Patagonia is one of those bucket list destinations that anyone with even a small desire for adventure or love of the great outdoors should visit at least once in their lives. It covers vast, varied and dramatic landscapes, from fjords, lakes and glaciers to rainforests, deserts and grasslands. When many people think of Patagonia, they think exclusively of Argentina, but that would be to miss out — 10% of the region is in fact in Southern Chile (it’s here that you’ll find the jaw-dropping Torres del Paine National Park). Accommodation options across Patagonia are as varied as the scenery. For those with very deep pockets there are some unbelievable luxury properties in the remotest locations, but for those on a regular budget there are plenty of comfortable lodges and great little family friendly hotels that offer affordable rates. Design-conscious travellers will not be disappointed either, there are some seriously chic pads down here! We have scoured the region and selected our pick of the best hotels in Patagonia. To make it easier for you, we’ve grouped them into six geographical regions, and our advice is not to try to cover too much ground in one go (the distances between areas can be huge); you can always come back again!
San Carlos de Bariloche, in the province of Rio Negro in the foothills of the Andes, is at the heart of Argentina's lake district. Surrounded by the Nahuel Huapi National Park, this region, close to the Chilean border, is sometimes referred to as the 'garden of Patagonia' for its spectacular greenery, beautiful lakes, and dramatic mountain scenery. Below we have highlighted a few of the amazing places to stay in the region, but for more ideas, check out our full list of recommendations of the best places to stay in Bariloche.
The Lake District in Chile is something of a hidden gem, with a string of lakes nestled in the mountainous Andes, close to the border with Argentina. Inca civilisation never reached here, and it was not finally colonised by the Europeans until the late 19th century - a fact that adds to its sense of remoteness. With lush farmland and dense forest, overlooked by snowcapped volcanoes, this is an area that merits serious consideration if you want to 'get away form it all'. Here are three great places to stay:
While the areas of Patagonia to the west, in the Andes and its foothills, might be famed for their dramatic landscapes, the remote UNESCO heritage Valdes peninsula in eastern Argentina, on the Atlantic ocean, is the number one destination for wildlife in Patagonia, in particular marine mammals. Its nature reserve and surrounding waters is home to an amazing array of marine animals, such as whales, Magellanic penguins, sea lions and elephant seals. We have picked out two great places to base yourself, below. For further options, especially if you want to explore the Patagonian Welsh culture of this region, see the best places to stay in Puerto Madryn.
Los Glaciares National Park is located in the southwest of Santa Cruz Province in Argentina. Comprised of a National Park and a National Reserve, this World Heritage site covers over 600,000 hectares, half of which are glaciers, the most famous of which is the the Perito Moreno Glacier that feeds Lake Argentino. Many of these glaciers are fed by the massive South Patagonian Ice Field, effectively a massive freshwater reservoir.
There are some truly spectacular places to stay in Los Glaciares. For a full range of options, see the best places to stay in Santa Cruz Province, or check out our pick of the bunch below.
30 miles south of Lake Argentino you reach the Chilean border, the other side of which is the Torres del Paine national park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Long considered the 8th wonder of the world, with its towering granite peaks and rugged landscape, it's the perfect destination for a hiking holiday or a peaceful rural retreat. For the full list of great places to stay here, visit the best places to stay in Torres del Paine. Below, we have picked out a couple of favourites.
Uniquely, this area of Patagonia spans both Chile and Argentina.
On the Chilean side, there a number of good places to stay in Punta Arenas. It's actually just across the straits from the island of Tierra del Fuego, but a ferry provides easy access, and it's a great jumping off point for expeditions, as well as those to Antarctica.
On the Argentian side, hotels are clustered around the port of Ushuaia. However, there are two properties a little way out of town that give you direct access to the wild landscape of this end of the earth location.
Bariloche (Peninsula San Pedro)
A chic mountain lodge with epic lake views. Atmospheric rooms mix traditional charm with contemporary style; think beamed ceilings, natural materials and large glass doors leading onto private terraces. Stunning local cuisine is on offer in the traditionally dressed dining room. Perfection.
Bariloche (Lago Gutierrez)
A charming lodge boasting spectacular views across the tranquil lake and jagged mountains. Cosy rooms are traditional in style with Argentine artefacts, exposed stone and plenty of pine. The home-cooked meals are fabulous. A cosy lounge is the ideal place to curl up with a book. Spectacular.
El Calafate (9405 El Calafate)
A remote luxury lodge with an outstanding location. Rooms are simply designed with emphasis given to the surrounding views, admired from enormous windows and terraces. Sample gourmet cuisine in the restaurant and unwind in the fabulous spa. Discover authentic Argentina in serious style.
Bariloche (Playa Bonita)
A luxury property boasting a cliff top location overlooking lake Nahuel Huapi. Secluded suites and lodges are luxurious yet characterful with plenty of pine, private terraces (some with hot tubs) and small kitchenettes. A spoiling spa will ease post activity aches and pains. A glorious rural escape.
Santa Cruz Province (9405 Estancia Cristina)
A secluded lodge boasting epic views of the hanging glaciers and surrounding mountains. Large airy rooms feature bay windows, soft patterning and sink-into beds. Find gourmet regional cuisine accompanied by an excellent wine list. Spend days exploring the national park be it by foot or horse. Bliss.
Santa Cruz Province
A traditional sheep farm turned cosy hotel. Find sash windows, parquet flooring, fireplaces and warm hues throughout. Regional dishes are served in the restaurant. The outstanding location makes this the ideal starting point for exploring the hidden glaciers by horse. An adventurers paradise.
Puerto Varas (Puerto Varas)
Los Caiquenes is situated on Llanquihue lakefront a few miles outside of Puerto Varas. It features cosy, country-style interiors and offers spacious rooms with plenty of wooden influences. Make use of their pool or sit back and enjoy the view from the hot tub. A great place to get away from it all.
Torres del Paine (Patagonia)
A charming ranch boasting an epic location on the edge of the Torres del Paine National Park. Simply dressed rooms feature polished wooden floors, crisp white linen and fireplaces. Find hearty regional fare in the restaurant. The utter remoteness makes this an outdoor adventurer's dream.
Torres del Paine (Porteño Km 74)
A small collection of luxury yurts nestled into the hill overlooking a stunning lake. Simply designed with the their structure beautifully exposed. Views from the rooms are spectacular and the silence intoxicating. The perfect base to return to after a day spent in Torres del Paine. Fabulous.
Puerto Natales
A contemporary hotel that sits beautifully within the epic surrounds. Minimalistic design throughout gives a light airy feel and emphasises the wonderful views. A spoiling spa fulfils all pampering needs and Torres del Paine provides space for endless adventures. A chic rural escape.
Torres del Paine (Patagonia)
A stunning contemporary hotel designed by three of Chile's most renowned architects and situated on the edge of the Torres del Paine. Simply designed rooms feature plenty of wood and glass. A fabulous spa will ease away any aches and pains. A truly unique property ideal for exploring rural Chile.
Villa La Angostura
A chic boutique property boasting spectacular Patagonian views. Eight beautifully designed suites feature soft hues, free standing baths, wooden floors and French doors leading onto large terraces. Boasting an indoor and outdoor pool, spa and billiards room. The regional cuisine is fabulous too.
Ushuaia
This luxury hotel sits on a naturally occurring platform in the Cerro Alarkén nature reserve in Argentina. The contemporary rooms boast comfortable beds, crisp, white linens and panoramic views of the mountains; book a senior suite for living space. Eat at the fine dining restaurant; a unique stay.
Santa Cruz Province (Parque Nacional Los Glaciares)
This luxury lodge is located in the Los Glaciares National Park in the Argentine Patagonia. Homely guestrooms feature wooden floors, plush linens and comfortable beds; book a family room to accommodate children. Relax by the fireplace after a day's trek to the Blue Lagoon; an inviting nature lodge.
Ushuaia
This charming mountain lodge is set in a forest in Ushuaia, next to the Buena Esperanza stream. Choose from a range of private cabins with cosy carpets and homely soft furnishings; book a luxury suite for split-level living space and a hot tub. Have tea and cake at the hotel café; an inviting hotel.
Chubut Province (Península Valdés)
This traditional Patagonian ranch is located on the Valdés Peninsula and has been rated one of the best local lodges. Comfortable guestrooms feature wooden floors, plush throws and heritage furniture, plus beautiful views. Unwind in the cosy living room after a walk; an authentic country retreat.
Petrohue (Parque Nac Vpr)
This charming lodge is located in the Chilean Patagonia. Spacious and bright guestrooms offer panoramic views of Todos los Santos Lake; book a luxury suite for a cosy fireplace. Private cabins are perfect for a family stay. Sample traditional Chilean cuisine in the restaurant; a chic nature retreat.
Punta Arenas (Punta Arenas)
An elegant neoclassical hotel in central Punta Arenas offering plush and spacious rooms. The Pergola Restaurant offers fine local delicacies in a gorgeous setting surrounded by grapevines whilst the Shackleton Bar is the perfect place to relax and boasts an impressive selection of wines.
Llifen (Lago Maihue)
This eco-hotel is situated in the Valdívia Forest on the shores of the Calcurrupe River in south Chile. Accommodation is spread across five self-contained guest lodges; book Casa Chucao for great river views and a terrace hot tub. Take a fishing trip with hotel experts; a charming retreat to nature.
El Chalten
A spectacular property for those who love nature and trekking, with stunning views of the Electric Valley and the Marconi Glacier. Patagonian cuisine with local produce and a spoiling luxury spa greet the weary explorer. A rejuvenating stay for those seeking privacy and silence.
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