Cazú Zegers and the inspiration behind Casa Río Experience: a dream born in the Andean Araucanía.

The story of Casa Río Experience is deeply connected to architect Cazú Zegers, a visionary of the territory and a founding partner of the project. Her bond with the Andean Araucanía began in 2013, following a serious accident while backcountry skiing. The recovery was tough, but her passion for the mountains was stronger. As soon as she could ski again, she decided to climb the Lonquimay volcano with her friend and guide Jim, who had accompanied her on the day of the accident.

Cazú Zegers

During that trip, upon arriving at the newly opened Corralco Hotel, the five volcanoes of northern Andean Araucanía rose majestically above a green sea. It was a revealing image that stayed forever in her heart and awakened a deep desire to contribute to the development of this unique territory without losing its essence. On that same trip, she met Juan Pablo Vergara, then head of guides, and Carolina Arriaga, the hotel manager. A friendship was born that endured over time and later became key to the birth of Casa Río.

Cazú returned many times to the area, driven by a commitment to promote sustainable tourism that would empower local communities. From that drive came the Pehuenche Route, a network of indigenous ventures focused on skiing and culture, with the inspiring motto: "Ski 5 volcanoes in 7 days." Although the project faced challenges that prevented its continuation, it laid important foundations—such as the Pataschoike viewpoint, now considered one of Chile’s top five.

Life went on, and during new visits with skiers and randonée lovers, Cazú tested her idea: to travel five volcanoes in seven days. On one of those occasions, she stayed at Casa Río and was captivated by the experience by the river. When the opportunity arose to purchase it, she didn’t hesitate. Together with Carolina and Juan Pablo, she decided to found Casa Río Experience, a gateway to the Andean Araucanía and the spirit of the Pehuenche Route.

Today, Casa Río Experience is not just a place to stay: it is a home built with love, where the hosts do what they love most—welcoming, sharing, and offering hospitality—so that every visitor lives an authentic experience in harmony with nature and local culture.