Accommodation
Tierra ChiloeChiloe Island, Chile
Tierra Chiloe is an architecturally striking eco-lodge situated on a hill on Chiloe, Chile’s second largest island just off the coast of Northern Patagonia.
Overlooking the islands of the southern archipelago and with the Andes behind the hotel in the distance, the Pacific is on display from all the 12 upper floor guest rooms.
As spectacular as its views are, they do not take away from the fact that the Tierra Chiloe offers a genuinely welcoming and cosy environment, mixed with all the chic comforts you would expect from an excellent luxury lodge. Its sustainable geometric design, reflecting the island’s traditional “palafitos” (picturesque timber houses on stilts), is constructed from native woods while its interiors are replete with traditional local crafts such as wools, hand-made textiles, basketry and charming figurines. After a bracing and windswept walk, the comforts of the reading room and fireplace lounge are particularly welcome!
All guest rooms have bathrooms with showers and Jacuzzi tubs as well as a telephone, hairdyer and safe. Food and drinks are all included and served in a comfortable dining room a half level above the living area while the chef’s ever-changing menu makes inventive use of local ingredients. A particular highlight is the Tierra Chiloe’s version of the island’s famed curanto, a clam-bake-style platter of shellfish, smoked pork, and potato pancakes.
A wide variety of excursions are available, allowing guests to explore the island by on foot, horse, bike and kayak. Guests can visit World Heritage churches, famous for their curved wooden roof tiles and striking design, wander and sample the textiles and fresh fish of local markets or, a little further afield, observe the nature of nearby Pullao wetlands, home to a variety of migratory birds.
A real treat is the lodge’s exclusive, traditional vessel, “Williche”, hand-made out of wood by local artisans using traditional island techniques. You can enjoy day-long voyages to nearby but scarcely populated islands, fiords and canals, anchoring for lunch and refreshment at stunning natural harbours.