Patagonia: Journey to the End of the World

In Patagonia, the South American continent falls away into a striking landscape of ice-blue glaciers, prominent snowcapped mountains, pristine lakes and blankets of ice fields. Though Patagonia is ideal for adventure seekers, this region’s hotels and lodges offer something unbelievable for any type of traveler.

30 June 2017

patagonia-journey-end-world

1. For Foodies – The Awasi Patagonia

Located in the wild and remote Torres del Paine National Park, The Awasi Patagonia is a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux family, so while staying here you are guaranteed exceptional accommodations, service, and most importantly, dining.

All fourteen villas are a modern twist on old estancia outposts, and have been constructed from local wood that blends seamlessly into its surroundings. Looking out your window, you are rewarded with vistas of glacial lakes and the Torres Mountains. You’ll feel no need for a television, with views like this.

Rivaling the incredible view, is the lodge’s restaurant. The Awasi’s acclaimed Executive Chef Frederico Ziegler goes out of his way to prepare inventive dishes using as much locally sourced produce as possible, which is no easy feat given the lodge’s isolated setting.

Chef Ziegler’s creations will leave you wanting more, try the tender guanaco (a local breed of lama) steak or tartare, slow-cooked lamb shank, Austral crab lasagna, or perfectly grilled white fish. These dishes pair well with the free flowing wine at Awasi. And if you’re feeling extra spontaneous (or perhaps following a few glasses of the wine) ask the chef to “surprise” you, and he’ll go off menu, to prepare you one of the best meals you’ve eaten in your entire life.

2. For the Trailblazer – Patagonia Camp

If you’re looking for something out-of-the-ordinary, that none of your friends or family has ever done, Patagonia Camp is perfect for you. 100% ecofriendly, the camp includes 20 quirky, private en-suite yurts, each with their own terrace. The yurts harmoniously blend into the landscape, it looks as if the camp was built around nature, not the other way around. Go for the superior yurt with a private outdoor hot tub – this is the only location in Patagonia with jetted outdoor hot tubs!

From the comfort of your yurt, you’ll still feel completely at one with nature. Prepare to have one of the most peaceful slumbers of your life, fall asleep to the soft patter of rain on the roof of your yurt, and let the flickering stars above be your nightlight.

The Patagonia Camp is made for the hardcore adventurer, who wants to explore the rugged terrain freely. Trekking through the park is mind-blowing. Hike to the base of the imposing granite towers that the park is named after, then go fishing, horseback riding, sightseeing or on a wildlife excursion. The outdoor enthusiast won’t leave Patagonia Camp disappointed.

3. For your Bucket list – Explora Patagonia Hotel

The Explora Patagonia is the ultimate iconic hotel in Chile, and is picture-perfectly perched in the center of Torres del Paine National Park. When people think Patagonia, this is the hotel they imagine. You won’t be let down by the snowcapped peaks, clear lakes, and dense forested valleys that engulf this architectural gem. Talk to your guide on arrival and plan in advance if you wish to visit grey glacier! It is a popular activity with limited availability so asking to arrange this in advance is key.

In addition to the hotel’s cutting-edge design and breathtaking surroundings, the Explora also has its own horse stables, and is perfect for the equine lover, offering a multitude of horse experiences. Staying here is something you’ll definitely want to check off your travel bucket list.

4. For Families – Tierra Patagonia

Traveling with the entire family can be stressful at times, but staying at the Tierra Patagonia will make your family feel right at home. A friendly atmosphere that combines casual with luxury, the hotel has a warm, welcoming, attentive staff that will cater to your family’s every need. The design of the hotel allows for guests to mingle and socialize, or to find a quiet corner, excellent for bonding and playing board games with your family.

The hotel also has family friendly apartments and connecting rooms available, which makes lodging with the entire family worry-free.

The excursions at Tierra provide the type of flexibility that is important when traveling with children. You can decide to choose from activities like horseback riding or mountain biking, and your guides will always carry around yummy snack with them, like homemade trail mix, chocolate bars, cheese or fruit, to make sure that no member of the family gets grumpy.

After a jam-packed day of family excursions and exploring the beautiful Torres del Paine, don’t forget to make time for the luxurious spa. Tierra Patagonia has one of the best spas available in all of Patagonia.

5. For the Sophisticated History Buff – The Singular Patagonia

Who would’ve imagined that an old sheep-processing plant transformed into a hotel could be so spectacular? Restored by the descendants of the first pioneers that settled in the region, The Singular Patagonia combines modern elements with the buildings’ historic industrial past. Windows form the walls and highlight the spectacular views of the Fjord of Last Hope, this is juxtaposed beautifully with Victorian brickwork, steel grinders, lofty ceilings and gleaming century-old machinery.

The museum onsite preserves the building’s fascinating history of its transformation from a cold storage plant into a luxury hotel. After touring the museum, make sure to save a day for the hotel’s signature excursion – a private boat navigation trip to the Serrano Glacier where you’ll spend some time with huasos (Chilean cowboys) at an authentic estancia.

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