Notes from the field: Chile and Argentina

Our colleague Will has recently returned from a fact-finding trip to Chile and Argentina. He has made a number of trips to Latin America but this was his first time in Chile and the Patagonia region of Argentina.  The purpose of the visit was to enhance our knowledge and look at alternative properties.

In keeping with the Sunvil ‘promise’ we handpick all our accommodation and resorts and are very excited by Will’s findings and we will add some of the new places to our Chile and Argentina programme in the near future.  Will flew out to Santiago on the British Airways direct flight (Dreamliner) and returned from Buenos Aires with British Airways.

We asked Will to pick out some highlights of his visit to these interesting and beautiful countries.

My favourite accommodation.

My favourite property was the Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa, located a 10 minute drive from the centre of San Pedro de Atacama (Atacama desert). This hotel is enveloped by its natural surroundings with the Cordillera de la Sal mountain range behind it and the Catarpe Valley and hills in front if it. There are 42 rooms spread out within the grounds which are connected to the reception and restaurant by a series of gravel walkways. The hotel has extensive spa facilities and 6 small pools, one of which is heated. In addition, there is an open air astronomy platform with a powerful telescope which enables guests to take in the intricacies of our universe.

(This property is currently not on our website, so please contact the Latin America team for more details)

My favourite activity

My favourite activity was the full day trip to the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier located approximately 78km West of El Calafate (Argentina) in the Los Glaciares National Park.  This included a boat trip taking you right up to the Southern face of the Glacier.

My best meal

My favourite meal was at the Remota Patagonia Lodge on the outskirts of Puerto Natales. This was a Patagonian lamb shank with roasted seasonal vegetables served on a tomato salsa sauce.  A lovely way to end a busy day exploring the stunning Torres del Paine National Park. 

Highlight of my trip

The highlight of my trip was visiting the Atacama Desert, which despite its baron landscape also has an amazing natural beauty.  I spent a few days in the area and I discovered an amazing variety of different landscapes including the dramatic Death Valley. In addition, due to its remoteness and elevation it is an ideal place for stargazing.