Get surprised by these travel tips for Chile

The Aysén region lies between the Lake District and the Chilean part of Patagonia. Until 1976 this was a completely unexplored and impenetrable area. In that year, dictator Pinochet decided to build Ruta 7, better known as the Carretera Austral, because he feared that the few Chileans who lived in this area would connect with the Argentines, because the Aysén region was easier to reach from Argentina. The Carretera Austral is now over 1,200 kilometres long and 60% is still unpaved. Without a doubt the Carretera Austral is one of the most beautiful car routes in the world. Read more >

Valparaiso is a picturesque harbour town more than 100 kilometres from the Chilean capital Santiago. The city is built on steep hills that seem to disappear into the Pacific Ocean. Characteristic for the city are the colourful houses. Before the opening of the Panama Canal, it was the most important maritime destination on the Pacific coastline. Also special here are the 16 cable lifts that connect parts of the city with each other.

Futangue is a private nature reserve, with an impenetrable temperate rainforest made up of plant and tree species found nowhere else in the world. The nature reserve is located in the Chilean Lake District. Hidden in this nature reserve lies the beautiful Fugangue lodge. The accommodation fits perfectly within the surroundings, has an excellent spa and offers breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls. Read more >

In the special Aysén region you can visit the Cuevas de Marmol. This is a rock formation of marble surrounded by the turquoise waters of the lake. The tunnels and caves were created over a period of more than 6,000 years, due to the waves that keep splashing against the marble rocks. The blue colour is almost unreal.

A delicious fresh and sour cocktail with a thick layer of foam. Between Chile and Peru the origin of the Pisco Sour has been under discussion for years. Whether it comes from Chile or Peru, the Chilean Pisco Sour cannot be missed on a terrace in the sun. Also in Europe we will spot the Pisco Sour more and more often, because trend watchers believe that the drink is going to gain popularity.

Characteristic of the Chiloé peninsula are the completely wooden churches. Together with some churches from Scandinavia, Germany, the United States and the cathedral in Paramaribo, they are among the only remaining full wooden churches from the 18th century. The cathedral in Castro, the capital of Chiloé, is a UNESCO world heritage site.

The best way to discover the mystical island of Chiloé is to stay at the stylish Tierra Chiloé lodge. When staying at this place, you will want for nothing. The accommodation is beautifully designed, using a lot of wood and local elements. The lodge offers a so-called all-in concept, which also includes all possible excursions. Chiloé is actually hardly visited by tourists and that is actually sad. On Chiloé it seems as if you are going 50 years back in time. Life continues at a quieter pace than on the mainland. Nature is amazingly beautiful, so the national parks Chiloé and Tantauco are an absolute must.