SANTIAGO & VALPARAISO
Experience wonderful arts, passionate people, excellent wines and colourful buildings in these beautiful, cultural cities.
A clash of sophistication and eclectic art have made Santiago one of the most exciting cities in South America. It is not unusual to experience free outdoor exhibitions and live dramatic performances, especially around the Plaza de Armas (main square). The murals that cover the walls have been painted by world famous street artists, and injected more than colour into this vivacious capital. The people of Santiago are energetic with a passion for history, which is reflected in the many excellent museums found in the city. Taste the atmosphere for yourself in the lively Barrio Bellavista district, which is full of vibrant bars and chic restaurants. As with all major cities, Santiago is not lacking in choice of luxury hotels, and some of the best boutique hotels in Chile can be found here. Further afield, Santiago is surrounded by snowy mountains, in the foothills of which sit the highly respected vineyards of the central valley wine region. World class wineries are open for visitors to taste the full bodied reds and flavoursome whites in a tranquil and idyllic setting – indeed taking a day trip out to experience this is one of the most popular day trips from the city. Just a couple of hours further out of Santiago lies the coastal city of Valparaiso. Colourful buildings appear to be piled upon one another on the steep cliffs, and a walk through this enticing maze of cobbled alleyways will reveal a cultural explosion. There are many international street artists that call this interesting city home, and their presence doesn’t go unnoticed – a large majority of the streets are decorated with highly skilled, multi-coloured murals. Nearby, there are beaches to relax on where tourists and locals alike can take advantage of the year-round warm weather. The perfect way to experience this little sea side gem is to stay in a luxury hotel on the hillside, from which you can drink in the view over the bay.
WHERE TO STAY
Our favourite luxury hotels
The Singular Santiago
The Singular Santiago is an alluring blend of classic and contemporary, offering modern comforts while exuding the charm of a bygone era. Though the hotel is brand new, your room will have an air of classic comfort.
Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel
Situated in the heart of the bohemian Lastarria district in Santiago, the Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel is ideally located for exploring the capital. The hotel itself dates back to 1927, and the historic town house has been lovingly converted into a charming and unique place to stay.
Luciano K
The Luciano K is a luxury, boutique hotel in the bohemian Lastarria neighbourhood of Santiago. Located opposite Parque Forestal and a few minutes’ walk from numerous sights and restaurants, this is an elegant hotel in one of Santiago’s prime areas. Boutique, art deco and modern blend.
Ritz Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton is a luxury, 5-star hotel in Santiago’s prestigious El Golf district. With all the style associated with the Ritz-Carlton brand, this hotel is a cut above the rest.
Hotel Santiago
Hotel Santiago is a 5-star hotel in the upmarket Las Condes district of Santiago. Offering everything you would expect from a luxury hotel, and more, this is a wonderful option for the capital city.
Hotel Ladera
With fabulous 360° views over the city and surrounding Andes mountains, a rooftop pool plus a contemporary design, the Hotel Ladera is a wonderful choice in the capital of Chile.
The W
The W is a luxury, 5-star hotel 5km from Santiago city centre in the upmarket Las Condes district. This is a modern and sophisticated hotel with a cool and luxurious vibe.
La Casona Hotel & Matetic Vineyard
La Casona Hotel & Matetic Vineyard is a boutique hotel and winery located in an estate within the Casablanca Valley, less than an hour from Santiago Airport. It’s convenient location and family friendly facilities make this an excellent luxury hotel.
The Aubrey
The Aubrey is a luxury, boutique hotel in the Santiago neighbourhood of Bellavista Providencia. The style of the hotel is of the old mansion that it inhabits, with white walls, exposed beams, arches and polished wooden floors.
Le Reve
La Reve is a luxury, boutique hotel in Santiago’s historic Providencia district. Housed in an old mansion, the hotel perfectly blends beautiful French architecture with stylish, modern touches. Distributed over four floors, the décor is classically elegant.
Palacio Astoreca – Valparaiso
The Palacio Astoreca Hotel was fully restored in 2012 and is located in the core of the historical city centre in Valparaiso, the most exclusive point in the natural amphitheatre overlooking the magnificent bay.
Casa Higueras – Valparaiso
In the heart of Cerro Alegre, with a magnificent view of Valparaiso’s bay, is Casa Higueras. This colourful and unique city is a UNESCO World Heritage area, with a fascinating history.
Vik Chile
Located in the middle of the 11000 acre VIK vineyard, Vik Chile is an avant-garde retreat south of Santiago. Just 22 suites, all boasting unique artwork, are available for guests making it an exclusive luxury resort. This stunning hotel is perfectly situated on a hilltop which overlooks the vines, valleys, forests and hills, all graced with a backdrop of the Andes Mountains.
Clos Apalta Residence
Nestled in the beautiful Colchagua valley, surrounded by verdant forest and with views overlooking the vineyards, this is an intimate and elegant hotel and winery which describes itself as ‘French in essence, Chilean by birth’ and this perfectly sums up the style and sophistication and this luxurious wine lodge.