Central Andes and wine valleys

Just south of Santiago are Chile’s famous wine valleys, where Mediterranean temperatures and ideal soils have been used to grow wine grapes, which were originally brought over from Europe, since the Colonial period and have led to the emergence of world class wines. Experts and sommeliers are on hand at most local wineries to guide you through the characteristics of these fine wines.

Alternatively, an hour’s drive south-east takes you into the impressive Cajón del Maipo in the central Andes, a majestic river valley dominated by towering Andean peaks and raging rivers. A popular weekend retreat, the valley is dotted with small, sleepy villages and offers everything from hiking and climbing to riding, rafting and kayaking. Further east are several ski resorts (the season runs from June to early October).

Our preferred accommodation

Casa Real

Country hotel - Alto Jahuel
An elegant small hotel, just over an hour's drive south of the capital, on the estate of the famous Santa Rita vineyard. The main building dates back to 1883, there are 70 acres of beautifully maintained gardens designed by Guillermo Renner, two swimming pools, tennis courts and gym. There is also the Museo Andino, which is full of vintage textiles and artefacts from Easter Island.
Casablanca BCW

Country hotel - Lagunillas
A charming small hotel in the town of Lagunillas, just over an hour west of Santiago and 30 minutes from Valparaiso. The original building dates back to the late 18th/early 19th century and has been beautifully renovated maintaining many original features. There is a restaurant, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, two hot-tubs and a sauna.
Clos Apalta Residence

Country hotel - Colchagua Valley
A small, stylish property next to the Clos Apalta winery about 2½ hours south of Santiago. The dining and living rooms are in the main residence overlooking a pool, and with wonderful views across the estate, which runs to 650 hectares. Previously known as Lapostolle Residence.
Hotel Santa Cruz Plaza

City hotel - Santa Cruz
A 3 hour drive south of Santiago, in the centre of Santa Cruz, this hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the Colchagua wine valley. The Colchagua museum (the largest private museum in Latin America) is behind the hotel.
La Casona de Matetic

Country hotel - San Antonio valley
La Casona is set in a colonial building with a reading/living room, pool table, fireplace and honesty bar. There is a lovely pool with beautiful gardens and views of the vineyards. There is an excellent restaurant, also open to non-guests. It is 100km west of Santiago.
Lodge Andino

Lodge/Hosteria - Cajón del Maipo
A delightful family run lodge surrounded by walnut plantations right at the end of the Cajón del Maipo. Perched at the foot of the mountains, Lodge Andino prides itself on service and specialises in excursions into the surrounding Andes. At the heart of the lodge is the original colonial style villa that houses the living and dining room while patio doors open onto the pool and spacious gardens. Other facilities include a hot tub and shaded hammock area and each evening, weather permitting, guests gather at the terrace for an outdoor asado.