Feb 26 2010
Nature, Adventure and Relaxation in Torres del Paine
Torres del Paine National Park is perhaps one of Chile’s most stunning national parks, and a must-see for any traveler to Chile. Located at the southernmost tip of one of the world’s longest countries, Torres del Paine is a paradise for outdoor lovers, hikers and photographers.
I was in Torres del Paine in December 2009 to explore some luxury properties within the park, experience the beautiful vistas and hike some of the legendary trails. It was, quite simply, the trip of a lifetime.
The experience begins in Punta Arenas with a five-six hour drive past the Straits of Magellan, through flat steppe-land, and finally into the foothills of the mountains. This region of Chile is the only area where the Andes are to the west. En route are quaint villages to stop for a quick snack, as well as the famed Milodon Cave, where a giant sloth fossil was found.
The road to the park turns to gravel after Puerto Natales and the stunning vistas across Last Hope Sound. The park itself is nearly 600,000 acres, and filled with lakes, rivers, glaciers, valleys, and mountains to explore by foot, boat, horseback or car (although we recommend by foot to truly experience the area’s beauty). Be prepared for some intense days of hiking, though, if you’re traveling by foot! I did the Base of the Towers hike, a 22 km trek from Hosteria Las Torres to the Base of the Towers. Much of the initial trek is uphill, but luckily there are lovely views of Almirante Nieto, forests, waterfalls, wildflowers, with the river down below. The hike is approximately six hours for fast movers, although that number can increase with rest stops, a lunch stop, and time spent enjoying the views at the end.
I arrived to the end point after 11 km and three hours of hot hiking, wondering if the trip was worth it. It was. I won’t spoil the end result, but suffice to say that coming over the last lip of boulders blocking the final view is breathtaking.
Another popular excursion is the navigation to Grey Glacier, which is a fun three hours for a day off from physical activity. The captain gets as close as possible to the glacier, and lucky passengers can spot the glacier calve huge chunks. For the more intrepid, there is a full day hike to the glacier, which I didn’t have a chance to do, but have heard it’s spectacular.
Just outside the park (literally 20 minutes to the entrance) is Patagonia Camp, a collection of luxury yurts with views over the immense Lake Toro, with the Paine Massif in the distance. The yurts are quite possibly one of the most romantic ways to experience Torres del Paine – with the sound of the wind in the evening (they provide earplugs for light sleepers), the privacy of individual yurts scattered through Patagonia forest, and the sense of peace and isolation are ideal for couples. Meals are delicious, and the camp often grills up cordero patagonico (Patagonian lamb) for a tasty local feast. Daily excursions with bilingual guides are arranged each evening, with guests choosing from a variety of full and half day trips into the park. And, after a long day of hiking, enjoy a massage at the camp, followed by a glass of Chilean wine paired with tasty appetizers in the dining room. Driving distances from excursions like Grey Glacier, French Valley and Base of the Towers ranges from 45-60 minutes.
Inside the park, with one of the most privileged locations, is Explora. The majority of the rooms have views of the Massif. Sumptuous hydromassage baths are ideal for relaxing after a full day, as is the full service spa and hot tubs overlooking one of the park’s rivers. Excursions are arranged in much the same fashion as at Patagonia Camp. Explora is a great option for upscale travelers interested in being right inside the park, and equidistant from most major excursions (approximately 45 minutes maximum).
On the opposite end of the park from Patagonia Camp is Estancia Cerro Guido, a traditional estancia (ranch) that is still working. You’ll stay in the buildings where the family and management lived (updated, of course) and have a chance to experience life on the ranch! This could include watching sheep shearing in the huge shed, corraling wild horses, collecting cattle, and various other daily tasks. It’s a great way to mix the natural wonders of the region with the cultural experience of the locals who have lived here for hundreds of years. The ride from the estancia to the park is also the best place to get close to troops of guanaco (wild relative of the llama).
After your trip, it’s a nice idea to spend a night in Puerto Natales, where boutique hotels combine style and service with views over Last Hope Sound – and they all have hot tubs and generally offer spa services for a great way to unwind and soothe sore muscles.
Contact us for more information on putting together your dream Torres del Paine trip, and on combining this destination with other places throughout Chile like the Atacama Desert, Easter Island, central coast, and more!
