SOUTH AMERICAN ADVENTURE – JANUARY 2020

SOUTH AMERICAN ADVENTURE – JANUARY 2020

Little did we realise when we set off on our adventure to Chile and Argentina how the world was about to change and how lucky we were to experience this fabulous destination without any interruption to our travels. I am certain that one day soon the world will open up again as travel and discovery is an integral part of who we are, and even today, the way the tourism industry is adapting to the ‘new normal’ is encouraging. Who knows, maybe now that we have been deprived of our freedom to travel the globe for a few months, we will appreciate all the different cultures, sights, destinations and traditions just that little bit more.

It was 22nd January when we set off for Chile, landing in Santiago and heading straight onto the winelands. Our first stop was the Clos Apalta Residence in the Colchagua Valley. There are only four casitas and it is more like a home away from home than a hotel, but with the most amazing food, wine and service. We had three days to unwind and to learn all about the region and the wine production. The vines arrived from France in the 1830’s and having the protection of the Andes on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, they flourished in the perfect climate. They say Lapostolle wine is French in essence and Chilean by birth. Naturally we enjoyed some wine tasting along the way together with perfect South American hospitality.

Our next stop was The Atacama Desert where we stayed at Awasi. Situated in San Pedro de Atacama it is a stone’s throw from the centre of town providing luxury accommodation, first class food and daily adventures. I cannot sum up in a few words how fascinating the Atacama is – you really have to go and see for yourselves. From geysers, pink flamingos, salt plains, snow, lakes, picnics and wildlife – we had our own private guide who tailor made our excursions to suit our interests. Please see photos …………….it was heaven.

Back to Santiago for a couple of nights to learn about this interesting city. We stayed at Le Reve Boutique Hotel perfectly situated for sightseeing and shopping. We had a full day to discover all the sights from the local fish, fruit and vegetable markets to La Moneda Palace, Plaza de Armas, San Crostobal Hill and Club Hipico , Chile’s oldest race course. From Santiago we flew South to Patagonia on the next stage of our adventure.

Here we stayed, once again, at Awasi – set in the middle of Torres del Paine National Park. There are just 12 villas each boasting a comfortable living area with wood-burning stove, a hot tub and memorable views across the magnificent Torres glacial lakes and vast steppes. Both Awasi properties are members of the Relais & Chateaux group and, once again, we could choose from a list of excursions. Each villa has a 4 x4 vehicle and guide to explore the Chilean Patagonia. We had a couple of amazing days, hiking, cycling, horse riding (I had never been on a horse before but with the help of a very attractive gaucho found myself galloping along beside him)! Picnics appeared out of nowhere and our guide Michelle, could not have been more friendly or accommodating. Dinner each evening was in the main lodge where the views over the Chilean landscape were breathtaking.

Sadly we had to move on from Patagonia – our next stop being Punta Areanas where we were to board the Stella Australis Cruise – our home for the next four nights. Again, words cannot do justice to this experience, the sights we saw from glaciers to penguins, the Pia Glacier and Glacier Alley, Wulaia Bay and Cape Horn. All excursions in the zodiacs were managed professionally, the cabin was a delight, the whole trip was memorable – we even managed to not only land on Cape Horn, but also to sail round – normally weather conditions are such that this is not possible. Again please see photos – we had such an amazing time on the Australis.

Next stop Ushuaia – the most southernmost city. We stopped here for one night only enjoying the views and unique scenery of this remote region. Our hotel was Arakur Resort and Spa set above Ushuaia affording remarkable views of the’end of the world’. Next stop Buenos Aires.

On arrival we were whisked off to The Park Hyatt hotel housed in one of the beautiful French-style mansions that characterized the Buenos Aires of the Belle Epoque, it is a wonderful place to stay and enjoy the city at its best. We enjoyed a couple of days here taking in all the sights, the Recoleta Cemetery where Eva Perron is buried, La Boca where the Italian immigrants settled last century with multicolour houses and lively atmosphere, the famous Colon Opera House, the Plaza de Mayo etc. and, yes, we went to a Tango show! After Buenos Aires it was off to Iguazu Falls where we stayed at the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas on the Argentinian/Brazilian border. The Falls are stunning, but busy, you have to pick your time to visit carefully – but what a sight!

Our final destination was La Bamba de Areco on the outskirts of Buenos Aires. Two nights relaxation before our return to the real world. It is set in the heart of the pampa, an early 19th century estancia that emanates charm and character. The colonial style buildings have been tastefully converted into a luxury hotel infused with the gaucho spirit. There is a swimming pool, horse carriage rides, bicycle rides and horse rides to be enjoyed. We just relaxed for our last day and enjoyed the atmosphere of the hotel and the scenery, knowing it was the last day of what was to prove a memorable holiday.

Our international flights were with BA ; our internal flights, all of which worked like clockwork were with Latam and the whole trip was put together with the help of Marian Cadman at ITC Luxury Travel and, of course, myself at Spirit Away Travel. Please feel free to give me a ring if you would like to discuss any element of this holiday – it truly was a trip of a lifetime.
Caroline