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Hotel Puerta del Sol

Within the Valle Nevado ski resort the Hotel Puerta del Sol is considered to be the “mid-range-level” hotel. This is to say that it is not the best and not the simplest.

This hotel is designed for people who want a decent and comfortable place to stay, but with none of the other luxury add-ons. Rooms are practical. Those facing north have small, exterior terraces with views down the valley and to the tops of the Andes.

The hotel forms the northern side of the main, central Valle Nevado complex and from the lobby area there is direct access to the small, outdoor pool, kid’s zone, internet centre, bar and restaurant, as well as a “hop” to the piste.

About
Hotel Puerta del Sol offers 121 guest rooms in the tall building that forms the northern side of the Valle Nevado central complex.

The idea behind Puerta de Sol is for Valle Nevado to be able to offer three levels and styles of hotels for different budgets and tastes. Puerta del Sol “sits in the middle” of the higher-end hotel and the lower-end hotel.

Rooms in this hotel are practical, not extravagant, and “do their job” so to speak. If your primary reason to stay at Valle Nevado is to ski then Puerta del Sol is fine, however, if you want a more spacious and comfortable room at night you need the other hotel called Hotel Valle Nevado.

Ski Programs
Within the Puerta del Sol Ski Week programs the following is included:
Half Board: (dinner on check-in day, to breakfast on check-out day).
Ski Lift Pass: Valid to the day BEFORE check out, then an extra day pass will be issued for the final day if you check-out before 10:00hrs, but wish to ski that day.
Fitness Centre: Access to the Spa and Fitness centre, but massage is at an additional cost.
Ski Storage
WiFi

Hotel Valle Nevado

The Valle Nevado Ski resort comprises three, different hotels, each offering a varied level of comfort and facilities for ski guests. The idea behind this is to offer accommodation for people with different demands and available budgets.

Hotel Valle Nevado is categorised as the best of the three hotel options.

The hotel predominately occupies a “wing” of the overall resort positioned in such a way whereby the northern-side rooms face the ski slopes and the southern side rooms look down to the almost vertical-drop valley below. The rooms have small balconies, and it is easy to ski directly onto the piste from the hotel lobby area.

It offers 51 guest rooms, including suite rooms and access to the French restaurant called La Fourchette. Other hotel facilities include Wi-Fi, a spa, fitness centre, and bar. There is also an exterior, heated, circular pool.

Ski Programs include:
Half board accommodation programs (breakfast and dinner but beverages are charged as extras).
Ski Tickets.
Access to the Fitness and Spa centre (massage service extra).
Ski Storage.

About
Hotel Valle Nevado is rated as a 5-star ski hotel within the overall Valle Nevado ski centre complex.

The rooms are of a decent level and reasonably spacious, and this hotel, out of the three at the complex, is definitely the better one.

Hotel Portillo

This hotel is part of both Chilean, and skiing history. Chile skiing hotel Portillo is the place where the skiing World Cup was first discussed prior to it starting. It was also the first ski resort in Chile.

The hotel comprises one, elongated block, coloured yellow on its exterior, situated at the base of the mountain bowl that surrounds the building. It is also close to an Andean Lake (lago del Inca), the Chilean border with Argentina and at the top of numerous hair-pin bends in the road leading down the valley.

Family Gatherings

The hotel is famous for being a “South American Family Winter Resort Hotel” because the atmosphere is cosy and familiar, and families like to return each year to meet up with friends.

One great benefit of the hotel is that it offers ski in and ski out direct to the pistes and lift network.

Also, on offer here is unlimited access to the heated pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness room, gymnasium, yoga, cinema, games room, discotheque, piano bar and use of the ski and boot check service.

About

Hotel Portillo offers 123 guest rooms and, depending on which side of the hotel the room is, the view will be either to the Inca Lake or down the valley.
The main hotel building has six floors dedicated to guest rooms, a main dining room, small cinema room, bar and exterior hot tub as well as outdoor, heated pool.

Chile Skiing Hotel Portillo Other Guest Units

In addition to the principal hotel there are some other guest accommodation units nearby. For example, there are eight chalets that can accommodate between 4 to 8 people, plus the Inca Lodge which is an option for those seeking simple-level accommodation. Rooms in the Inca Lodge offer up to 4 guests, which can be shared with other guests not part of the same group. Finally, there is the Octagon lodge, a two-storey, octagon-shaped building, which is ideal for small groups.

The hotel has a variety of rooms that can accommodate solo travellers, friends, or families. With room options that can house up to six guests, hotel rooms are the preferred option for families with small children and senior skiers, thanks to the ease of access to all the hotel facilities and the slopes.

Hotel Portillo ski-weeks and mini-weeks, include a lift ticket for the week, four daily meals in the hotel dining room, and access to all hotel facilities and activities. The Hotel rooms are equipped with complimentary high-speed WIFI, telephone, minibar, safe, toiletries, and a hair dryer. There are no televisions in the guestrooms at Ski Portillo, which encourages guests to disconnect and enjoy everything that Portillo offers.

Chile Skiing Hotel Portillo Ski Programs

Ski Week 7 Nights at Portillo
Booking a full ski week is considered the best way to enjoy all the Portillo has to offer. The ski week operates a check in on a Saturday and check out the following Saturday.

All Ski weeks include:
4 daily meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner).
Unlimited access to the heated pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness room, gymnasium, yoga, cinema, games room, discotheque, piano bar and use of the ski and boot check service.
Activities for children, teens, and adults.
Complimentary day care for children ages four to seven.

Mini Week of 3 or 4 Nights at Portillo
If you do not have the time for a full ski week, then Portillo offers a “mini ski week” of 3 or 4 nights.

Mini Week packages include 3 or 4 nights of lodging, unlimited lift access, four daily meals and access to all hotel facilities and activities.

The 3-night mini week requires a check in on a Wednesday and check out the following Saturday, or 4 Nights requires a check in on a Saturday and check out the following Wednesday.

All mini weeks include:
4 daily meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner).
Unlimited access to the heated pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness room, gymnasium, yoga, cinema, games room, discotheque, piano bar and use of the ski and boot check service.
Activities for children, teens, and adults.
Complimentary day care for children ages four to seven.

Transfer to and from Portillo
The drive from Santiago to Portillo passes through an area including vineyards, fruit groves, the Aconcagua River, and the breath-taking Andes in the background. The two-hour trip highlights the beauty of the Chilean Central Valley as well as the stunning mountains.

Transfer Schedules
Should the times below not work for you, ExperienceChile.Org can arrange private transfers at a time to suit you.

One-way from Santiago Airport to Portillo
Departures at: 09:00hrs, 12:00hrs and 16:00hrs

One-Way from Santiago Hotels
Pick-up around 09:00hrs

One Way from Portillo to Santiago Airport
Departures at: 12:00hrs and 15:00hrs

One Way from Portillo to Santiago Hotels
Departures at 15:00hrs

Hotel Posada Farellones

The Chile Ski Hotel Posada Farellones is over 80 years old and firmly established as part of Chilean folklore history. It is particularly noted for being a rustic, small, Swiss style hotel built from natural wood and stone, which combines to create an immediate cosy environment.

The good things about Chile Ski Hotel La Posada Farellones is that it is centrally heated and offers a large communal living room with open fireplace, table games, play station, and a satellite t.v.. In addition, there is a restaurant, ski room with boot drying facilities and daily transfers to La Parva and El Colorado ski centres. There is also a large, indoor jacuzzi for guests.

Lunch is served in the hotel restaurant between 13-17hrs and supper is from 20:00hrs.

About

The La Posada Hotel of Farellones is a firmly established part of Chilean skiing history. It was one of the first hotels to be established in a ski centre over 80 years ago. At the time it was built along the lines of a “Swiss style” mountain lodge hotel maid from wood and stone with cosy rooms.

Today the original style is still evident, however, rooms have been upgraded as have other parts of the hotel to keep it more in trend with today’s guests’ demands.

Nueva La Parva Apartments

La Parva, as has been described in the Ski Resort Profile, is mainly a residential village whereupon there are no hotels – yet. Therefore, for visiting skiers who wish to stay overnight there is only the option of self-catering apartments. One particular apartment building set up for ski weeks is the Nueva La Parva.

The Chile skiing Nueva La Parva apartment building contains two categories of apartment. One is defined as Standard and the other is allocated the definition of Superior.

In total there are 38 apartments offering a total of 250 beds.

About

The actual Nueva La Parva building is not new and the apartments within offer simple and practical apartments. Each one offering a small kitchenette, lounge with large window opening on to a small terrace. In addition, there is also an outdoor heated communal swimming pool.
For those who stay at Nueva La Parva there is also daily maid service for cleaning and towel change as well as a babysitter service if required.
The location of the apartment block is reasonably close to the Manzanito ski piste and lifts for easy skiing access.
Ski guests can rent ski gear locally as well as book ski lessons and lift tickets.
Check-in is from 17:00hrs.
Check-out is before 12:00hrs (midday).

Hotel Monteverde

Located on the lake-side slopes of the Villarrica Volcano, Ski Pucon Hotel Monteverde offers a small bed and breakfast hotel; spacious, good quality self-catering cabins, and modern self-catering apartments.

Apart from the lovely views down to the lake, Monteverde is an ideal place for those wishing to create their own meals when back from a day at the Pucon ski centre.

About Ski Pucon Hotel Monteverde

Monteverde started with a couple of Scandinavian-style and quality cabins back in the early 1990’s and has grown to offer many more cabins, a small bed and breakfast hotel and a modern apartment building. All placed in such a way whereby there is a lot of space in-between each facility.

In addition, there is a games room, an outdoor hot tub and adjacent sauna and great views down to the lake.

There is also an outdoor pool, but this would not be in use during the ski season.

Hotel Antumalal

The Ski Pucon Hotel Antumalal is a “retro hotel” that has been modernised, but at the same time has managed to keep its 1960’s “James Bond” feel. It is a unique place where many known celebrities have stayed, including HRH The Queen Elizabeth, when she visited Chile in the late 1960’s.

The hotel is position in a quiet area, on its own peninsula, with views to the lake. It is an ideal base from which to venture out and up to the Pucon ski centre on the side of Villarrica Volcano, which is not far away.

About Ski Pucon Hotel Antumalal

From the moment you walk into the hotel foyer and glance to the right, the style of furniture, and overall look, create an impression that you have walked right into the sixties period.

The sixties look, together with the large, angled floor to ceiling windows at the end of the sitting room, and exterior stonework on a robust-looking building also combine to give the feeling that this could easily be a James Bond 1960’s movie set - the HQ of Spectre, for example. For those who love this kind of nostalgia, this “Retro” hotel should fit the bill.

In the winter months the large log fires burn brightly providing, not only warmth, but creating a very welcoming and cosy atmosphere.

The bar is a great place for after ski cocktails and the restaurant serves high level cuisine as well as provides a fine view to Villarrica Lake.
Antumalal offers only a few guest rooms, 12 in fact, and this enables it to maintain a familiar, family style.

Hotel Vira Vira

The Ski Puocn Hotel Vira Vira is one of the best lodge hotels in Chile, let alone Pucon. It is for high-end clients, those who want and appreciate real luxury rooms and overall facilities and who have the budget to enjoy such services.

During the winter months Vira Vira offers some exclusive ski-related excursions including helicopter transport to snowy mountain peaks, and other remote areas as well as, for example, snowshoe walking through snow-laden forests.

The Vira Vira lodge is an up-market, country lodge-style property set within its own 22-hectare estate, beside the Liucura River.

Accommodation is split between 12, luxury, split-level villas, with separate living room with river frontage; 6 suites and a 5-bedroom house for up to 10 guests.

All rooms are tastefully decorated with well-chosen objects, colour selection, wall hangings, rugs and textured fabrics. Tall, picture windows, open views to the natural, outside world.

About Ski Pucon Hotel Vira Vira

The guest rooms at Vira Vira are all decorated, furnished, and styled in a way that exudes quality and style. Such luxury is either expected by guests who have lives of the same level or can be a new experience for those who wish to be “pampered” for a while. Either way, a few nights here will be a fine reward and experience from the usual life that most people endure.

The overall emphasis is one of exclusivity. Guest rooms exude quality, food is gourmet, excursions are varied and designed in such a way to enable guests to appreciate the natural surroundings and culture.

Hotel Corralco Ski Lodge

The hotel Corralco ski lodge is currently the only hotel situated at the Corralco ski centre. One of the wonderful aspects to this hotel is that it is almost surrounded by an Araucaria forest. These unique trees have hard, triangular evergreen leaves packed closely together around each branch. The nickname of this tree is “monkey puzzle” tree, because it is the only tree a monkey cannot climb. Compared to “traditional” trees the appearance of an Araucaria tree is “exotic” and more so when there is a forest of them. Therefore, where Hotel Corralco is located, amid these trees, makes for yet another new experience for people staying here.

The hotel offers 54 guest rooms at good level along with good facilities such as indoor pool, spa and restaurant.

In addition, it is possible to ski out from the hotel and onto the ski lift network.

About Hotel Corralco Ski Lodge

The Hotel Corralco, apart from being in an Araucaria forest, is located within the Malalcahuello National Reserve – an area of outstanding natural beauty, and about half way up the Lonquimay Volcano. The snow-covered area near the summit of the volcano cone is serviced by a ski lift and from here there is access to the ski area on the southern side of the volcano back down to the hotel.

The hotel offers 54 guest rooms, all reasonably spacious, furnished and decorated to a good level. Complementing the guest rooms is a decent indoor swimming pool and spa, restaurant and bar.

In addition to the skiing and hotel facilities there are also a number of activities such as cooking classes, craft work, painting, movies, treasure hunt and so on.

Hotel Alto Nevados Chillan

Introduction to Ski Hotel Alto Nevados de Chillan

The Ski Hotel Alto Nevados de Chillan has a very apt name considering that “alto” means high. Not to be confused with the other hotel known as “Nevados de Chillan”, this hotel is located right beside the main ski slopes of the Nevados de Chillan Ski resort. Obviously, this is very handy for those who like the idea to ski in and out of the hotel on to the piste.

It is a boutique type hotel in a very modern, minimalist style, which will not be to everyone’s liking. More practical than cosy. In reality this is a hotel for ardent skiers who are not seeking any particular “home comforts”, but who want a decent and practical place to sleep overnight.

There are 99 guest rooms in the stretched-cube-like building.

Within the hotel facilities is a cafeteria, bar and ski rental.

More Information About Nevados de Chillan Ski Resort

Please follow this link to see our presentation on Nevados de Chillan ski centre.

About Ski Hotel Alto Nevados de Chillan

Alto Nevados de Chillan is a relatively new hotel located right beside the main, pisted ski run of Nevado de Chillan ski centre.

From the outside it does not look particularly inviting, looking very “block-like”. It is a modern, “design concept” boutique hotel whereupon rooms are spacious, but with little furniture to create any kind of “warm atmosphere”.

It is a practical place to sleep if you love skiing and want to get out onto the slopes directly from the hotel front door.

Hotel Nevados De Chillan

Introduction to Ski Hotel Nevados de Chillan

The Ski Hotel Nevados de Chillan is a modest, rustic style hotel offering 70 guest rooms located on two floors.
In addition to the rooms the hotel offers two exterior thermally-heated pools.

About Ski Hotel Nevados de Chillan

Offering 70 guest rooms spread over two floors the Hotel Nevados de Chillan is a one alternative for staying in the Chillan Ski resort area.

The hotel on its exterior looks to be quite simple, rustic even, with modest rooms.

One of the benefits, however, of staying at this hotel is the opportunity to bathe in the exterior hot-spring pools with heated water from natural thermal volcanic heat. The hotel also offers a restaurant.

Nevados de Chillan is located near the pistes within a wooded area, and after it has snowed, the scenery here is very picturesque.

More Information About Nevados de Chillan Ski Resort

Please follow this link to see our presentation on Nevados de Chillan ski centre.

Hotel Termas De Chillan

The Ski Hotel Termas de Chillan is the original, 5-star ski hotel for the Chillan ski centre. Today it is no longer the exclusive hotel for the resort, but it still offers a good level of accommodation and facilities.

Its interior of natural wood creates a warm and “mountain-cosy” ambience.

The hotel offers 109 guest rooms plus all the facilities usually associated with a higher-end hotel such as: restaurants, games room, bar, gym, a store and even a hair salon. In addition, as the name would suggest, there is a thermally heated hot springs spa adjacent to the main hotel. As well as the thermal pools there is also an indoor and an outdoor swimming pool.

In addition to providing a comfortable stay, skiers can take the piste down from above and ski through the woods to the hotel.

About Ski Hotel Termas de Chillan

The Hotel Termas de Chillan is a famous hotel in Chile. Known for its naturally fed, volcanically-heated thermal springs as well as a principal ski centre hotel.
When Termas de Chillan opened it was designated a 5-star rating because it had all the facilities required to achieve this rating. Today, it retains the same rating, although the hotel a little older, although it has endured a renovated recently, bringing modernity and a fresh appearance.

The interior is in a style that reflects “mountain warmth” with natural wood visible in many areas.

Another pleasing aspect to this hotel is that there is a forest almost surrounding the building, and a ski run that cuts through the woods leading directly to the hotel.

The 109 guest rooms are spacious and equipped with large beds, well decorated and welcoming.

Other facilities and services include:
Lounge, bar, café, shop, restaurant, ski storage, ski rental, adjacent hot springs spa, outdoor pool and heated indoor pool.
Spa – Alunco Spa and Wellness

Thought has been invested into the look of this Spa, specifically using natural wood in the interior and running water to create a warm, relaxing ambience for people using the facility. This is one of the largest SPA’s in Chile offering a dry sauna, steam sauna, jacuzzies, small pools, massage and other treatments.

Snowshoe hike and snowmobiles are also offered by the hotel.

The Hotel Termas de Puyehue, Lago Puyehue, Chilean Lake Region

Introduction

The Hotel Termas de Puyehue was designed by the German architect Eugenio Freitag. Construction began in 1937 and was completed in 1942. The initial project was to provide a high-end hot springs and spa for the then Chilean “ruling class”. And, indeed, the better off Chileans came here to enjoy the stunning scenery and bathe in natural, health-providing thermal spring waters.

Today, after an extensive investment program the hotel has been transformed, once again, into a high-end, quality health spa.

From our point of view, for those on a general Chilean Lake itinerary, a stay at Hotel Termas de Puyehue for a few nights will not only provide a great relaxation point, but it will introduce you to Chile’s wonderful natural hot springs (albeit at the hotel the spring water is in indoor and outdoor specialty-pools), but the enormity of the building and stunningly beautiful, natural surroundings offer a truly “good feel” experience.

About

The actual building the hotel occupies is impressively large. Looking front on, the entrance is an extremely grand, almost like a tower, with a gigantic, high archway. The style is very much like the statement architecture of some buildings built by the Germans around the time of World War II.

The hotel still is very large and spacious inside.

The History

The ownership has changed hands many times starting, initially with the “Sociedad Termas de Puyehue”, partnered with the “Sociedad Turismo y Hoteles de Chile”. This then changed in 1949 when the hotel was taken over by the Banco de Chile, until 1953 when the bank decided to sell the property. People who lived in the nearest city of Osorno appreciated the value of the hotel and created a society to buy it from the bank. The society comprised 10,000 shareholders under the company name of “Termas de Puyehue Osorno Ltda”. But, unfortunately, in 1957 a fire destroyed part of the hotel and from that moment it became difficult to manage as a viable operation.

It was then, in the late 1980’s, when Guillermo Schiess bought 50% of the shares from the holding company with a view to re-establishing Hotel Termas de Puyehue back to its former glory. Guillermo instigated a strategic plan to reopen the hotel and make it a viable business.

Firstly, he opened access to the hot springs during the summer months. He then complimented the summer season by offering accommodation to people who wanted to ski at the nearby Antillanca ski centre – a few kms further up the side of the nearby Casablanca volcano.

Then the hotel underwent a radical renovation and upgrade program that occupied a five-year period and today the hotel is, indeed, a luxury looking, high-end hotel and health spa.

The interior, benefits from well-selected natural wood in as many places as possible, combined with soft lighting, which creates a “warm” and cosy environment.

Space is then occupied with a restaurant, bar, games room and many rest areas.

Lodge Futangue, Lago Ranco, Chilean Lake Region

Introduction

The Futangue lodge is part of, and connected to, the Futangue Private Reserve. This reserve is like a National Park, but without the National Park classification. It encompasses a large swathe of virgin, native Valdivian rain forest with various trekking trails, lakes and rivers for fly fishing and kayaking, as well as horse riding and other exhilarating, outdoor activities.

People who stay at the lodge can enjoy the reserve each day and then return to the high-level comfort of the accommodation and enjoy great food accompanied with good wine (if wine is your choice!). One of the benefits of coming here is that, unlike the more popular destinations in the Chilean Lake Region and elsewhere in Patagonia, Futangue is a relatively new destination, and the natural wilderness can be enjoyed without too many other people around.

The accommodation at Futangue is split between the main lodge and a separate house, 120mts from the main lodge. Futangue Hotel and Spa offers 16 guest rooms, bar and restaurant and then, in a separate building is the Casa Exloradores (Explorers House) with 10 more rooms.

The Lodge

The Futangue Hotel and Spa is a property located in the meadows very close to Lago Ranco. It is a property that, on its exterior, emits the style of the farm barns and stables in this part of Chile, but in the interior, it is high-end, lodge style offering 16 guest rooms, therefore it can be very personal. It is a boutique property with cosy, wood panelled interiors, as well as flooring.

Casa Exploradores

This is more like a large, private house 120 mts from the main lodge, offering 10 more guest rooms as well as a general terrace from which there is a fine view to the granite, Rumumeica Towers. Guests using the house can eat in the restaurant in the main lodge.

Each of the buildings has interior decoration that is warm and cosy, using colourful, local fabrics and various adornments from the Mapuche culture.

Futangue Private Reserve

The Futangue nature reserve covers a sector of Northern Patagonia and the foothills of the Andes Mountains. The Park borders the northern shore of the large, Ranco Lake. Within the park is considered to be one of the best, and most importantly preserved examples of Valdivian rain forest, containing one of the best biodiversity hotspots on Earth. Surprisingly, the Futange reserve contains 70% of the flora of South American rainforests.

Futangue means “large cannon” in the indigenous, Huilliche language. Large cannon was the name given by the original settlers, to the valley and river passing through it. The forest canopy here is extensive and very beautiful when peppered in snow in the winter months and although mainly evergreen, the changing to red, orange and yellow colours of the deciduous trees looks picturesque in the autumn months. The forest is also home to numerous varieties of flora and fauna, although some of these are under threat such as the Pudú deer and Darwin frog.

Hotel Cabaña del Lago, Puerto Varas, Lake Region

Inspected By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Hotel Cabaña del Lago offers a hotel with 158 rooms plus 5 self-contained eco-apartment cabins. In 1980 the owner, Luis Wellman, from German ancestry, opened the cabins and later came the hotel and even later arrived a much larger, more modern hotel. Effectively there is a combination of cabins, plus a building that was the original hotel and another, larger building which is a newer part of the overall hotel offering.

This hotel definitely reflects a German style (as does much of the Lake Region in Chile) with the use of natural wood on walls and ceilings.

About

The main style of the hotel is that of an “Alpine” lodge, with good use of stone and natural wood as well as stone ceramics in areas such as the spa. The 158 rooms are well decorated in a cosy, warm style with the use of natural wood panelling halfway up the wall and nice, warm colouring together with well-chosen bed covering materials. All rooms have a view of one sector of the Lake Llanquihue (pronounced yan-kee-way), but not the volcano.

However, the north-eastern, corner rooms do have the view to the volcano. The principal view from most of the rooms is of the lake and along the lake shore as well as the village of Puerto Varas.

There is also a good indoor swimming pool and spa, a restaurant and event centre.

It should be noted that this hotel caters for families, very well, with amenities such as a children’s room, billiard room, cinema room as well as an outdoor children games area and football field.

Therefore, if you have kids then this is probably a good place to include on your itinerary, on the other hand, if you do not have children and you seek “peace and quiet” then this may not be the place to include in your itinerary.

The Restaurant

From the “Mirador del Lago” restaurant there is a view of the lake, and volcano, as well as food from the locality.

There are also two bars, one is called the Tronador Bar, located on the 6th floor where there is a good view of the Llamquihue lake and Osorno Volcano at the far end.

Hotel Vira Vira, Pucon

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

For years Pucon was without a high-end accommodation option, but now, at last, it has one. The Vira Vira lodge is an up-market, country lodge-style property set within its own 22-hectare estate, beside the Liucura River.

The Swiss owners, in line with Swiss perfection, have focussed on every detail and aspect of this property to provide real, luxury, high-level accommodation, plus the bits and pieces that accompany such a statement. For example, the food and wine is gourmet, and the wines are among the top end; excursions are operated with exclusivity in mind, some trips are unique to Vira Vira and guides are professional.

Surrounding the main lodge are lush gardens and native woodland and from some areas there is an exceptional view of the snow-covered cone of the Villarrica Volcano.

In addition, the Swiss owners have brought a sense of home with them by way of their very own modern, cheese-making facility, accompanied by their own organic vegetable garden.

Accommodation is split between 12, luxury, split-level villas, with separate living room with river frontage; 6 suites and a 5-bedroom house for up to 10 guests.

All rooms are tastefully decorated with well-chosen objects, colour selection, wall hangings, rugs and textured fabrics. Tall, picture windows, open up views to the natural, outside world.

About

In line with other top-end accommodation lodges in Chile, such as the likes of Tierra, Explora, Singular and Viña Vik, the Vira Vira is currently the best high-end accommodation offering within the Pucon area.

The guest rooms are all decorated, furnished, and styled in a way that exudes quality and style. Such luxury is either expected by guests who have lives of the same level or can be a new experience for those who wish to be “pampered” for a while. Either way, a few nights here will be a fine reward and experience from the usual life that most people endure.

The overall emphasis is one of exclusivity. Guest rooms exude quality, food is gourmet, excursions are varied and designed in such a way to enable guests to appreciate the natural surroundings and culture.

Great care is taken to suit the excursion and / or activity to the individual guest’s abilities and health as well as personal desires. With this in mind, there are over 39 excursion activities accompanied by educated guides.

Community Visit

Vira Vira, like most of Pucon, is built on native Mapuche land. The owners took great care to involve the Mapuches in the process of building the property on their land and one of the things to come out of this is a good relationship with the Mapuche people. Consequently, at Vira Vira there is an option to visit a traditional Mapuche Ruka House and learn about their unique culture. See at close quarters how a Mapuche woman weaves on her loom and enjoy some of their culinary heritage.

Hotel, Cabins and Apartments Monteverde, Pucon

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

Monteverde started as a good quality self-catering cabin option but has developed into other configurations that include self-catering apartments, as well as a bed and breakfast hotel. Therefore, no matter what your accommodation need is, Monteverde can provide.

About

Hotel, Cabins and Apartments Monteverde is a family owned and run affair. The husband-and-wife team, who also live on site, have developed Swedish-style and German quality self-catering cabins that are not only cosy, well equipped, and spacious, but also offer superb views down to Lake Villarrica and beyond.

The complex, for want of a better category description, is located 5km from Pucon village, on a steep hill side, up and away from the main lake-side road, set amid nice gardens.

Apart from the 16 cabins (capacity for 2 to 8 guests), which are ideal for couples or families seeking spacious, private, house-like accommodation, there is a quaint, small hotel with rooms for 2 to 3 guests that offers breakfast included. This is very suitable for couples.

And, finally, there is a separate unit comprising modern apartments for 2 to 4 guests, with small kitchens.

The style throughout the accommodation options is very much that of an English country cottage, especially in the hotel.

In the cabins the style is also country but mixed with a Scandinavian flavour as well. Each cabin comes with a small kitchenette, log-burning stove, and plasma tv as do the self-catering apartments.

In addition to the accommodation there is an outdoor pool set in nice gardens, plus a smaller, heated, children’s pool, a playroom with basketball hoop, table football and games. Beside the hotel is a sauna and outdoor hot tub.

In addition, there is access to the beach at the lake side for those who fancy a swim in the lake.

The Hotel Antumalal, Pucon

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Hotel Antumalal is a nostalgic, boutique hotel, which is also a family business. The origins date back to 1938 when Guillermo and Catalina Pollack - Rindler, from Prague, emigrated to Chile to escape the War.

The History

It was then, in 1944, with the opening of a tea salon beside Lake Villarrica, when the seeds were sown for the Antumalal Hotel. Catalina Pollak, along with her mother Davita, set about creating delicious cakes and tarts based upon traditional recipes from their homeland that were sold at the tea salon. People came to visit this beautiful spot and enjoy their tea accompanied home-made cakes.

The name Antumalal originates from the Mapuche language and means “sun set”, of which, on a clear day, there is a beautiful one over the lake.

Financing

One day, as fate would have it, the then President of Chile, Gabriel Gonzalez Videla, came to have tea at the salon. Guillermo, not one to shy away from an opportunity, approached the president and asked if it would be possible to receive a loan from the state to build a hotel on this 5 -hectare spot, only 2km from Pucon village.

The president helped Guillermo through the Chilean State office called Corfo, the department that helps finance entrepreneurial projects. This, therefore, was when the Antumalal hotel project was initiated.

Design

The architect, Jorge Elton, in line with the 1940’s style of Bauhaus together with Frank Lloyd Wright, created the plans for the hotel. However, one thing that Guillermo insisted upon was that the building had to be strong, just in case a volcanic eruption resulted in rocks and stones falling down onto the roof. Therefore, in view of this possibility the hotel was built with an extra strong, reenforced roof.

Construction took five years to complete and the hotel, with landscaped gardens, was open for business in 1950.

VIP Guests

At this time, access to Pucon was not particularly easy. The road from Villarrica was rough and unpaved. Pucon was not particularly developed and the people who frequented the area for “down time” were often fishermen. However, over time, more and more people discovered both the charm and beauty of the Pucon location as well as the, at that time, best hotel in the area - the Antumalal. It is not surprising that many celebrities of the day, especially in the 60’s came to stay at the hotel. On the wall, to the right of the entrance lobby, there are wonderful pictures of a past era of high-profile guests such as Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Neil Armstong, James Stewart, Barry Goldwater and Isabel Allende.

In 2010 a modern spa was added to the property, embedded, skilfully into the hill side, comprising of a sauna and a half indoor / outdoor pool with the indoor part enjoying a wide, open, log fireplace.

The hotel is small, offering 12 guest rooms from which there is either a lovely view to the flower-rich gardens and / or to the lake, plus 3 suites, 3 independent chalets and 1 small, independent house. Total capacity is for 55 guests.

Today the property is still managed by a Pollack, Rony Pollack to be precise – Guillermo’s daughter.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

The most significant claim to fame for this hotel is that back in 1968, when Queen Elizabeth II was touring South America, Her Majesty came and stayed at Antumalal along with her husband Prince Phillip.

They were not alone, accompanied by an entourage of staff and advisors, the Queen also acted as an arbitrator between Chile and Argentina over a border dispute, and a meeting about this issue was held here at Antumalal. To this day there is a wonderful black and white picture on the wall of the entrance lobby of Her Majesty standing beside Prince Phillip on the terrace looking down to the lake. It has been said that the Queen has mentioned to more than one Chilean Ambassador to the UK that she has very fond memories of her stay at Antumalal.

There is one cabin named “the Royal Suite” and this is where the Queen stayed. We are not sure if they have changed the sheets since!

About

Apart from the visit by Her Majesty the Queen of England back in the sixties, the hotel is a relic from that period in time. From the moment you walk in and glance to the right, the style of furniture, the lamp stands, and overall look, create an impression that you have walked right into the sixties period.

This feeling, together with the design of the hotel with large, angled floor to ceiling windows and exterior stonework on a robust-looking building also combine to give the feeling that this could easily be a James Bond 1960’s movie set - the HQ of Spectre, for example. For those who love this kind of nostalgia, this “Retro” hotel should fit the bill.

The location is wonderful. Set on its own hillside, away from the busy main road, surrounded by woods and looking down onto spectacular green, flowered gardens, beyond which is a slice of Lake Villarrica, is a dream set up. And then there is the view from the terrace down to the lake and the Pucon Peninsula opposite, beyond which is the high, limestone, forested mountains in the distance that provide, quite simply, a “World Class” view.

On the other side, to the west, is the view to almost the entire lake, whereupon on a summers evening there are spectacular sun sets to admire as the sun goes down, reflecting off the lake water.

There are only 12 guest rooms in the main building at Antumalal. And, in line with its desire to keep its sixties heritage, rooms are simple, but comfortable. Some may say that even though rooms have been upgraded to a good level, that they are slightly on the rustic side, but that goes hand in hand with the overall style of the property. Bathrooms are, however, modern.

The restaurant enjoys a fine view to Lake Villarrica, with an adjacent exterior terrace, which is ideal for “sun downers”, and has got a reputation for providing very good food.

In the grounds there is a sauna and half indoor / outdoor pool, steps down to a private beach and some walking trails in the grounds.

For nostalgia, quiet and tradition, Antumalal is a good place to be based during your stay in the Pucon Area.

Hotel Tierra Chiloe, Western Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

ExperienceChile.Org will arrange all-inclusive programs based at Hotel Tierra Chiloe that will allow you to explore and see many areas of Chiloe Island.

In line with the other Tierra properties in key destinations of interest in Chile, the Tierra Chiloe offers, currently, in our opinion, the best level of accommodation on Chiloe Island.

The main building is an architectural delight mixing raw cement and practical modernity with cosy, natural wood; along with spacious common areas and guest rooms, all with large windows through which to admire the mix of tidal inlets, wetlands and rural countryside.

The service is professional and personal. The food menu is tasty and creative along with quality wine options. Breakfast, too, is full of healthy and delicious alternatives.

Ideally, if selecting to include Tierra Chiloe in your itinerary, you should go for one of the all-inclusive options. There is nothing better than to go out each day on an excursion to visit and explore parts of Chiloe Island and then return to a welcoming and comfortable base. Here at ExperienceChile.Org we will encourage you to let us include Tierra here, and in any of the locations where a Tierra exists, and we will add to your itinerary a benefit of some kind.

About

The Tierra brand is all about superseding the expectation. Each of the Tierra properties emits an innovative, unique, and surprising structure that, from the moment of check-in, will put the guest into an emotion of intrigue which only adds to the overall enjoyment of your stay.

At Tierra Chiloe the modern, boutique lodge fulfils the element of positive surprise.

With a modest 24 guest rooms the staff can maintain a personal level of service and guests will not feel they are part of the “masses”.

The location of the lodge is in a remote hill side of the Rilan peninsula. On one side is the channel between the peninsula and the Island of Lamuy, then slightly to the right of the hotel on the sea channel side, is the wet lands of Pullao where a variety of birds come down to feed.

In front of the property are small, grass-covered knolls, or tiny hills and a small wood.

The interior of the lodge is warmly lit, furniture is chosen to be comfortable and “natural”, and then there is the central open, copper fireplace that creates a central, cosy ambience.

The lodge is a base from where to explore the places of interest and cultural aspects of Chiloe Island as well as participate in activities such as horse riding, trekking and boat navigations to other islands.

Hotel Castro, Castro, Chiloe Island, Western Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Hotel Castro was formally known as the Hosteria Castro, but has endured a renovation, along with guest-room extension, resulting in an upgrade to full “hotel” status.

It is a modern building just off the main Castro Plaza. Rooms are decorated and furnished to a decent level and the hotel also offers a small indoor pool and spa.

About

The Hotel Castro is a “practical” hotel offering 49 guest rooms in total, 29 rooms in the standard category and 20 suites. All rooms with central heating, en-suite bathrooms, TV and Wi-Fi.

The 20 suites are a newer extension of the original hotel and these are more spacious and better decorated than the standard rooms. These rooms also enjoy a view to the Castro fiord and peninsula opposite.

There is a restaurant that offers many options but specialises in sea food.

The Hotel Centro de Ocio, Castro, Chiloe, Western Patagonia

Introduction

The Hotel Centro Ocio is a small, rustic, boutique-style lodge sitting amid its own 20-hectare site of land. The hotel offers 11 guest suites in various accommodation options, nice views over the Castro fiord and back to the city of Castro, from its high-ground position on the Rilan Peninsula. It enjoys, too, access to its own beach and woods, and offers excursions to all interesting places of interest throughout Chiloe Island as well as various activities.

Self-Sustainable

The hotel also aims to be a self-sustainable operation and do all that they can to support rural life and nature. Processes have been implemented to reduce the environmental impact of running a hotel by way of recycling glass, plastics and cardboard and using organic waste to put back into the soil. And, where possible the hotel practices “fair trade” by checking up on suppliers to see if they follow fair trade guidelines in their processes.

The exterior as well as the interior occupies lots of natural wood to create a warm, cosy environment.

ExperienceChile.Org will arrange all-inclusive programs based at Centro Ocio that will allow you to explore and see many areas of Chiloe Island.

About

The emphasis of the Centro Ocio Hotel is to provide guests with a relaxing ambience, a place to rest and an opportunity to connect with nature and explore Chiloe Island.

Along with the personal service ethic, the accommodation is “warm and cosy”, with each guest room enjoying views down to the Castro channel, or fiord, and the surrounding gardens.

Hosteria Ancud, Chiloe, Western Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Hotel Ancud, officially the “Hosteria Ancud”, hosteria meaning more of a simple level hotel, has been the principal accommodation site in Ancud for many years. The property enjoys a privileged position on high ground which, from the gardens and sea-side part of the hotel grounds, there is a nice view to the sea, which is great for sunsets.

The hotel bedrooms are at modest level, although the suite appears to be better. In addition to the 24 rooms there is a restaurant, bar and conference room.

The restaurant is lined, on one side, with large windows that open up the view to the sea.

About

The Hosteria Ancud offers 24 guest rooms. The hotel is located in a residential sector of Ancud, offering nice views to the sea from the garden.

This is a modest hotel, which is more like a lodge with its tree-log interior walls and stone-floored lobby.

The El Mosco Lodge, Villa O’Higgins, Carretera Austral, Aysen, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Lodge was created by a backpacker who fell in love with raw Patagonia. It started as a simple hostal, but in 2005 is morphed into a better level property.

About

The El Mosco Lodge is a simple, rustic property offering a “no frills” accommodation option in very remote Villa O’Higgins village, some 571km south of Coyhaique. Here, is literally, “the end of the road”. The end of the Carretera Austral and the end of the road on mainland Chile (there is no road through Chile connecting to Punta Arenas, further south).

This is a simple property, but offers a self-catering cabin, camping, single and double rooms with private and shared bathrooms, a lounge, a common room with maps, books and Wi-Fi and a friendly kitchen.

There is also a sauna and hot tub.

Guests can use the kitchen to prepare their own meals.

This is the kind of place where you can meet other travellers, have some drinks, read books and play games.

Entre Hielos Lodge, Caleta Tortel, Carretera Austral, Aysen, Patagonia

Introduction

Considering that Caleta Tortel is a simple, rustic village (yes, we use that term for the entire village), build almost entirely atop of stilts and connected only by wooden board walks, the Entre Hielos Lodge is somewhat of an impressive feat, offering a small oasis of decent-level accommodation in an otherwise lack of any decent alternatives.

The lodge is a rustic property offering a few rooms decorated in a cosy and warm way. Service is provided by the family owners, and they are personable and friendly. There is a small, but cosy, library area and living room as well as a small, combined kitchen-dining room area, where good local produce and home-cooked food is served.

It is important to note that electricity is rationed in Tortel and therefore there is no electricity during the late hours through to the morning.

About

The lodge Entre Hielos is a small, simple, but warm and cosy rustic accommodation option in Caleta Tortel.

If you wish to experience Caleta Tortel or require a logistical night here (although the minimum stay is two nights) then Entre Hielos is really the only option if you want somewhere reasonably comfortable.

Explora Lodge Patagonia National Park, Carretera Austral, Aysen, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Explora brand is present in a number of key destinations in both Chile and Argentina. The emphasis of the product is that guests can enjoy and receive quality accommodation and services whilst being located amid a place of outstanding, natural beauty. These beautiful areas can then be explored each day, accompanied by educated guides with a return to the comfort of a top-end lodge at night.

Recently Explora has been granted the concession to operate what used to be the Tompkins Foundation Lodge in the heart of the Chacabuco Valley which, itself, is within the Patagonia National Park.

The Park covers more than 300,000 hectares.

Please see more information here

The Explora Lodge offers 6 incredibly well furnished and decorated guest rooms, within an equally luxurious-level lodge.

The materials used in construction, including natural stone and wood have been finished to a quality level. The choice of interior furnishings, as well as artistic prints create a traditional, Italian-style environment.

If you are accustomed to quality, high-end living, or just want to treat yourself to this level, be totally cut-off from the rest of the World and experience raw, Patagonia at close quarters, then a stay here is a must.

About

The purpose of Explora Lodges is to offer guests high-level accommodation and facilities during the rest time and educational, active excursions during the daytime.

The Explora Lodge Valle Chacabuco follows this philosophy. The actual lodge offers 6 very comfortable guest rooms within an equally very tastefully furnished and interior-decorated main lodge.

The ethos of the Tomkins Foundation, and in line with that of Explora, is to protect the environment as much as possible. To this end the Explora lodge is built from stones obtained from quarries in the Chacabuco Valley and the wooden beams, as well as the floors, are all from recycled wood.

The kitchen also goes to great lengths to use primarily organic and biodegradable cleaning products.

Patagonia Park is in the process of adopting a 100% renewable energy system, which will make it the first self-sustaining energy park in the world.

One thing that guests should be aware of it that there is no electricity after midnight until 07:00hrs the next morning.

The main living room as well as the dining room are ideal spaces where guests can unwind and relax after a day of hiking. Here, guests can sip quality wine or other drinks prior to dinner and chat about how the day has been. There are also large comfortable and cosy chairs to sit into by the stone-sided fireplace. And at night, as long as the sky is clear, there is the terrace from where to gaze at the stars.

The location of the lodge is in the heart of the Chacabuco Valley, which in turn, is within the Patagonia National Park in the Aysen Region of Chilean Patagonia.

This particular valley used to be a main hunting route and is still a place where the local fauna traverses through Patagonia.

Hacienda Tres Lagos, Puerto Guadal, Lake General Carrera, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

Located just off the south-western corner of Lake General Carrera, and the Cruce el Maiten, and only a few km west of Puerto Guadal, is Hacienda Tres Lagos. Named so because there are three lakes that are close by.

Although it has the name “hacienda” in its name, which means “ranch”, there are no cattle, sheep or horses on the land in the traditional ranch sense. Instead, there are independent, lodges spread around the western shore of Lake Negro. These accommodation modules allow for 22 guest rooms, all furnished to a high level, but maintaining a rustic style. Each room enjoys a fine view of the nearby lake and Patagonian scenery.

The hacienda occupies a fraction of the 1,400 hectares of the land it manages. In addition to the guest rooms is a “club house”, where the restaurant is located, a wine bar, “art gallery”, small library and traditional Patagonian Quincho (Barbecue House).

The property offers options such a trekking, local tours to the places of interest and other local activities. If you wanted to walk around the Lake Negro it covers 4km.

Apart from offering accommodation, the emphasis, according to the owners, is to protect the environment and in line with this objective they have embarked on a reforestation program by planting over 30,000 native trees on the land including Lengas, Coigües and Araucarias. In addition, the property has its own wastewater treatment plant in order to avoid contamination of the world's largest freshwater reserve.

About

The Hacienda Tres Lagos is like an upmarket, rustic-style resort whereby the accommodation is of good quality as well as food. There is a central “club house” that houses the restaurant and other amenities such as a small library, wine bar and “art gallery” and from where guests can book a number of tours to see local places of interest and / or activities.

It is set in a beautiful location beside one lake and very close to two others, hence the name “tres lagos” (three lakes).

It is not a massive place because it only offers 22 guest room, so this means that everything is still quite personal.

Tierra Luna Lodge, Lake General Carrera, Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

Located 290km South from Balmaceda airport (Coyhaique), which requires a road transfer of up to 5hrs, the Terra Luna Lodge is a unique accommodation option.

All the lodges are built from natural wood, apart from the dome units, and therefore the end result is a warm welcome and cosy comfort sensation.

Various accommodation units range from a cabin in a tree, to a room inside an old boat, an independent small house, apartments, domes, bungalows and cabins. If you like creativity, then this is the place. The French owner is also a “serious adventurer” who has developed a number of trekking trails, helicopter excursions and the Patagonia Jet boat all designed to take guests into the heart of remote Patagonia.

There is a main “club house” where meals are served and from here is a beautiful view to Lake General Carrera and the snow-covered Andes beyond.

Located by its own beach there is a roof-covered, outdoor hot tub for those wishing to relax outdoors and enjoy the lapping of the waves.

About

Terra Luna has is the concept of an experienced “outdoor adventure specialist” who has created a place with an emphasis on having fun.

The location of the property is on a hill side facing a small bay of lake General Carrera not far from the Puerto Guadal village.

As with the other accommodation options in this area, many of the attractions are accessible, such as the Marble caves, the River Baker, the waterfall confluence of the River Baker and River Neff as well as Valle Chacabuco. In addition, the owner here runs the helicopter tours and Patagonia Jet boat. Therefore, if you stay here there will be a lot to do.

Other activity options include horse riding, biking, overlanding, zip wire (called canopy) and trekking.

The guest capacity is 68 and the property has, believe it or not, a private discotheque (yes, a good sound system and roof-hanging glitter ball!), bar, restaurant, audio-visual room, cinema, jacuzzi, hot tub, sauna, mini climbing wall, and billiard table.

The accommodation units are refreshingly interesting with, for example, a room built within a tree, with a lower deck for an outdoor bed. There is also a small room within an old boat plus the more traditional rooms in cabins, apartments, bungalows and domes.

Although one can stay here and enjoy the Patagonian peace and tranquillity, this is very much the place for those who really enjoy outdoor pursuits.

Mirador Guadal, Lake General Carrera, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

The individual cabins, that comprise Mirador Guadal (which means Guadal Viewpoint), are positioned spaciously apart on a steep-sided hill facing Lake General Carrera.

There are 8 cabins spread around the property ranging from 2-person capacity rooms to family suites where capacity is 4 people in a cabin.

Each cabin, or room, is well finished, warm, cosy and modern rustic style, as well as offering a nice view to the lake.

About

In 1997, inspired by the beauty and tranquillity of the area on the southern shore of Lake General Carrera, the owners planned to build several, quite spacious, independent cabins with views to the lake, and did so a few years later.

Before commencing with the construction, the location of where each cabin would go was carefully considered in order that each one would have its own, unique view of the lake as well as receive the required privacy from other cabins with guests. Thought was given to where the windows would go, what size they should be as well as allowing for rooms to be spacious and comfortable. Planning even included the provision for sufficient space where a guest could read and be close to the fireplace.

In addition to the accommodation cabins, there is a restaurant, for breakfast and dinner, from where there are views through the woods to the lake beyond and glaciers atop the Northern ice field.

The emphasis here is on personal service and attention.

Mallin Colorado Eco Lodge, Lake General Carrera, Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

Mallin Colorado occupies 12 hectares of steep hill side and forest. In a sector cleared of trees are a number of independent cabins, made from natural logs, each reflecting a cosy charm of “the forest”. The interiors have warm lighting, log-burning fires and are generally decorated in a “homely” way. As they say themselves, their accommodation modules are a “fusion” between the rustic look and modern comfort.

Each of the four cabins enjoy an elevated view down to the edge of Lake general Carrera, with a Patagonian forest to the back.

More recently, an additional accommodation lodge has been added.

About

Mallin Colorado is truly a very quiet place where the only sound at night is the Patagonian wind, if it is blowing. The objective of Mallin Colorado is to offer guests a real place where they can be “cut off” from the normal hustle and bustle of modern life. If you just want to sit in your cabin, look at the view, read a book and not be disturbed then this is definitely the place to do that.

However, if you wish to participate in activities such as hiking and / or visit the local, natural attractions then you can do that too.

The principal lodge is what they call “the club house”. This is a very homely place with a stone-sided log fireplace, dining tables and sitting room area. The kitchen is within this building and where guests can come and enjoy their breakfast and other meals.

In addition, and in line with other Patagonian properties, there is a “Quincho”, which means barbecue place where roast lamb is often prepared.

El Pangue, Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

El Pangue Lodge comprises a number of independent, self-catering cabins, a “club house” and an outdoor, heated pool all set in a Patagonian valley surrounded by nature and beside the Risopatron lake, 28km south of La Junta and 18km north of Puyuhuapi village. As they say themselves, this is an “oasis” of calm and tranquillity.

About

The El Pangue lodge offers various, self-contained, wooden-constructed cabins with bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and dining areas. In addition, there is a main house where there is a restaurant, fireplace living room and games room.

The cabins range from a studio design to three-bedroom options, each emitting a cosy ambience. Breakfast can be included in the service if required.

These accommodation units are spread around the grounds where there are native trees and gardens in-between.

Swimming Pool

Among the facilities at El Pangue is a heated, outdoor swimming pool, which is 18 meters long and semi-covered. This allows one to be in the pool as well as enjoy the fresh Patagonian air and landscape. El Pangue will provide towels for the pool area.

Quincho

A Quincho in these parts means barbecue area. The El Pangue quincho is built in the Patagonian style, and used often to roast lamb on the spit, prepared in the style of the inhabitants of Patagonia.

A stay here is really to relax and maybe walk some of the trails, fly fish, soak in the outdoor, heated pool or jacuzzi and perhaps go boating on the lake. It also serves as a great logistical stop off when driving either way along the Carretera Austral between Caleta Conzalo or Futaleufu to Coyhaique.

Patagonia Lodge, Coyhaique, Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Patagonia Lodge began life as “Mincho’s Lodge”, but later changed hands and is now called Patagonia Lodge.

It is located a couple of kms south of the main sector of Coyhaique in its own, small oasis, with the River Simpson not far away and surrounded by trees.

Indeed, staying here is to be “cut off” from the hustle and bustle of downtown Coyhaique and feel like you are back on the Carretera Austral.

Constructed from wood and decorated inside with wood the property is every inch a lodge and along with it is a warmth and cosiness that comes with such places.

In addition to is home-cooked, food restaurant, there is a hot tub to relax in.

For those requiring a logistical night only this is a good bet and certainly it is well positioned for those arriving from the north and then heading south on the Carretera Austral. Alternatively, if you need a few nights rest then this, too, will serve that purpose.

About

The Patagonian lodge is a 20-room, rustic and authentic lodge in every sense of what a lodge means.

The wooden exterior as well as the interior, together with log-burning fires, and family-style furniture all combine to create a welcoming and cosy ambience.

On one side there is a view out to the valley and woods.

Hotel El Reloj, Coyhaique, Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Hotel El Reloj (reloj means clock), is a small, family property with 19 guest rooms, located east of the central sector of Coyhaique city.

At the back part of the building is the Coyhaique river and open, Patagonian country. This natural scenery can be seen from some of the rooms.

The building has a “family house” feel to it with the rooms also decorated and finished in the style of a private country home.

This is a simple, family friendly hotel.

About

The Hotel El Reloj began as a 4-bedroom hotel and in the early 1990’s the owners developed it into the 19-room property that it is today.

It is a simple place, very welcoming and emitting a “family home” feel throughout.

The rooms are cosy, simple and what one may expect if staying in someone’s home.

There is a breakfast room, which doubles as the restaurant too where good local food is served.

Hotel Dreams, Coyhaique, Carretera Austral Patagonia

Introduction

The Hotel Dreams is a modern 40 room hotel that also offers a heated swimming pool, sauna, and convention centre as well as restaurant of course.

It also incorporates a casino as in the type of place where you go to play the slot machines, blackjack and roulette.

Although the style of this hotel is nothing to do with other, lodge-style properties, found along the Carretera Austral, it does offer decent hotel room accommodation and, if you fancy a break from the abundance of nature then this city-style hotel will fit the bill.

About

Hotel Dreams is part of the national Dreams Hotel chain in Chile whereby the hotels also include a casino on their premises.

The interior decoration of the common areas is a mix of wood and natural stone, with well-chosen floor tiles too. And, as with many city-style hotels, the ground floor is spacious.

The Coyhaique Dreams hotel offers 40 guest rooms, each decorated in a modern way reflecting the style usually found in a city-located property.

Hotel Loberias del Sur, Puerto Chacabuco, Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Introduction

The Hotel Loberias del Sur is the only good level hotel in the vicinity of Puerto Chacabuco. Officially it is a “superior 4-star property”. It tries to be a lodge-style hotel, but it is more like a “normal” hotel. The 60 guest bedrooms are spacious and finished to a decent level.

For those wishing to take the catamaran to see the San Rafael glacier this is the hotel to stay at the previous night as well as the night of the day of return from the glacier.

Alternatively, the hotel offers a number of excursion programs whereupon you can stay at the hotel for several days and participate in these programs.

About

The Hotel Loberias del Sur is a 60-room hotel located adjacent to the small port Chacabuco from where the catamaran operates from for the navigations to the impressive San Rafael lagoon, where the glacier is of the same name. There is also the Aiken del Sur Park, which is a 300-hectare reserve, that guests can visit.

This is a modern hotel with an attractive exterior, spacious lobby and comfortable rooms. Considering the location of the property there is a nice view to the bay area, which, in turn is enclosed by steep, forested hill sides.

There is an outdoor deck area from where guests can enjoy a drink and the view, as well as a restaurant for lunch and dinner.

Guests can use a gym and spa, and Wi-Fi is available in the common areas.

Queulat Lodge, Queulat, Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile

Introduction

Posada Queulat, or more appropriately the Queulat Lodge, has been a family business since 1988 and service is personal and friendly with good home cooking. The main lodge and 6 cabins are located beside the Queulat River and fiord of the same name.

One could say that the location is very close to nature, with the high tide causing the river to cover the ground below the main lodge, which is supported by stilts, therefore avoiding any flooding. The land occupied by the property includes a 2.5km stretch of the riverbank as well as a small island.

This is the place to come if you like meeting and mixing with other travellers. It is a simple, “no frills”, rustic place.

The owners, Patricio and Rosario, together with their sons Patrick and Juanito work hard to make guests feel welcome and comfortable – it is that type of operation.

About

For those who love nature and the simple things in life, the Quaulat lodge is likely the place for you. It is not luxury level or full of extra facilities. It is small, rustic and friendly. There is NO internet connection, or televisions here.

The location is within, and surrounded by, nature. On one side is the Queulat river and in-between the cottage-like, wooden cabins is the natural garden, or park, filled with trees, ferns and the enormous Nalca plant leaves. Staying in one of the cabins really feels like being in the forest.

The property includes a main lodge, called “the club house” where there is an open fireplace, some chairs, tables, and small bar. There are books available to read. The ambience here is one of rustic cosiness whereupon the owner will often talk about the area and the history. This is the kind of place where you can sit and enjoy a glass of wine beside the roaring fire.

This is also where breakfast and meals are served, and guests are seated around one table, which creates an opportunity for people to “get to know each other” and mix.

All the cabins are located independently throughout the park, however, two; the Huemul and Chucao cabins are adjacent to each other interconnected therefore allowing for a small group or family to be together. Each cabin is named after a local flora and fauna.

Apart from accommodation and food, the Lodge staff offer private excursions such as hiking, a navigation in the Queulat fiord to the Poyeguapi island as well as sea kayak on the calm waters close to the property.

There is a “hidden” outdoor hot tub, where the large ferns and leaves from the Nalca give the hot tub a natural “privacy”. The actual hot tub and deck are constructed from Cypress wood and the water used to fill the tub comes from the natural melted ice of the Queulat glacier.

Note that the water is changed after each use of the tub.

Puyuhuapi Hot Springs Lodge,
Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Termas (which means hot springs) de Puyuhuapi, which is now known as Puyuhuapi Lodge, is nestled beside an inlet (Dorita Bay) off the Puyuhuapi fiord. It offers 30 guest rooms enabling it to be a “personal” hotel.

To get here requires a short boat ride across the fiord from the Carretera Austral, otherwise this is a totally “cut off”, secluded place.

The main hotel building is constructed from natural, wood with some sectors in stone. It is a high-end lodge emanating warmth and cosiness to those who enter.

On one side of the property is dense, natural, native Patagonian forest and in front is the Dorita Bay, which connects into the fiord of Puyuhuapi with forested hills the other side. The land the property sits upon is fed by natural hot-spring water from the ground, hence the name “termas”, and a number of pools have been created so that guests can bathe in the mineral-rich, heated waters.

It was opened in the early 1990’s, but it was ahead of its time. Today Puyuhuapi Lodge is one of those perfect places to unwind, relax, enjoy the natural beauty of nature all around. Activities and excursions here include walking in native, temperate rainforest, visiting the nearby Queulat National Park, sailing between Patagonian islands and fjords, enjoying thermal spring waters, relaxing with thalassotherapy treatments or massages in the spa, and then treating yourself to good food and a selection of wines at the end of the day.

About

The common areas of the Puyuhuapi Lodge enjoy large, picture windows that expose the magnificent exterior views to the stunning nature outside. There is a good, indoor pool and spa that offers personal health treatments. Then there are some outdoor heated, hot-spring pools where guests can bathe in warmth and, at the same time, breathe in clean, natural Patagonian air whilst also taking in the view be it during the day or maybe the spectacular star-lit night sky.

The exterior of the main building and accommodation sector is reminiscent of the historical buildings found in Chiloe island. These are constructions, not built up from foundations, but placed on stilts with the roof covered over with small wooden tiles.

The rooms are all finished to a high level of comfort with a great used of finished, natural wood, well-chosen colours and mand made bed coverings.

The key to staying at Puyuhuapi Lodge is to provide great comfort whilst being able to totally disconnect from the usual hustle and bustle of most people’s normal life style. One can opt to just relax here or participate in activities that include hiking, kayaking, boat trips, visits to National Parks.

Do not come here if you need the internet! The hotel does not have televisions or internet in the rooms specifically so that guests can “cut off” from the World.

The lodge spa treatments are many including an algae bath and hot stones as options to choose from.

Fundo Los Leones, Raul Marin Balmaceda, Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

The Fundo Los Leones is located beside the Pitipalena fiord, amid 3,000 acres of natural Patagonia. This area is one of the remotest, tranquil spots on Earth.

The Fundo, which means farm, offers five small, cosy and homely cottages for guests. This is a place where the electricity gets cut off at night and the only sounds are that of the water lapping the shore and any local fauna.

About

On the eastern side of the farm is the Pitipalena Fiord where there are often dolphins, penguins and occasionally orcas. On the western side of the property is the Palena river, which flows directly into the Pacific Ocean.

The Palena River is known for its excellent salmon and trout fishing, but also offers great kayaking and rafting. In the distance is the Corcovado National Park covering 726,000 acres and home to the Melimoyu Volcano at 2,400m as well as other snow-covered Andean peaks.

Raul Marin Balmaceda is a tiny fishing village is to the north of the property and on the edge of the 204,000 acre Tic Toc Marine Park, home to pristine beaches and numerous varieties of marine life.

Melimuyo Lodge, Between La Junta & Raul Marin, Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Introduction

The Melimoyu Lodge, not to be confused with the Alto Melimoyu Lodge, which is located at La Junta, is located approximately at the halfway point between La Junta and the tiny village of Raul Marin Balmaceda.

The lodge is really a private house, designed entirely as a lodge with the use if natural wood and stone. However, it has a modern design and lots of interior space. The four guest rooms are designed, furnished and decorated to a high-end level.

The location of the property is basically “right in the middle of nowhere”! It is surrounded by raw and wild Patagonia.

If you love fly fishing or just want a top-end place to stay over at whilst driving the Carretera Austral then Melimoyu lodge offers two different programs. Please see under the “About” tab. Then, obviously tell us here at ExperienceChile.Org what you want so we can make the arrangements.

About

The owners of Melimuyo Lodge have marketed it as an exclusive fly-fishing base. However, this does not mean it is only for those who like to fish. It is surrounded by native forests and crystal-clear rivers and these can be appreciated by anyone who loves nature.

From this base, guests will be able to also bird watch, go kayaking, enjoy natural hot springs, soak in the hot tub, walk and use the buggy. At the end of the day there will be high-end cuisine accompanied by great wines.

The lodge offers 4 luxury-level guest rooms and 150 m2 of interior common areas, where small groups of friends and families can relax.

There is a living room, bar, sitting room and dining room too.

On the banks of the river the property offers a hot tub and barbecue area.

However, please note that there is NO internet connection here.

Should you be one of those people with a time restraint and ExperienceChile.Org has arranged for a helicopter arrival, then there is a heliport to accommodate such a landing (weather permitting of course).

If you are coming for the fishing, the lodge provides expert guides.

All meals are paired with drinks and juices, locally crafted beers, imported beers and a wide range of high quality and exclusive wines.

Fly Fishing

The lodge operates fly fishing along the Figueroa and Palena Rivers, Lake Rosselot and a number of secret locations where there are lagoons and spots on the rivers that not many people know about. Novices are welcome too.

Two Types of Program for Two Types of Guest

The All-Inclusive Program

The Lodge offers an all-inclusive program for guests staying two or more nights, which in addition to expeditions with bilingual guides, offers an open bar and all meals at the hands of local chefs skilled in making the most out of the Patagonian ingredients.

IN/OUT transportation to and from the Chaiten Aerodrome, Balmaceda Airport (Coyhaique) and Esquel Airport in Argentina, are also included in the all-inclusive fare.

The Half Board Program for Self Drivers

The Lodge also offers a Half-Board program for those not interested in the All-Inclusive program, designed for self-drivers who want to stay the night at a high-class accommodation, and then continue along their journey through the Carretera Austral. The Half-Board program includes dinner, and guests can access any activities they are interested in at an additional cost.

Espacio y Tiempo Lodge, La Junta,
Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Inspected By Experience Chile
Approved By Experience Chile

Introduction

The hotel Espacio y Tiempo was one of the “pioneer” lodges to open up along the Carretera Austral in the early 1990’s. It is located just off the main Carretera Austral road, approximately halfway along the straight sector of the highway that bypasses the actual La Junta Village.

About

The property has been built with natural wood and stone which emits an overall effect of a welcoming, cosy mountain lodge. In addition, the 9 guest bedrooms, also decorated with natural wood have all been finished to a high standard and this, combined with soft lighting, well-chosen colours and well-equipped bathrooms combine to offer a good quality level of accommodation.

The bar is especially welcoming due to its simple, rustic feel and the numerous, different hats that adorn the interior “slanted roof”.

There is Wi-fi in all guest bedrooms, a restaurant with capacity for 25 people, a cosy stone-fireplace living room with a variety of board game and books to enjoy.

It should be noted that La Junta is also located approximately halfway down the Carretera Austral between the start at Puerto Montt and the middle city of Coyhaique.

From La Junta there are also many places to visit and activities to enjoy such as the Palena and the Queulat National Parks, hiking, boat trips and fly fishing. Alternatively, you can just relax in the lusciously green garden.

Alto Melimoyu Lodge, La Junta,
Carretera Austral, Patagonia

Introduction

The Alto Melimoyu, not to be confused with another lodge called Melimoyu (which is located west out of La Junta) is located just off the main Carretera Austral road roughly halfway along as the road bypasses the village.

The lodge is, effectively, a large private house with ten guest rooms.

It is built in the lodge style with natural wood and stone.

About

The Alto Melimoyu Lodge is a small boutique lodge offering ten welcoming, cosy rooms. There is also an exterior hot tub, sauna, fireplace living room, restaurant, and laundry service.