Refugia Chiloe

Chilean designers collaborated with local craftspeople to build the hotel in the image of traditional 'palafitos' (fishermen's houses). The lounge enjoys views of the bay through wall-to-wall glass while being kept toasty by a fireplace and wool blankets; and you'll find a number of alfresco lounges too. The farm-to-table restaurant uses ingredients from the local farmers and fishermen to whip up tasty Chilean dishes, including 'curanto,' a mix of meats, sausages, choritos and potatoes slowly cooked on hot rocks. The spa is superb with two heated infinity pools (one outdoors), a sauna and wide menu of treatments. After a day of exploring, head to the bar for their signature Chilean Pisco with Ulmo honey.

Designed with locally-sourced wood and neutral tones, the rooms are warming and homely. The sumptuous beds are kept cosy with wool blankets and the sitting areas are decorated with locally-crafted furniture and fabrics - you'll even find hand-knitted slippers. Large windows look out at the bay or misty Pullao Wetlands - it's worth sleeping with the blinds open so you wake up to that view. The bathrooms are stylish with natural motifs, rainfall showers and deep, soaking tubs.

The hotel offers a plethora of guided adventures across the island, whether it's riding horseback along a deserted beach, trekking through the wild Tantauco Park or kayaking through the Pullao Marsh to spot anything from black-necked swans to flamingos. Enjoy a sailing trip in the hotel's private yacht, stopping at the beautiful Chelin Island, and visit the famous Mercado Yumbel in Castro. You'll discover history, wildlife and scenery worth a thousand words whether you explore on foot, bicycle or boat.