Chiloe Island, Chile: travel expert reviews latest trip in Q&A

Chiloe

Alan escaped the office for a two week trip to Chile, which involved much pampering, lots of action and checking out Tierra Chiloe Hotel on Chile’s beautiful, off the beaten track island of Chiloe. We’ve asked him about his stay at the hotel, and he couldn’t stop gushing…

Where have you just been?

I have just been to Chile where the main purpose of my trip was to check out the recently extended Tierra Chiloe hotel near Castro on Chiloe Island.

The hotel offers a luxury all inclusive adventure experience, off the beaten track  yet  with a responsible travel focus on sustainable and local needs. Say no more, I signed up in a flash to go and check it out.

What did you see and do?

The million dollar question! I went for 5 days/ 4 nights which meant that  I had one afternoon of set  activities and then 3 full days to dedicate to my choice from a set menu of adventures.

I am by nature a planner and love to have everything  pre-organised. On arrival to the hotel I had a meeting with the head of excursions – and my agenda was set. I decided that on this magical island I would dedicate one day to the land, one to culture and one to the sea.

First up was a full day trek from Duhatao to Chepu . It was classed as difficult but mainly so because of the duration. We trekked 6km along the coast,  over five hills, through temperate forest and along cliff tops to finish with a 3km walk along a pristine beach –  where we were picked up by Don Alfonso for the final stretch by boat on a river through a sunken  forest.

The next day I visited the markets and sight of Castro,  the Island’s colourful capital, and in the afternoon I added a visit to the markets of Dalcahue.

On day three we set off on the hotel’s boat, the Williche, for a day of sailing the seas. Visits to islands included visiting world heritage churches (climbing their bell towers), as well as options of kayaking and trekking.

To finish it off we had full moon horse ride – simply wonderful.

In 20 words, describe your favourite…

Place:  Before breakfast I would head to the outdoor heated infinity pool (22 Celsius) and look down on the beach bird wetlands.

Experience: Walking from Duhatao to Chepu – we never came across anyone else! The scenery was mine and mine alone.

Excursion: The night ride with a full moon – something out of this world.

Who would love this trip?

Anyone looking for an experience off the beaten track while still being well looked after  – not to say pampered.

Essentials to bring?

Layers and waterproofs, sunscreen and hat.

Best place for….

… a Ulmo Pisco Sour, and enjoying excellent food!

Advice or top tips?

The weather can be variable – I was lucky and the sun shone every day, but you do need to have an “open” weather mind!

Holiday in a nutshell?

Luxury adventure off the beaten track. Wow.

Where to find out more?

Contact Alan at alan@andeantrails.co.uk