Published on: August 18th, 2024
Chile is a country unlike any other, extending more than 4,200 kilometres (2,600 miles) down the western edge of South America. Here you’ll find arid deserts, verdant wine valleys, a cosmopolitan capital, crystal-clear lakes, mystical islands and gorgeous glacial vistas… not to mention some of the world’s most magnificent luxury hotels.
The best hotels in Chile offer more than your average amenities; each one brings something unique to the table, from surprisingly secluded villas to cosy geodesic domes. Whether you’re headed to the lunar landscapes of the Atacama, the craggy peaks of Torres del Paine or anywhere in between, here are our top 10 picks for where to stay in Chile.
1. &Beyond Vira Vira
Located amid the stunning forests and waterways of Chile’s Lake District, &Beyond Vira Vira offers everything you could want from a rural retreat. Built in the style of a traditional homestead, this modern estate has its own organic farm, vegetable garden and artisanal cheese factory.
&Beyond Vira Vira is completely surrounded by lush wilderness, with the snow-capped Villarica volcano rising up in the distance. Its spacious villas are set on the banks of the Liucura River, and the five-bedroom Hacienda is an exquisite home away from home for up to 10 guests.
2. Awasi Patagonia
If you’re planning a trip to Patagonia and trying to decide between visiting Argentina or Chile, this place might tip the scales toward the latter. Awasi Patagonia isn’t just one of the best hotels in Chile – it’s consistently ranked among the top hotels in all of South America.
Awasi Patagonia’s freestanding villas are set far enough apart to create a striking sense of isolation and immersion in nature; even the walk to the main lodge feels like an adventure. It’s also the only hotel in Torres del Paine that offers entirely bespoke excursions for each guest.
3. Explora Patagonia National Park
When it comes to remote luxury and untouched nature, Explora Patagonia National Park is hard to beat. It’s our favourite hotel in the Aysén Region, which is the country’s most sparsely populated region and is positively packed with fjords, lakes, forests and glaciers.
With just 10 rooms and suites, Explora Patagonia National Park is an incredibly intimate, self-sustaining lodge that blends into the surrounding environment. It’s ideal for travellers who want to explore the great outdoors without having to deal with distractions or crowds.
4. Tierra Chiloé
Cloaked in mist and imbued with spiritual significance, the archipelago of Chiloé feels like a world apart – and Tierra Chiloé encapsulates everything that makes it special. Set on the main island, its architecture echoes the palafitos (stilted houses) characteristic of local villages.
Part of our Positive Impact Collection, Tierra Chiloé is highly integrated with the community and dedicated to promoting environmental awareness. Its 24 rooms feature locally sourced materials and ocean views, while the restaurant highlights seasonal ingredients.
5. Explora Rapa Nui
There are few places on earth as alluring as Easter Island, and even fewer hotels that do it justice, but Explora Rapa Nui certainly does. There’s no better home base for exploring this mythical isle far off the coast of Chile.
The lodge itself has a calming atmosphere of understated luxury: the perfect complement to the exciting expeditions it offers. The focus is firmly on outdoor experiences, with more than 30 small-group activities including hiking, biking, boating, scuba diving and more.
6. EcoCamp Patagonia
Combining the rustic appeal of camping with impeccable comfort, EcoCamp Patagonia is composed almost entirely of geodesic domes. Located within Torres del Paine National Park, it’s a trailblazing example of low-impact tourism that doesn’t compromise on luxury.
Sustainability is at the core of this camp for those seeking mindful travel, from its use of renewable energy to its design principles inspired by Indigenous Kawésqar practices. We especially love the scenic Yoga Dome and spacious Suite Domes, which have heating and private bathrooms.
7. Clos Apalta Residence
Discovering the bountiful vineyards of Chile’s wine regions is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Chile. And while the areas around Santiago are full of phenomenal wine hotels, we’re especially enchanted by Clos Apalta Residence.
The Clos Apalta Winery opens its doors to travellers with a beautiful guesthouse and several private casitas. A stay here might include vineyard tours, tastings, gourmet meals with wine pairings and excursions to other wineries in the Apalta region.
8. Awasi Atacama
The exceptionally exclusive Awasi Atacama is just as outstanding as its natural surroundings – which is saying something, considering it’s located in the driest place on earth. Set in the remote outpost of San Pedro de Atacama, this lodge is the ideal gateway to the Atacama Desert.
An all-inclusive stay at Awasi Atacama will give you access to your own private guide and 4WD vehicle, a wide array of personalised experiences, delicious cuisine at the open-air restaurant, a peaceful outdoor pool and of course your lovely suite and private patio. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for remote travel.
9. The Singular Patagonia
Another of the top hotels in Torres del Paine, The Singular Patagonia is just that: singular. Housed inside a historic factory that’s been fully refurbished, it strikes a careful balance between minimalistic industrial style and plush vintage luxury.
The hotel’s location sets it apart as well; located right next to the Señoret Channel, it gives guests privileged access to the most far-flung corners of Chilean Patagonia. The Singular even has two high-speed boats for guided excursions through the glacial fjords.
10. VIK Chile
VIK Chile is an icon of opulence in the Chilean wine regions, with a well-earned reputation as one of the chicest boutique hotels in Chile. The choice between staying in one of its avant-garde suites or glass-walled Puro VIK bungalows isn’t easy, but you really can’t go wrong.
The best time to visit Chile’s wine regions is during the autumn harvest (March–April) and the hotel’s panoramic views are especially impressive when the trees are ablaze with fall colours. Vineyard visits are a given, but you can also go trekking, mountain biking or horse riding in the idyllic Colchagua Valley.
Whatever you want from your adventure in Chile, our travel designers are ready to help: