking a short distance in it, you would reach the campanario baths. By retaking the main road leading to the international borders, you would find site seeing places of extraordinary beauty of the mountains which generally have erosion marks which has a natural rocky form. Ahead, at kilometer 139, you would find the Los Condores sector from where you would appreciate the majesty of the Maule river that falls at great velocity. At a few meters, you would see the curious and famous Monjes Blancos natural formations which are distinguished by its raising form the surface of a high mountain summit.
Finally, at kilometer 150, you would appreciate the impressive Maule lagoon and at kilometer 172, the international Pehuenche Passage is located connecting us with Argentina.
THE PEJERREY – MONTE OSCURO SECTORS
Located at 35 and 70 km. respectively to the east of Linares.
These zone are located bordered by the Achibueno river, in a road in the center of the Andes mountains and has a view from where you can admire the vegetation of the mountains, the native flora and the crystal waters. All these are important elements to practice activities related to Adventure Tourism.
THE HILLOCKS OF VASQUEZ ( LOMAS DE VASQUEZ)
An Andes zone located at 40 km. east of Longavi and bordered by the Achibueno river from its south part. It is a place to practice adventure tourism activities and enjoying t he surrounding areas full of native flora such as litre, boldo, elm, etc. This is also combined with a variety of bird species such as :tricahue parrots, eagles and mammals like rabbits, quique and sometimes the Chilean puma.
THE BULLILEO RESERVOIR
A reservoir located at 52 km. east of El Parral and has a capacity of 60 million m3 of water. The surroundings are composed by hills covered by exuberant native vegetation.
The Bullileo river offers you the possibility to swim in its transparent waters and also to practice fishing of many salmon species, camping at its banks and do other activities related to adventure tourism.
It is also possible to go to Nevado de Longaví hill ( preferably on horse) where you would find a river and natural spas.
THE ANCOA RESERVOIR
A reservoir located at 39 km. east of the city of Linares, in the center of the Andes mountains where the landscape is a surroundings of native flora. It has superficies of approximately 800 hectares and a capacity of 60 million m3.
VII Region: Folklore
UNIHUE
A small locality situated in the Maule community at 15 km. south of Talca. The Artisans of the area work with clay to make articles that are sold in the Artisan center of the place.
CUREPTO
A painteresque locality situated at 75 km. west of Talca. It is distinguished for its roads and its colonial architecture.
The Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario is located in the Plaza. It has a typical Chilean construction with double adobes. It was built in 1835. Th whole sector was declared a “Typical Zone” in 1990.
The artisan articles are distinguished for being made of raw wool which is used in manufacturing mantas, bed sheets, carpets and socks..
RARI
A small village located at 19 km. north-east of Linares, neighboring Panimávida Spas. This place is famous for making artisan articles in miniature from animal hair or plants fibers with sharp colors which with the individual skills of each craftsman takes a variety of forms, a technique passed on through many generation.
The houses have a typical rural style with gardens and orchards in which you can acquire brujas, damas antiguas, Page markers, flowers, rosaries, earrings, mariposas, etc.
CHANCO
Quiet and painteresque coastal village situated at 45 km. north-east of Cauquenes. The construction of its houses are made of adobes, the roofs of tiles and have long corridors. The village is surrounded by woods, valleys and sea where you can get access to two beaches the Loanco and El Monolito.
The most important attractions are: Plaza de Armas, the Guadalupe del Carmen Muesum, the Parochial Temple of San Ambrosio, constructed with gothic type adobes dating to the beginning of the 20th century and where a festival is held in the honor of the Virgen de la Candelaria on the 2nd of each February when hundreds of followers congregate from various places.
The people are nice and gentle and their activities are mainly working in farms. So, during the summer, when the wheat is harvested, you can watch and enjoy a tradition called la Trilla a Yegua, which conserves its old traditions and customs of the Chilean countryside.
The Federico Albert Forestall Reservation is located only half a kilometer of the village. It has superficies of 145 hectares of woods.
PILEN
A locality situated at 40 km. of Cauquenes. In this village, the people produce artisan pottery either for decoration or daily use. It comes in different simple forms, totally handmade with noisy tools.
The creativity of the craftsmen has expanded it applications to many varieties of objects which are always based on the local traditions. You can either buy it from each craftsman or simply go the market of Cauquenes.
THE TEXTILE OF GOAT HAIR IN THE MAULE REGION
In localities such as Pencahue, Curepto, Quinamávida and Lipimávida, the artisan workers produce textile form goat hair, woven over huso or rueca and manipulated in a rustic machine either horizontally or vertically. It has the privilege to be the representative of the ancestral techniques of the central zone of the valley and which were transmitted form generation to the other. The use of plant colors is another traditional element.
THE LEATHER WORKS IN MAULE REGION
The main production centers are in Talca, Parral and Linares. In the latter there is a locality called Vara Gruesa which is distinguished for the production of stirrups for horse mounting, which are made of oak, walnut, pear or orange tress wood.
The rural man of the Maule region possesses characteristics that clearly identifies him as a countryman. His horse, a vital complement for his existence, has been used in multiple tasks for many centuries which led the artisans of the regions to manufacture tools for such tasks. This artistic manifestation resulted in articles made of cow leather, used for laces and saddles for the horse, cinch, belts that support the saddles and reins: a couple of belts used to control the horse direction.
VII Region: Gastronomy
Among the typical varieties of this region is the ham rolls, prieta sausages, oven tortillas, grape cider and harvest wines, manjar ( milk caramel) and alcayota (egg fruit) cakes, fruits of the region and fish and seafood in cooked and raw varieties.
Among other varieties of typical plates, we can name La Guañaca which is a broth of ham rolls mixed with chili pepper, cilantro, garlic and toasted wheat flour; El Chancho en Piedra which is a sauce made of crushed tomatoes, chili pepper, garlic, onions, parsley, pepper, oil and salt all prepared in a stone pot. We can also name mackerels and fried frogs.
VII Region: Lakes and Lagoons
TORCA LAGOON
It is located at 2 km. north-east of Vichuquén.
The Torca lagoon is situated near the Vichuquén lake. It is declared a Natural Sanctuary which helped it preserve more than 80 species of birds among which we distinguish the black-necked swan.
In the same sector, near the sea, we find the Llico beach formed by the Llico woods which were planted at the beginning of the 20th century with the objective to detain the dunes.
VICHUQUÉN LAKE
It is located at 7 km. from the Vichuquén village. It has an extension of 40 km2 of warm waters and semisalobres, where the main activities are water sports such as sailboat navigation and windsurfing.
The landscape is characterized by surrounding pine woods and at the riviera there are summer houses, camping and picnic areas and hostels and restaurants.
MAULE LAGOON
It is situated in the middle of the Andes mountains at 150 km. east of Talca and at only 22 km. from the frontiers with Argentina (Pehuenche Passage). It has 45 km2 of superficies and an approximate height of 2300 mt above sea level. above sea level. In its blue and cold waters, there is an abundance of trout and salmons, a delight for those who practice sport fishing during the summer period. It is a lagoon with very cold waters and intense blue color surrounded by arid landscape with little green areas.
MACHICURA RESERVOIR
An artificial lake that has superficies of 8 km. and is apt for practicing water sports, fishing and swimming.
It is possible to visit some attraction at the surround areas such as the spas of Quinamávida and Panimávida, Colbún lagoon and Yerbas Buenas. You can realize many activities such as excursion, visiting historical places, buying artisan articles among others.
BULLILEO RESERVOIR
An artificial lake located at 52 km. east of Parral which holds a capacity of 60 million m3 of water. The surroundings are exuberantly green hills. Its waters permit the practice of sport fishing of a variety of salmons.
The Bullileo river offers the possibility of swimming in its transparent waters and also fishing and camping at its riviera. You can also go to the Nevado hill ( preferably on horse) where you would find thermal baths and rivers.
DIGUA RESERVOIR
An artificial lake located at 37 km. south-east of Parral in the middle of the pre-Andes sector. This reservoir is surrounded by abundant native vegetation and offers good fishing. It has superficies of 700 hectares with a capacity of 700 million m3.
ANCOA RESERVOIR
A reservoir located at 39 km. east of Linares. It is surrounded by a variety of native flora in the middle of the Andes mountains and has superficies of approximately 800 hectares and a capacity of 60 million m3.
There are various sectors to practice fishing, promenades, picnic, camping, excursions and natural swimming pools in the La Sombra estuary.
Historical Places and Monuments
VICHUQUÉN
It is located at 112 km. west of Curicó. A painteresque and quiet village dating to the XVI century which was declared a Typical Zone for its unique architectural characteristics.
It houses still conserves its traditional forms with its long corridors, tile roofs and adobe walls. The houses were built molded in the typography of the area. The interesting places to know in the village are the Parochial Church and the Colonial Museum, located in front of the municipality, which has a collection from the old museum, ceramic samples, religious objects and historical documents of the zone and the region. The people are mainly dedicated to working in the agricultural activities and faithfully maintain the traditions and customs of the Chilean countryside.
At the surroundings, there are many attractions to visit such as the Vichuquén lake, the Natural Sanctuary, Torca, Llico, Duao, Lipimáviad and Iloca lagoons.
THE CHURCH OF SAN FRANCISCO DE CURICÓ
It is situated in the San Francisco neighborhood at the feet of the Condell hill. Its construction dates back to the XIX century. It is constructed with bricks and has distinguished arches pointed to its esbalte tower. Inside, the image of the Virgen de la Velilla is conserved. This image was brought to Chile by Don Manuel Díaz Fernández in 1734. It also has the image of San Francisco which as old as the other image of the virgin and both has the particular features of the head and the hands which are carved with small details.
HUILQUILEMU CULTURAL VILLA
It is located at 10 km. west of Talca. The word Huilquilemu means ” Zorzales Woods” in the Araucana language.
It is an antique house with long corridors, coligues roofs, walls of adobe and wooden columns. Its construction dates back to 1850 and it was declared a National Monument in 1986. Th villa has a natural park with exotic and native species, a museum of Religious Art, artisan shops, enoteca, conference rooms, oratorio, Capiutlar and the la Nueva Alianza room, a room where the scene of the Last Dinner is painted in real size which moves every spectator.
THE BRIDGE OVER THE CLARO RIVER
It is located at 217 km. south of Santiago. It is a bridge of 117 m. long and 23 m. high. Its construction dates to 1876 and was declared a Historical Monument in 1991 because of its roman style construction. Its width is 8.90 m. The bridge has seven distinguished arches which gives it its style and makes it unique in the country.
THE O HIGGINS MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS
It is situated on 1 Norte Street at the corner of 2 Oriente Street. The house represents a colonial style architecture which was declared a Historical Monument in 1945 due its historical significance. In it Don bernardo O’Higgins signed the Independence Act of the country on the 2nd of February 1818. It has a collection of national and foreign painters. It also has some archeological pieces of the pre-Colombian ear, pieces horadadas and arrows which were found in Vilches. It also has samples of religious art, a collections of antique money and furniture of the XVIII century.
HUENCHULLAMÍ
It is located at 95 km. north-east of Talca and 25 km. south-west of Curepto. Its old Chapel, which surrounded by an indigenous cemetery, dates back to 1850 when it was constructed by the indigenous people of living in the area.
YERBAS BUENAS
This old and painteresque village is located at 112 km. north of Linares and is distinguished by typical houses of colonial style with broad corridors. In this place occurred the “Sorpresa de Yerbas Buenas”, a historical event that occurred on the 27th of April 1813. The sector surrounding the Plaza de Armas was declared a Typical Zone in 1987 due to the pure maintenance of the architectural characteristics of its houses dating to the first quarter of the XIX century. It has a library-Museum called ” Casa de Pareja” which has a collection of arms of the XVIII century, antique objects, historical documents, and a small public library. It was declared a Historical Monument in 1984.
PAROCHIAL TEMPLE OF NIÑO JESÚS DE VILLA ALEGRE
It is located in the Villa Alegre community at 20 km. north of Linares. This temple was constructed around 1890. In it are the rests of Abate Juan Ignacio Molina. It was declared a National Monument in 1979.
THE PAROCHIAL TEMPLE OF NIRIVILO
It is located at 43 km. west of San Javier. The temple dates back to 1834 and is the oldest in the province of Linares. In it are the rests of the direct family of Don Bernardo O’Higgins. It was declared a National Monument in 1984 due to its architectural characteristics.
Parks and National Reservations
“LAGUNA TORCA” NATIONAL RESERVATION
It is located at 108 km. west of Curicó, 70 of which are asphalt paved.
It has superficies of 604 hectares and an altitude of 150 to 269 m. Above sea level.
The flora is formed by diverse species depending on the different sectors. Among the vegetation of the rivers of the lagoon there coexists the Bateo and Totora and water species such as la lengua de agua, salt marsh and la hierba del sapo, . The Llico woods sector there are many exotic species of trees such as insigne pine, maritimo pine, aromao Australian and a big variety of eucalyptus in addition other herbs and bushes. They serve to detain the advancing of sands. The Cerillos Island is covered with species trees such as peumo and litre.
The fauna has a big visible group of birds of more than 90 species, mainly distinguished by the Black-necked swan, the coscoroba swan and the Seven colors swan. Among the mammals, the coipo, fox and quique are present.
The administration is located at 3 km. of the Llico village. There is an environmental information office and picnic sites.
THE “RADAL 7 TAZAS” NATIONAL RESERVATION
It is located at the pre-Andes at an altitude that goes between 600 and 2156 m. Above sea level and at 45 km. south-east of Molina. The access is through unpaved road and ripio.
The reservation has superficies of 5147 hectares which is administered by the CONAF which has made some promenade paths, picnic areas and a center for visitors.
The sector stands out for its natural beauty and for the dense native vegetation of types such as beech mañío, laurel, oak, coigue, cypress, radal, terebinth shrub among others. It also has the famous waterfalls formed form the Claro river such as the 7 Tazas which is a geological formation formed by the current of the river which has drilled through the rocks. At a nearby site we could find the Velo de la Novia waterfalls which falls from 50 m and the Salto de la Leona waterfalls which has comes down form 9 m. In the Radal sector there is the Parque Inglés.
In the fauna of the place we can find tricahue parrot correntino duck eaglet,ring dove and foxes, pumas and skunk.
“ALTOS DEL LIRCAY” PROTECTED AREA
it is located at 44 km. east of San Clemente. It is an Andes’ valley located between the Claro and Lircay rivers. Further to the interior, there is the Picazo hill (2320 m.), the Tres Cuernos (1950 m.) and Peine hill (2300 m.)
The protected area covers superficies of 16,884 hectares and has an average height of 1200 m. above sea level. Its microclimate permits the existence of flora composed of : radal,hazel, oak,coigue, lingue,quillai and peumo.
It is characterized by the presence of rivers, estuaries, varied landscapes, dense vegetation, natural lagoons and the conditions the it offers to practice many adventure tourism activities.
We would suggest a visit to the Gil de Vilches park where you can observe the “Tacit Stones”, a testimony of an ancient culture that lived in the zone, the “El Enladrillado” and “Valle de Venado” sectors, which can be accessed on foot or horse where you would discover places of extraordinary beauty. From there, you can get to the Decabezado Grande and Decabezado Chico Volcanoes.
For lodging and food, there is a good hostel, shacks and camping zones in Vilches. It is a good area to practice excursions, picnic, camping, promenades, and adventure tourism activities.
“FEDERICO ALBERT” NATIONAL RESERVATION
It is located at half a kilometer of Chanco. This wild nature heritage covers superficies of 145 hectares of woods mainly composed of eucalyptus, pine trees, cipreses, alcornoques and aromos. The reservation is of a great scientific interest because it is the result of the plantation made at the end of the 19th century by the German doctor Federico Albert. It was done in order to detain the advance of the dunes, which were covering extensive agricultural land, which threatened to bury the village.
It has a visitors center administered by the park guards of the CONAF. Th center has maquetas and legends related to the park. It has paths for excursions, children playground and picnic and camping zones.
“LOS BELLOTOS DEL MELADO” NATIONAL RESERVATION
It is located at the pre-Andes sector in the Linares province. It can be accessed through an unpaved and ripio road form the city of Linares, which leads to the Melado Tunnel passing by the Ancoa and Roblería reservoirs. The distance is approximately 55 km.
The flora is distinguish by the south acorn, an endangered species that does not exist in any other wild areas protected by the Country. Moreover, there are species like maulino oak, oak, coigüe, mountain cypress ,peumo, litre, quillai and hazel.
The fauna has an abundant collection of birds such as the black woodpecker, pitío, tricahue parrots, eagle,parrots,tyrant flycatcher, parakeet, chimango and chercá.
The administration is found at the entrance of the area. It does not have any equipment for picnic or camping.
“LOS RUILES” NATIONAL RESERVATION
It is located at 29 km. south-east of Cauquenes on the road between Cauquenes and Chanco through an asphalt route. It covers superficies of 45 hectares and an altitude between 275 and 400 m. above sea level. Its main objective is to protects beech, a species in extension, which grows naturally in small coastal sectors in this region in the world. In addition to that, the area possesses native woods rich in tree species such as coigüHualo,cinnamon, pitao,hazel, copihue, fiunque, pelú,tineo and taique.
It has picnic areas situated in perfect harmony with nature, paths for promenades and for observation of the great variety of existing native flora.
“LOS QUEULES” NATIONAL RESERVATION
It is located at 71 km. west of Cauquenes. The first 50 km. are asphalt until you reach Curanipe. The next 20 km. are unpaved until you reach the Tregualemu sector. It has superficies of 147.3 hectares and an altitude of 180 m. above sea level.
The flora of the area is greatly diversified. All the superficies are covered by woods and trees of big size such as Queule and el Pitao, both classified as species in extension. There are also hualo, bollén, peumo, litre,laurel, huillipatagua, copihue
As far as the fauna is concerned, the birds has a major presence which has species such as pitío, partridge,eaglet, kestrel, rough-legged hawk, thrush, red-breasted singing bird, chercán, turtledove,finch and Chilean crested tyrant flycatcher.
It has a guard post located at the entrance to the area. It does not have equipment for picnic.
VII Region: Beaches
LLICO
A small coastal caleta located to the south of Vichuquén lake, at the outlet of the river with the same name. Its main activity is artisan fishing and at the surroundings you can visit the Vichuquén and Troca lakes, the village of Vichuquén and the neighboring beaches such as Duao, Lipimávida and Iloca.
ILOCA
A coastal resort located at 127 km. west of Curicó. It is the ideal combination of the countryside, hills, rivers and beaches. The latter is composed by various kilometers of fine sand of dark gray color. The El Peñon and La Pesca areas are ideal for fishing. There are many lodging places and restaurants.
In the surrounding areas it is possible to realize activities such as promenades and excursions at the neighboring beaches of Caleta Duao and also further to the north, following the road along the seaside until you reach Lipimávida where there are other beaches and artisan shops of article s made of wool and figures made of seashells.
CALETA DUAO
It is located at 8 km. north of Iloca through the seaside road. The caleta is distinguished by an abundance of fish and seafood which are the basis of the local gastronomy. It delights whoever visits it.
In this caltea, you can practice many activities such as excursions towards neighboring localities such as Iloca and Lipimáviad which are situated at the south and north respectively. You can also go to Vichuquén which is an old village with colonial style architecture, the Vichuquén lake which offers excellent conditions for water sports and sport fishing.
CONSTITUCIÓN
A resort that is located at 113 km. south-west of Talca, at the outlet of the river Maule. The beaches of this resort have fine and grayish sands, which are ideal for asoleamiento, bathing, seaside games and fishing.
It is famous for its impressive natural rocky formations such as: “La piedra de la iglesia”, “El arco de los enamorados”, “Las Termópilas” and “Calabocillo”.
It´s gifted with tourist services and has entertaining and interesting promenades in boats with bar service on board.
In the month of February of every year, the traditional Maulina Week is held, an event that includes recreational, sport and artistic activities.
CHANCO
A quiet and painteresque coastal village situated at 45 km. north-east of Cauquenes.
The distinguished attractions of the village are: the Plaza de Armas, the Gaudalupe del Carmen Museum, the Parochial Temple of San Ambrosio and the colonial style houses with spacey corridors.
The village is surrounded by woods, valleys, camping sites and sea. There are two beaches, both apt for seaside fishing. The Loanco beach is situated at the extreme north of the community and has rocky formations form which you can watch big-size sea wolves. To get to the El Monolito beach you could go through the Federico Alberto Reservation which is located only half a kilometer of the village.
PELLUHUE
A resort located at 42 km. west of Cauquenes, which has a paved road. Its extended beaches are surrounded by hills and woods and has fine black sands. It is an ideal place for sea and sun bathing and seaside fishing. Among its attractions we would like to mention the Mariscadero, the Manzano river and the Punta Roca Amarilla and Lovelhuan beaches.
There are lodging and food services.
CURANIPE
A coastal resort located at 49 km. west of Cauquenes. It has attractive beaches interrupted by big and natural rocky formations. The beaches are excellent for surfing and body board activities.
The Chovellén river and the beaches located further to the south provide special attractions areas such as Tregualemu and Buchhupuero, very romantic places for couples.
There are lodging and food services.
VII Region: Rivers and Waterfalls
“RADAL 7 TAZAS” NATIONAL RESERVATION
Located in the pre-Andes at a height that goes between 600 to 2.156 m. above sea level and at 45 km south-east of Molina. Access is through unpaved and gravel road.
The sector stand out for its natural beauty of both the vegetation species and for its waterfalls formed by the Claro river. The 7 Tazas is an example of this geological formation caused by the river’s current which pierced through the rocks and giving birth to this unique beauty. Another example is Velo de la Novia, a 50-meter high waterfall, and also El Salto de la Leona which is nearby. 9 km. towards the east of a sector called El Radal, you will reach El Parque Inglés ( The English Park)
VII Region: Thermal Bath
QUINAMÁVIDA SPAS
A modern spa complex located at 16 km. east of Linares and at a height of 180 m. above sea level. It has a varied and good facilities surrounded by gardens and by the nearby old woods and hills.
Its waters possess a variety of medicinal properties which come out at an average temperature of 24º C. These come out as antibiotics. The cranio therapy applications are done by bathing in thermal waters ( bath or Jacuzzi), mud baths and steam baths.
Recommended for rheumatic illnesses, neurosis, kidney and skin illnesses. At the surrounding areas, one could visit the village of Rari, famous for its artisan articles made of mane, the village of Yerbas Buenas and the Colbún lake. Some of the available activities of the place are promenades on horse back, excursions and entertainment in the spa center like barbecue in open air, games, and entertainment for all ages.
PANIMÁVIDA SPAS
A traditional sap situated at 23 km. east of Linares at a height of 175 m. above sea level.
Its waters has a variety of medicinal properties and come out at an average temperature of 32º C. The properties can be considered as antibiotics, hypothermic, sulfur and calcium rich which are recommended for gallstone and kidney sand, cystitis, articulatory illnesses, rheumatism, gastrointestinal and hepatitis, cardiovascular regulation, circulatory and respiratory regulations.
The chrono-therapy applications can be realized by taking baths in spa waters, sub-aquatic massages, mud and steam baths and water to drink.
At the surrounding areas, one could visit the village of Rari, famous for its artisan articles made of mane, the village of Yerbas Buenas and the Colbún lake. You can go fishing, on excursions, sports, distractions in the same spa center and religious services.
CATILLO SPAS
A spa center located at 25 km. south-east of Parral at a height of 320 m. above sea level where you can watch the beauty of the vegetation the Andes landscape.
Its waters posses medicinal properties at an approximate temperature of 35º C. It has antibiotic element sulfates, chloride, bicarbonates and sodium and is recommended for the treatment of rheumatism and arthritis, the digestive system ( Santa Luisa and Magnesium fountain) and gallstones or kidney sand (El Monte fountain). Its crani-theraputical cranio-therapy application can be realized by taking baths in thermal waters.
Many activities can be practiced in this sector such as the observation of the Flora and Fauna, fishing, excursion and entertainment in the spa center.
Adventure Tourism
LOS QUEÑES
It is located at 55 km. east of Curicó and can be reached through ripio road. It is a pre-Andes place near the uniting of the Claro and Teno rivers. It has sectors apt of trekking, hiking, rafting and cavalcades through the “Ruta de los Arrieros” which leads you towards the baths of san Pedro and the Teno lake.
LLICO
A small coastal caleta located at the north side of the Vichuquén lake at the outlet of the river with the same name. Its main activities are artisan fishing, ideal promenades, excursions and windsurfing.
THE “RADAL 7 TAZAS” NATIONAL RESERVATION
It is located in the pre-Andes sector at an altitude ranging between 600 to 2156 m. above sea level and is situated at 45 km. south-east of Molina. The access road is unpaved and ripio.
The reservation, 7645 hectares, is administered by CONAF which has made promenades paths, picnic areas and a visitors center.
The sector is stands out for its natural beauty due to the dense vegetation native species that draws you attention with its legendary woods and valleys located at different points of the place. It is also of great interest to those who practice kayaking who launch themselves in the natural pools full of very old basalt rocks thus challenging the waterfalls of the Claro river. These rocks are very hard and gave fame to the Siete Tazas waterfalls.
At the surroundings, there are hills ideal for climbing, trekking or cavalcades and mountainbike, discovering or swimming the Velo de la Novia and Salto de la Leona cascades or even surrounding oneself with the native woods animated by the fauna of the place such as: : tricahue parrot, correntino duck, eaglet, ring dove and foxes zorros, pumas and skunks.
THE “ALTOS DEL LIRCAY” PROTECTED AREA
It is located at 44 km. east of San Clemente and at 65 km. from Talca, 40 km. of which are paved and 20 are ripio. This pre-Andes valley is located between the Claro and Lircay rivers. Further towards the interior, you would find the El Picazo hill (2320m.), Tres Cuernos hill ( 1950 M.) and the Peine hill (2200 m.) all of which are ideal for climbing.
The protected area covers superficies of 16.884 hectares and has an average altitude of 1200 m. above sea level. It microclimate permits the existence of flora composed by radal, hazel, oak, coigue, lingue, quillai and peumo and of the fauna tricahue parrot, parakeet, quail , turtledove, thrush, and the black woodpecker. It is characterized by the presence of rivers, estuaries, ravines and valleys surrounded by dense vegetation, natural lakes and conditions that are ideal for adventure tourism.
We recommend a visit to the Gil de Vilches park where you could observe the “Piedras Tacitas” which are a testimony of an ancient culture that lived in the zone.
For adventure lovers, we recommend a visit to the “El Enadrillad” and the “Valle de Venado” sectors which can be accessed on foot or horse and where you would discover place of extraordinary beauty. From there, you can also go to the Decabezado Grande and Descabezado Chico volcanoes.
THE MAULE LAGOON
It is located in the middle of the Andes at 150 km. east of Talca and at only 22 km. form the frontiers with Argentina ( Pehuenche Passage). The access road is paved until you reach the Armerillo sector ( 75 km.). The rest of the road is ripio and in good condition until the La Mina Customs sector ( approx. 100 km.). The resting 50 kilometers are narrow with slopes where transit is suspended between the months of April and December due to the rain and snow.
The lagoon has superficies of 45 km2. And an altitude of 2300 m. above sea level. In its blue and cold waters, there is abundant quantities of trout and salmons which are a delight to those who practice sport fishing during the summer season. Moreover, it has sectors apt for trekking, mountain activities and off road activities.
THE MELADO SECTOR
It can be accessed through an unpaved road at 52 km. east of Linares. It is located in the middle of the pre-Andes area in the Ancoa Valley. Th place is surrounded by native woods which is ideal to enjoy the wilderness. The activities that can be realized are trekking, hiking, canoeing, mountainbike, mountain activities, cavalcades and off road. You can go o excursions that lead to the origin of the Ancoa, Portezuelo and El Melado rivers.
THE PEJERREY – MONTE OSCURO SECTORS
Located at 35 and 70 km. respectively to the east of Linares.
These zone are located bordered by the Achibueno river, in a road in the center of the Andes mountains and has a view from where you can admire the vegetation of the mountains, the native flora and the crystal waters. All these are important elements to practice activities related to Adventure Tourism, trekking, cavalcades, mountainbike, rafting and canoeing .
THE HILLOCKS OF VASQUEZ ( LOMAS DE VASQUEZ)
An Andes zone located at 40 km. east of Longavi and bordered by the Achibueno river from its south part. It is a place to practice adventure tourism activities and enjoying t he surrounding areas full of native flora such as litre, boldo, elms, etc. This is also combined with a variety of bird species such as : tricahue parrot, eagles and mammals such as rabbits, quique and sometimes the Chilean puma .
THE BULLILEO RESERVOIR
A reservoir located at 52 km. east of El Parral and has a capacity of 60 million m3 of water. The surroundings are composed by hills covered by exuberant native vegetation.
The Bullileo river offers you the possibility to swim in its transparent waters and also to practice fishing of many salmon species, camping at its banks and do other activities related to adventure tourism.
It is also possible to go to Nevado de Longaví hill ( preferably on horse) where you would find a river and natural spas.
THE ANCOA RESERVOIR
A reservoir located at 39 km. east of the city of Linares, in the center of the Andes mountains where the landscape is a surroundings of native flora. It has superficies of approximately 800 hectares and a capacity of 60 million m3.( still as a the project period)
There are good possibilities to practice trekking, hiking, mountain activities and off road activities.
VII Region: Archeology
GIL DE VILCHES PARK
Situated in the ” Alto del Lircay” National Reservation ( at 67 km. east of Talca). In this place, the ” Piedras de las Tacitas” ( tacit stones) are found, evidence of an ancient culture that inhibited the sector.
