Sitting on the wonderfully-named Cerro Alegre (meaning 'Cheerful Hill'), Casa Higueras began as a 1920s mansion, which was restored and upgraded to fit the growing cosmopolitan changes in Valpariaso. Casa Higueras is five storeys of polished rooms, breezy balconies and interiors decorated with flowering orchids, vintage furnishings and luxury amenities. Once a stop-over port for 19th-century ships, Valpariaso was honoured as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ripe with history and a deep appreciation for the arts. And the best way to experience the city in its renaissance? Undoubtedly on foot, admiring the colourful merchant houses and street art that lines the streets at your leisure.
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Set in terraced Mediterranean-style gardens, which lead to a private infinity pool and semi open-air Jacuzzi, Casa Higueras strikes a grand figure. Head to the terrace for tasty breakfast spreads and, later, pre-dinner cocktails as the harbour quietens (and the best view). Decorated in black-and-white photos of Valparaiso and polished oak, the stylish Montealegre Restaurant serves a la carte menus, featuring Chilean seafood like the delicious crab cannelloni and fish curry - or more international fare - alongside a range of regional wines. The next door salon can be booked for private celebrations.
The rooms were designed to be as comfortable as possible with noise-reducing windows, double-sheeted beds and vaulted ceilings for added space. The colour schemes vary from cream to blue and olive green but each has a touch of old-world elegance. The bathrooms are elegant with Italian fixtures, large showers, and most have a freestanding or sunken tub too. The suites are the largest and have private terraces sporting sun loungers and a dining table. Each room also has WiFi.
Valpariaso has a long and fascinating naval history, which you can delve into at the Maritime Museum, the Lord Cochrane Museum of the Sea, or the unique La Sebastiana (one of three homes built by famous Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda). For a little adventure, ride the century-old El Peral funicular to the harbour for a stroll and a snack - try the traditional Chorrillana, French fries topped with steak, onion and eggs. And don't miss a walk through the Museum of the Open Sky, marked by 20 outdoor murals painted by Chile's top artists, which are constantly added to.
Casa Higueras' uber-stylish interiors, offering a taste of Valpariaso's heritage and burgeoning revival.
There are a number of interconnecting rooms, one of which features a four-poster bed and sunken tub and shares an interior patio with a waterfall wall feature. Families, keep in mind that children have to be 12 or older.
While Valpariaso is slowly getting its shine back after years of neglect, the city is by no means perfect, and the dining terrace faces a shabby hillside.
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