A collection of bucolic wooden cabins on the shore of Lago General Carrera, Mallin Colorado is as eco-minded as they come. Built sustainably from native woods and all on stilts, the flora grows uninterrupted underneath you - and don't be surprised if a horse wanders up to your veranda. The hotel's location in the Southern Carretera Austral of Patagonia receives an unusual (and very welcome) amount of sun, and remains fairly free of tourists. Explore this surreal setting on foot or horseback, where you'll soak up views of serene lakes, glaciers and waterfalls, as your guide shares his expert knowledge.
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Built in the same honey-coloured wood with vast windows overlooking the lake, forests and fields, the Club House holds the reception and lounge where you'll chat with your guides about the following day's excursions around the stone fireplace. The dining area serves a hearty breakfast and dinner, both made with locally-sourced ingredients - and accompanied with a selection of wine in the evening. The lodge also boasts an authentic 'Quincho', where you'll be treated to succulent lamb roasted over an open fire.
The lodge has a variety of rooms (that have less of a 'remote' feel) as well as cabins, all built to fit in with their environment. Inside, there are leather couches, authentic tapestries and tree-trunk tables atop finely-woven rugs, and outside, a private terrace. Cabins range in size, the smallest with space for three and the largest accommodating up to seven people; these ones also have small dining areas. All are warmed by a wood fire (knitted booties are provided too) and the en-suite bathrooms feature a whirlpool tub.
You'll definitely want to stay for three days or more in order to experience this far-flung destination to the fullest. Head down to the private lake beach for a dip, or explore various on-site trails on horseback rides or hikes (accompanied by Mona, the adventure dog). Venture further afield with your guide, soaking up views of stunning lakes, the Cordon Contreras glaciers and rushing La Nutria Waterfall. You could also sail along Leones River to see its impressive glacier wall, go rafting on the Baker River and visit the surreal Marble Cathedral.
Feeling totally cut-off from everyday life, whether it's cosied up in your cabin or hiking through ancient marble caves.
If you're a family or travelling in a group and looking for total seclusion from other guests, book the Casa Lenga which has six rooms and a large terrace.
There is zero internet service or TVs at the lodge for a true digital detox. Definitely don't expect to send any emails!
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Mallin Colorado Ecolodge can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Chile trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Chile trips featuring Mallin Colorado Ecolodge or get advice and suggestions from one of our Chile specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Mallin Colorado Ecolodge start from around $110, or US$110, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
A show-stopping passage where nature rules, wild and beautiful, and humans are rare.
