Vik Retreats | Gwen Books

Hard to believe it was merely a week ago that I visited the art filled avant-garde VINA VIK spa retreat in Millahue, Chile. As my clients are painfully aware, I am a passionate proponent of The Arrival…we expect our guests to be greeted by management on arrival and award multiple stars for grand gestures of hospitality.If the hotel sends a car to the airport for my arrival, I love receiving a cool fragrant towel, chilled drinks and snacks for the drive.

Vina Vik executes the guest arrival with one of my best-loved gestures: a chilled cocktail or juice beverage reflecting the produce of the local area. The message bestowed upon a traveler – you have arrived and we welcome you to our home. Simple, yes; however, I believe it sets the stage for the guest stay…leave your cares behind, we are here to enhance your Journey.

Vina Vik Arrival…if you view the night sky from the terrace, the millions of stars in the southern sky match the Vina Vik sense of style and hospitality.

Vina Vik Welcome Cocktail

There are a few enchanting locations which just must be visited… a trek to Uruguay in March & April – is the perfect time to enjoy.

Travel Tale Repeat the Mantra

ARRIVAL: Transfer to Estancia Vik José Ignacio.
MORNING: Take part in a bike tour of the Quartz Field. Keep an eye out for Estancia Vik’s Ñandú, an ostrich native to South America.
LUNCH: Indulge in a picnic lunch in the open Quartz Field while enjoying views of Laguna José Ignacio, Faro José Ignacio and the Atlantic Ocean.
AFTERNOON: Enjoy exploring the wild nature during a canoe ride along the Laguna José Ignacio, where fish and flamingos are often seen in their natural habitat.
SUNSET: Julian Trotte, pastry chef for Vik Retreats, will lead guests in a hands-on baking workshop.
DINNER: Dinner at Estancia Vik.
LATE NIGHT: Head to the South Garden for star gazing and a late-night swim in the pool.BREAKFAST: Enjoy breakfast at your leisure.
MORNING: Visit the Village of Faro  José Ignacio by foot or bike. Make a stop at the stunning light house, explore the coast during a half-hour walk around the peninsula or unwind enjoying a yoga class at the Yoga Shack. Organic cooking class and Spanish lesson at  La Susana beach club & restaurant.
LUNCH: Lunch will be served at  La Susana following the cooking class.
AFTERNOON: Take part in your choice of water sports, including water skiing, surfing, kite surfing or paddle boarding.
SUNSET: A natural juices workshop will be offered at Playa Vik, while enjoying one of the best sunsets on the planet. Relax and take in the spectacular sunset or join us for a sunset horseback ride at Estancia Vik.
DINNER: Dinner at a local José Ignacio restaurant.BREAKFAST: At your leisure.
MORNING: Polo lessons at Estancia Vik will be offered to players at every level, followed by a guided visit of the colonial village of Garzon.
LUNCH: Enjoy lunch at your leisure.
AFTERNOON: One of Vik Retreat’s featured artists will offer a workshop for both children and adults where you will learn about the properties’ extensive art collection and participate in a project of your own. The afternoon will also include paintballing and a VIK wine tasting at Estancia Vik.
DINNER: Experience a traditional Uruguayan Asado BBQ at Estancia Vik.

BREAKFAST: At your leisure.
MORNING: A community service opportunity will be offered, which will involve visiting one of the local organizations supporting Uruguay’s children in need.
LUNCH: Visit the Atchugarry Foundation and Pablo Atchugarry’s artist atelier. Guests will also be free to explore  the towns of Manantiales and La Barra, followed by lunch at a local restaurant.
AFTERNOON: Horseback, mountain bike or drive along the farm roads of Estancia Vik to O33 to discover the olive oil production process and enjoy an olive oil tasting. Adults indulge in a one-hour massage treatment at Estancia Vik at your convenience.
EVENING: Prepare gnocchi and other Vik Retreats specialties alongside Head Chef Marcelo Betancourt.
DINNER: Enjoy the dinner you have prepared and practice Spanish with our staff.