If wine, food, and stunning landscapes are on your travel wish list, Chile’s wine regions are calling. Recently, Victoria Starr explored Chile with DMC Vivaterra, immersing herself in vineyards, boutique hotels, and some of the country’s most celebrated wineries. Here’s her insider guide for travelers seeking a luxurious, immersive wine and culinary experience.
Starting in Santiago
Victoria’s journey began in Santiago, Chile’s bustling capital. For a short stay, she recommends The Singular, a small boutique hotel nestled in a quiet barrio, perfect for acclimating while being within walking distance to local restaurants, parks, and museums. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the breakfast and service were highlights.
For travelers who prefer modern luxury, the Ritz-Carlton Santiago is another excellent option. Located about 20 minutes from the historic district in a newly developed area, it offers contemporary shops, fine dining, and access to the MUT shopping area, which Victoria found particularly enjoyable.
However, if your focus is the wine country itself, Victoria suggests skipping Santiago entirely and heading straight to one of the region’s top hotels: Las Majadasa, a member of Leading Hotels of the World.
Las Majadasa: Modern Luxury in a Historic Setting
Set in a 16th-century park with a 20th-century palace, Las Majadasa is strikingly modern and beautifully designed. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of expansive gardens. The on-site restaurant serves exquisite local cuisine, and the newly opened wine bar and tavern provides a perfect late-night spot.
Wine lovers will be thrilled with the curated experiences here, including tastings with a sommelier. Las Majadasa’s proximity to the Maipo Valley means access to prestigious wineries such as Concha y Toro, where visitors can tour gardens, vineyards, and even the summer home of Don Melchor, plus create their own wine blends.
Hotel Casa Real at Santa Rita Winery: Boutique Charm
For a more intimate, boutique experience, Victoria recommends Hotel Casa Real, located on the Santa Rita Estate. Ranked by Condé Nast Traveler as the sixth-best hotel in South America, this former summerhouse is set within a 40-hectare French-designed park.
Guests can enjoy the on-site winery, two restaurants (one public, one exclusive to hotel guests), and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking lush gardens. Victoria highlights the feeling of staying at a friend’s home: wine tastings in parlor rooms followed by dinner in the intimate dining area create a welcoming and authentic experience.
From Casa Real, travelers can easily access the Colchagua Valley, including Viu Manent, and enjoy scenic horse-drawn carriage rides to wineries. The highlight for Victoria was Vina Montes, with its verdant vineyards, wildflowers, and inspiring winemakers. After a day of tasting, a meal at Francis Mallmann’s Fuegos de Apalta offered culinary perfection, beautiful modern architecture, grilled dishes for carnivores, and ample vegetarian options. Clos de Luz, a family-run winery in Almahue Valley, rounded out the Chilean wine experience.
Vik Chile: Architectural Marvel at the Foothills of the Andes
Victoria’s next stop was Vik Chile, located in Cachapoal Valley along the Andes foothills. Spanning 4,300 hectares, Vik Chile boasts unique architecture, artful design, eco-conscious practices, and breathtaking 360-degree views.
While Victoria noted that some rooms could use a refresh, the public spaces, including the restaurant and pool area, were stunning. The individually decorated rooms feature avant-garde bathtubs and floor-to-ceiling windows framing incredible natural light and mountain vistas.
The culinary offerings are equally impressive. Victoria raved about the four-course tasting menu and a generous breakfast, making this hotel ideal for a three-night stay to fully enjoy the dramatic setting. Travelers seeking the ultimate Chilean wine country experience will appreciate Vik Chile’s blend of art, architecture, and nature.
Victoria’s Top Recommendations for Travelers:
- Focus on wine country first: Skip long stays in Santiago unless you’re drawn to urban exploration.
- Las Majadasa for modern elegance with historic charm and close proximity to Maipo Valley wineries.
- Hotel Casa Real for a boutique, intimate experience with lush gardens and easy access to Colchagua Valley.
- Vik Chile for a multi-day stay to fully appreciate architecture, design, and Andean views.
Wine experiences not to miss: Concha y Toro, Vina Montes, Francis Mallmann’s Fuegos de Apalta, and Clos de Luz.
Chile’s wine regions offer a remarkable mix of luxury, authenticity, and breathtaking landscapes. Victoria’s journey demonstrates that thoughtful accommodations paired with immersive winery experiences create the perfect combination for travelers looking to sip, savor, and explore in style.