EL CALAFATE, EL CHALTEN & SOUTHERN PATAGONIA
Giant glaciers, abundant wildlife and splendid hiking trails
True wilderness is seldom as magnificent as the landscapes of El Calafate and El Chalten in southern Patagonia. The picturesque mix of vibrant blue waters, jagged peaks and colourful flora are what make this area of the world so unforgettable, and indeed inspire many to return again and again. Split between Argentina and Chile, this vast area is home to the elusive puma, offers world class fly fishing and boasts multiple glaciers – all whilst maintaining a strong cultural heritage. Visitors to this region will be left speechless by the overwhelming beauty of Los Glaciers National Park, awed by the iceberg calving glaciers and captivated by the hospitality of the people who live here. Although the weather can be extreme, luxury eco lodges, rustic estancias and spa hotels provide a welcoming base from which to explore this trekker’s paradise. On the Argentinian side, tourists flock to El Calafate – a small and quaint town which is the base for exploring the mighty Perito Moreno glacier. This giant wall of white and blue peaks regularly creaks and groans as it deposits enormous chunks of ice into the waters below. Nearby, El Chalten offers hiking trails of varying difficulty around Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitzroy. The verdant colours of the scenery and the frequent sightings of Andean condors make this biodiverse habitat a pleasure to explore. A welcoming sight after a full day of exploration is the many cosy pubs and restaurants selling hearty meals and full bodied red wines. Both of these small town are an essential destination for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors, and with more and more luxurious lodges appearing, Patagonia is a great addition to any bespoke holiday.
WHERE TO STAY
Our favourite luxury hotels
EOLO
A stylish and exclusive hotel situated within a vast estancia of 4,000 hectares on the Argentine Patagonian steppe, surrounded by a unique stage of spectacular nature. Close to the Glacier National Park and El Calafate, EOLO enjoys a strategic location to explore the area. The 17 spacious suites offer chic and elegant accommodation while reflecting the style of ancient Patagonian estancias. Floor to ceiling windows offer impressive views to the surrounding steppe, lakes and mountains.
Explora El Chalten
This luxurious all-inclusive lodge offers adventure and comfort in abundance. The rooms are stylish and spacious and boast amazing views towards the Electrico Valley, the Marconi Glacier, and the surrounding mountain range. There is no Wi-Fi or TV available in the rooms as the lodge is designed to help you switch off. Wi-Fi is available in the common areas of the hotel for those who need to be connected during their trip. There is a superb restaurant where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served, a sauna and a spa for guests to indulge in and unwind after days out hiking.
Estancia Cristina
A stunning property located in one of the most beautiful parts of Argentina. Founded in 1914 by an English family, today, the owners strive to maintain the traditions and origins of this thriving farm. Located on the shores of Lake Argentino, close to Upsala glacier in Los Glacieres National Park, this is a place of pure isolation and beauty. The lodge is comprised of 20 relatively simple rooms set in 5 cabins. All are decorated in an elegant, rustic style and offer spectacular view across the Patagonian steppes to the mountains.
Aguas Arriba
An exclusive and tranquil lodge offering complete privacy for its guests, complete with majestic views of the lake and surrounding Andes Mountains, including the north face of Mount Fitzroy and the Vespignani Glacier. The warm and rustic lodge is a wonderful base for enjoying the many activities that this region offers. Trails that haven´t been explored, rivers, glaciers, forest and lakes provide an ideal place to start a variety of hikes, and the fly fishing here is world class. There are just 6 exclusive rooms at this property, each with stunning views.
Estancia Nibepo Aike
A delightful, family run estancia in beautiful Patagonia. Built by a Croatian settler over 100 years ago, it has survived four generations and is still run by the same family who breeds Hereford cattle. Each of the ten rooms is decorated in an elegant, Patagonian style with crisp, bright colours that bend perfectly with the estancia’s rustic style. One of the main attractions of this area is the fabulous Perito Moreno glacier which guests can visit from the estancia. Guests can enjoy horseback riding and trekking as well as learning the skills during a day on the ranch.
Estancia Helsingfors
A luxury lodge set in magnificent Patagonian surroundings. Surrounded by lush woodland and in the heart of Los Glacieres National Park, this is the perfect place to experience Patagonia in luxury. The lodge only has 9 rooms, ensuring guests always receive personal and individual service. Decorated with elegant simplicity and perfectly blending Patagonian styles and traditions, each offers spectacular views. The restaurant serves fine Patagonian cuisines, using lamb and delicious fresh trout as two specialties.
Patagonia Jeep Safari
Explore Patagonia in a private Jeep safari, one of the best ways to explore this beautiful region. Choose from having a guide drive your chosen route, or drive yourself through beautiful scenery, making as many stops and detours as you wish. The Jeeps that we provide are top of the range, with equipment that allows you to explore independently, including radios, binoculars, GPS Garmin and GPS Ranger devices.
Cruceros Marpatag
For the chance to sail the same waters as some of the first Patagonian settlers and experience the awe and majesty of Patagonia, MarPatag cruises offers excellent and luxurious service. The 3 day Spirit of the Glaciers takes guests through the stunning landscape, visiting various glaciers with the chance for a hike through the Andean-Patagonian forest. The full day Glacier Gourmet takes guests across Lake Argentino, enjoying fine gourmet cuisine and a stop for a guided hike.