From designer lodges in Patagonia to vineyard estates in wine country, consider this a collection of the finest Chilean accommodation. Many also feature fully inclusive stays, showcasing their dramatic settings with expert-led excursions, along with equally inspired food and dining.
Fully at odds with the lunar landscapes of the Atacama Desert, this design-led jewel is a slice of luxury among the inhospitable. Rooms, dressed in cowhide rugs and handwoven throws, invite in Andean panoramas with private terraces – views shared by the world-class spa, cocktail bar and fine-dining restaurant. But, the all-inclusive rates also extend to a full range of excursions. Giant cacti, desert canyons and flamingo-dotted salt pans are taken in by everything from hikes to horse and bike rides. There’s also plenty of special interests, with highlights including stargazing with an astronomer and guided walks under the full moon.
Pool, Tierra Atacama
As Easter Island’s finest property, the explora Rapa Nui is a lesson in sweeping curves and gorgeous panoramas, with Jacuzzis, elegant rooms and massage areas looking out over rolling greenery. And, on everything from guided hikes and boat rides, you’ll explore among volcanoes and lava fields, pausing at those enigmatic stone moai. There’s even the option to snorkel and scuba to uncover the island’s sunken statues. Then, at day’s end, you’ll indulge with superlative South American dining, washed down with fine Chilean wines.
Explora Rapa Nui
While all of the accommodation we’ve featured pours up superb wines, for the very best, it pays to go right to the source. And, set right among the terracing vineyards of the Colchagua Valley, one of Chile’s premier wine regions, this Relais & Châteaux jewel comes complete with its very own winery and giant cellar. Tastings and sommelier-led tours abound, matched with the fantastic restaurant, where chefs combine the finest in seasonal produce with ingredients from the kitchen’s organic garden. Just as impressive is the accommodation. Full of stone-and-wood charm, private terraces offer lauded vineyard views.
Clos Apalta
From the timber-clad rooms to the floor-to-ceiling windows of the spa and contemporary-chic restaurant, the Tierra Patagonia takes every opportunity to showcase its privileged setting. But, glistening Lake Sarmiento and the great spires of Torres del Paine are not just for looking at. Whether by bike, horse, kayak or your own two feet, you’ll be able to take in the likes of snow-dappled vistas and mighty glaciers up close. Then, back at base, you’ll soothe any sightseeing aches with massages and soaks in whirlpool tubs, capped by fine local dining. Expect hearty stews and fall-off-the-bone lamb, all wine-paired. It is, of course, all included and all sustainable.
Lounge, Tierra Patagonia
The Chilean Lakes District is characterised by frosted volcanoes, quiet waterside villages and, yes, dozens of glittering glacial lakes. It’s a beautiful setting taken full advantage of by the &Beyond Vira Vira – a designer lodge beautifully perched on its own organic farm. Along with hot tubs and daily yoga classes at the spa, guests are pampered with fine wines and dining. Unsurprisingly, may opt for the all-inclusive rates, not least for the range of excursions included. Think everything from snowmobiling, dogsledding and hot-spring soaks to helicopter hiking, fishing and volcano flights.
&Beyond Vira Vira
Valparaíso, tumbling down into the Pacific in colourful crumbling mansions and winding alleys, is perhaps Chile’s most evocative town. It’s certainly its most vibrant, something exemplified by this gorgeous, bright-red palace – a lovingly restored national monument. And, it comes with all the amenities befitting its regal past, including a piano bar, wine cellar and library, complete with roaring fire. Then, alongside the spa and hot tubs, its rooftop terrace offers views right over the city and onto the sea. The rooms and restaurant are just as remarkable.
Palacio Astoreca
For stays in the mountain-framed Chilean capital, we highly recommend the Singular. It’s a neoclassical favourite that offers a certain boutique intimacy over its rivals, set right among the cafés, galleries and restaurants of the city’s artsy Lastarria district. However, perhaps the Singular’s greatest asset is its rooftop. Host to a glam pool and bar, it offers sweeping views over the city along with a fantastic cocktail menu. Then, when it’s time to retire, you’ll be cosseted by elegant rooms, furnished with antiques and marbled bathrooms. A fine spa and gym round off the facilities.
Restaurant