Celebrating the local island traditions and a unique geographical setting with natural ease, Tierra Chiloé a boutique spa Island hotel resort where intrepid adventure vacations are coupled with comfort, seeks to immerse you in the best of this archipelago, which is awash in verdant pastures, dramatic coastline and scenic clifftops.
If you’re planning a trip to the Chilean Lake District to discover its many lakes, waterfalls and volcanoes, it’s also well worth spending a few days exploring the unique and magical Islands of Chiloé.
Only a short ferry ride from the mainland, yet seemingly a world away, this archipelago sits at the southern end of the Lake District, south of Puerto Montt.
Here you can explore its verdant green hills, pristine national parks, small towns with craft markets and UNESCO world heritage churches. Chiloé is great for trekking, horse-riding, bike rides and kayaking amongst other activities.
Take a step back to simpler times at Tierra Chiloé, an eco-luxury spa lodge in Chile, where intrepid adventures are coupled with comfort, sea views and the promise of authentic experiences.
Our passion for the island is rooted in the foundations of Tierra Chiloé, with eco-friendly architecture that makes the most of the island’s changeable climate for heating and ventilation. Made of locally sourced wood and clad in shingles, the exteriors mimic the traditional homes of local fishing communities.
Inside, panoramic windows in the restaurant and living areas allow for uninterrupted Pacific Ocean views, which change constantly as the clouds and light play across the water.
Quintessential island life and sophisticated modern comfort meet hand-in-hand at Tierra Chiloé. Every piece of furniture and decor has a story, as Chilean designers have collaborated with local craftspeople to curate a space which is relaxed and welcoming.
Our team of friendly staff and guides are on hand to help you discover the genuine warmth of the islanders, through our excursions that provide insights into the local traditions and myths.
During your trip to Chile, a visit to Tierra Chiloé Adventure Spa Hotel will restore your soul through an appreciation of the simple things in life that mean so much.
The fastest way to travel to Chiloé Island is by air, whereas the most scenic way is by road with a short ferry ride on the way. Find out how to get to Tierra Chiloé from the Lake District or Santiago. In high season, you can fly from Santiago or Puerto Montt to the Mocopulli Airport in Castro, Chiloé.
Rooms with a View
Each of the 24 guest rooms with a view at Tierra Chiloé Adventure & Spa Hotel offers a deep connection to nature. Some interconnect to make family apartments, and there are also two suites to choose from.
The design and décor of the rooms are inspired by the regional heritage of Chiloé. Hand-crafted furniture and locally woven fabrics are thoughtfully incorporated into each room, a reflection of our bond with the island.
The spotlight is on the surroundings, which are on display through large windows that afford views of the lands and ocean beyond.
Suites
Our generously-sized suites offer the perfect upgrade to your stay at Tierra Chiloé. Both suites look out over the inland Pacific Ocean and Pullao Wetlands from the bedrooms. You can enjoy the wonderful sea view and the constantly changing light on the water, as well as watch the many birds that dwell here.
You’ll find large, comfortable beds and lounge spaces clad in locally-sourced materials. Enjoy deep-soak sea view bathtubs and hand-knitted slippers made of the softest Chilean wool, all to make you feel right at home.
Superior Pullao Rooms
Our cozy Pullao rooms at Tierra Chiloé Island Resort are clad in traditional details from Chiloé Island with wood paneling and warm, inviting tones that complement the overall energy of the lodge.
The rooms have large comfortable beds that face wide windows. Each room offers views overlooking the Pullao Wetlands, which boast a rich array of shorebirds.
Enjoy deep-soak bathtubs and hand-knitted slippers made of the softest Chilean wool, which are yours to keep. What’s more, ten of these rooms can connect, creating family apartments that can sleep up to six people. The interconnecting rooms are perfect for a multi-generational group traveling together.
Superior Rilan Rooms
Relaxation and ocean views await you in our Rilan rooms. Overlooking the inland sea, you’ll be sure to find peace and serenity while watching the sunrise over the water. The warm and inviting neutral colors and natural materials stay true to the rest of the lodge.
You will surely notice the beautifully woven rugs and throws on the bed, all locally handmade by our Chilote neighbors. The Jacuzzi bathtub is the perfect way to warm up and unwind after a day out exploring the island of Chiloé and its surrounding waters.
Dining
Our farm to table restaurant at Tierra Chiloé indulges in the rich produce of the local fishing community, which surrounds the hotel. As such, guests are treated to a plethora of seafood dishes, where mussels, sea urchins and other ocean treats fresh from the daily catch await.
In addition to close ties with the local fishermen and farmers, our chef makes homemade breads and pastries, and the local specialty, the traditional Chilean cuisine dish “curanto”.
This celebratory preparation is done in a hole, in contact with mother earth. It cooks slowly on hot rocks stacked with choritos (a local bivalve), meat, native potatoes and sausages. Chapaleles and milcaos (types of potato bread) must also be added and, on top, nalca leaves are placed, allowing the ingredients to steam cook.
Inside, the warmly-lit walls are part of a relaxed space with handmade wooden furniture, cozy corners, hand crafted lampshades and those ever-present views of the inland sea. Often, our horses can be seen grazing on the grassy pastures surrounding the property.
The Bar
When evening comes, our signature cocktail of Chilean pisco and local Ulmo honey (made from the flowers of a native tree found only in southern Patagonia) is the order of the day.
Our welcoming restaurant staff are on-hand to help find the perfect Chilean wine to accompany your meal, and the bartender can be relied on to suggest a digestif for an after-dinner drink next to the copper fireplace or on the outdoor terrace with its own hearth.
Spa & Wellness
Our Uma Spa at Tierra Chiloé Spa & Wellness Hotel – a place of blissful tranquility with locally sourced materials and all-natural ingredients – encourages you to unwind and rejuvenate far away from your everyday life.
After a day of exploration around the island, why not slip into one of our two soothing, heated pools? Another option is the intricately constructed and calming sauna, guaranteed to help you to relax.
Be sure to make time in your itinerary for one of the Uma Spa’s speciality treatments, which include shiatsu, reflexology and deep-tissue massages, among other options. Our relaxation spa itself is warm and inviting, with local wood and heated stone floors, creating a cozy refuge from the often rainy weather outside.
Whether it’s by enjoying the steam room or sauna, treating yourself to an indulgent massage, or gazing out at the wildlife-rich Pullao wetland from the outdoor heated infinity pool, restoration is at the heart of your island getaway at our Uma Spa.
Any adventure into the Chiloé archipelago will be perfectly rounded off with a relaxation spa session here at the hotel, whether that’s with a soothing treatment or simply bathing in our warm indoor or outdoor pools, which offer beautiful views of the inland sea.
Enter the spa & wellness center and feel the cocoon-like ambience wrap you in warmth and relaxation. Spend time in the seashell-like sauna and steam room, before taking a moment (or the whole afternoon) to admire the Pullao wetland views from a lounger.
Or you may prefer to enjoy a massage or body wrap, with local natural ingredients which work in harmony to restore balance and energy.
Exploring the Chiloe Islands
A land steeped in myth and legend, distinguished by its “Palafitos” or houses built on stilts, evergreen landscapes and enchanting hospitality, the Chiloe Archipelago in Chile is a magical place to visit.
Shaped by the meeting of the land with the sea, the culture of the people here includes innovative architectural techniques, delicious cuisine and mythology rooted in a mix of pre-Columbian religion and legends introduced by European immigrants from long ago.
The Geography of Chiloe
Chiloe is a mix of rolling green hills and blue waters on the eastern side, and a rocky coastline pounded by the mighty Pacific Ocean to the west. This – the Isla Grande de Chiloe – sprawls for a sizeable 3,241sq miles (8,394sq km), made up of watery delights including winding rivers, lakes, lagoons, inlets and coves.
The unique landscape defines the livelihoods of Chilotes and also shelters a fascinating array of flora and fauna. The island is the second largest in South America, cut off from the mainland by the Chacao Canal.
Scattered smaller islands emerge from the Sea of Chiloé between the island and the mainland, completing this beautiful Northern Patagonian archipelago.
Flora and Fauna of Chiloe
The variety of both endemic and introduced flora and fauna is so overwhelming, even Charles Darwin was taken aback on his visit here in 1834. Chiloé teems with lush plantlife across its many islands, flaunting Valdivian Forests made up of myrtle, oak, bamboo, hazelnut and cinnamon, to name just a few.
The diversity of these trees tells a story of natural evolution occurring on the islands, from the end of the ice age that gripped the region some 15,000 years ago, through to the colonial era whereby new species arrived on ships, right up to the present day.
You can learn all about this horticultural intrigue first-hand on our informative excursions, whether discovering Bosquepiedra Private Park or hiking part of the Sendero de Chile. In addition to the verdant forests, Chiloé is also home to around a dozen wetlands, including the Pullao Wetland, which is right next to the hotel.
Recognized by the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network as a ‘site of hemispheric importance’, this sanctuary serves as a vital habitat for an astounding array of wildlife, including the Hudsonian Godwit and the Whimbrel, both carefully protected migratory species.
You can also spot the Chilean Flamingo here, not to mention cormorants, ducks and gulls, all of which can be spotted during an excursion to the Pullao Wetland.
Elsewhere in Chiloé, you can get up close to an impressive variety of animal life, from rare marsupials, the Andean Antelope, Chiloé fox and colocolo cats on the land, to dolphins, black-necked swans and if you’re lucky, maybe even a whale. The archipelago really is a biodiverse haven for all kinds of wildlife.
Farming and Cuisine of Chiloe
The people of Chiloé have adapted to the local conditions of the archipelago over thousands of years, with many traditional agricultural practices still very much in use today.
Cattle drawn carts are still used to transport local produce such as elephant garlic and potatoes – of which there are nearly 300 varieties! Fishermen sell their daily catch, including robalo, pejerrey, trout, oysters and mussels fresh from the sea, in the local markets.
Learning the history of these traditions, from the first-hand accounts of Chilote farmers on the island of Quinchao while sampling local delicacies, means you not only get a delicious taste of the regional cuisine here in Chiloé, but also benefit from an understanding of a lifestyle which is unique to this region.
Be sure to try specialties such as curanto, a stew of meat, potato and shellfish cooked in the ground with hot stones; milcao, a grated potato and pork dish; and mazamorra, a sweet treat made from gooseberries, apples and flour, among many other culinary delights!
Religion and Architecture in Chiloe
As well as the gastronomic traditions that are alive and well in Chiloé, so too are other cultural aspects that lend the islands of the archipelago their own inimitable identity.
Unmistakable architecture comprised of colorful, shingled houses hoisted up on stilts above the water – palafitos – and the wooden, UNESCO World Heritage churches are particularly interesting and can be seen on Isla Quinchao, Castro, and the Rilán Peninsula.
These churches were introduced by the Jesuit missionaries, who built between 60-70 of them (16 of which have since been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites) across the archipelago, made from shingled wood and representing the fusion of native Huilliche, and Chono culture with Spanish Catholicism.
This union of indigenous and imported European beliefs led to an exceptional religious culture which is still alive and well today. There are many festivals throughout the year, with traditional Chilote mythology at their core.
Chiloe Island Legends
The myths and legends that shroud the islands of Chiloé were born out of the mix of pre-Columbian and European beliefs, bringing in influences from as far as Celtic lands and Spain itself.
The evocative scenery of Chiloé serves as a backdrop for these tales, with mist and fog playing on stormy seas, and windswept lands which lie at the mercy of the ocean’s temperaments.
This is why most of these mythological characters represent natural phenomena, such as El Cuchivilu who is said to be responsible for destroying fishermen’s nets, and La Pincoya, a mermaid who either blesses locals with abundances of fish, or wreaks havoc through storms if she’s in a bad mood!
These fabled characters, of which there are countless more, are woven into the cultural identity of Chiloé, present in everything from cuisine and farming to folkloric festivals and handicrafts, all waiting to be discovered during your stay at Tierra Chiloé.
Tantauco Park Trekking: Virgin forest
Tantauco Park is located in Chiloe Isla Grande’s most remote and wild area along the northern border of Chilean Patagonia, at the southern end of the world.
This trekking features evergreen and millennial cypress forests and peat bogs from the last glacial era; in addition to large lakes and rivers distributed throughout a vast landscape of 118,000 hectares, home to a magnificent variety of flora and fauna.
Cole Cole: hidden beach, Chiloe National Park
To start our hiking in this remote region of Chile, we will head by land to Cucao Beach. Following the beach north for 12 km, we will see in action one of the typical Chilote economic activities: diving for razor clam extraction.
At the end of the beach, in the Huentemo area, we will find a stream, where our 8 km trekking will begin through forests and island cliffs along the beach with amazing views.
Finally, we will arrive at beautiful, remote Cole-Cole Beach with its white sand, the perfect place to have a Tierra Hotel classic picnic. Our return will be along the same route.
Quinchao Island: the true heart of traditional and indigenous Chiloé
We will board the ferry to Quinchao Island, a quiet village that once a year transforms, receiving hundreds of tourists for one of the archipelago’s most important religious festivals.
We will head toward Achao, the island capital, and walk along its bay until arriving at the church. Depending on the time of year, we will see the work of local artisans. We will visit a local organic farm and learn about the work of Chilote farmers and their famous crops of native potato and giant garlic.
We will lunch in the area and then head to Curaco de Vélez with its more than 100-year-old houses whose colorful shingles continue to delight.
We will then travel by land to Dalcahue, to which artisans travel every weekend from the farthest islands to sell their weavings, baskets and woodwork at the age-old traditional market.
Ahuenco Park: a slice of unique landscape
To start our journey toward Ahuenco Park, we will travel by land to Chepu, the small town on the shore of the island’s largest river.
On the way, we will cross the Chepu River by boat, passing through the sunken forest and arriving to the pier, to start our trek through native forests and by points looking out on the Pacific Ocean.
During the summer months, we will have the opportunity to see the island’s two main penguin species: Magallanes and Humboldt, who arrive here to produce and raise their nestlings. We will return on the path and again cross the river on the way back to the hotel.
Tricolor Trekking: The colors of forest, sand and sea
The colors of forest, sand and sea give rise to the name of this Pacific Ocean beach. On our trekking, we will cross dunes, pampas and native forests with privileged views of enormous cliffs, a tour that combines Chiloe’s different landscapes and the discovery of its wildlife.
We will pass through the abandoned Quilan Estate, an old gold-panning site that was one of the most important sheep livestock ranches in the area but disappeared after the 1960 earthquake. This trekking will also connect us with the island’s indigenous ancestors who left evidence of their presence in the area.
Route of the Churches
This interesting tour to Quemchi, Aucar Island and three local churches can be done either on foot or by bicycle, the perfect chance to explore the north of the island on two wheels!
After driving from the hotel to Quemchi, the first stop on this cultural excursion is the museum and former home of Francisco Coloane, one of Chile’s best literary writers who is well-known for his seafaring stories, inspired by the landscapes and myths of Chiloé.
We then head to Aucar Island – which Coloane himself named the “Island of Sailors’ Spirits”. We’ll cross a long bridge to reach the chapel and cemetery here, before starting on the meandering path which leads around Aucar Island. This allows us time to soak up the scenery here, which is bursting with fascinating flora.
We round off this tour by visiting three churches, all designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Colo, Tenaún and Dalcahue.
These centuries-old buildings are all intriguing examples of the region’s unique architectural style, blending Jesuit and ancient Chilote techniques to afford a category all of their own: the “Chilote school of architecture”. It is here that this cultural immersion into northern Chiloé concludes, before heading back to the hotel in our support vehicle.
Chepu: hidden corners
For this hiking in Chile, we will travel by land to Chepu and sail downstream to the mouth of the river. Here we will begin our walk toward the south of the river, passing through native and coastal forests that have been beat down by the wind.
Arriving at Guabil Beach, we will take in a landscape characteristic of the western coast of Chiloe with green cliffs that fall abruptly into the sea. A little farther along, we will come across an old, grounded ship. Returning to the mouth of the river, we will continue sailing to the “Pier of Light” (Muelle de la Luz).
Legend has it that from this place at night, it is common to see lights in the sky, on the horizon and on the ocean; sometimes the lights of a wizard, sometimes those of a Caleuche and other times light from other planets. We will return to our ferry and start our return trip upriver among gorgeous submerged forests.
Duahatao-Chepu Trekking: a past of active volcanism
The Sendero de Chile is a project designed to connect the entire length of Chile through scenic and naturally versatile trekking trails. This enchanting trek will take in a small section of the wider trail, beginning at the beautiful Bay of Duhatao.
From here, you will walk the twisting coastal cliffs as they merge into lush forest, taking time to appreciate privileged vantage points before heading deep into the woods. Birdlife abounds among ancient trees, where Hummingbirds dash between foliage amid the call of Chucao, Rayaditos and other native songbirds.
The trekking will be steady, with any strenuous effort or uphill climbs being rewarded with invigorating views of the surrounding woodland, and out to the Chepu River in the distance.
The trail descends gradually to the islet of Aulen, where you will have a relaxing stroll along the beach towards our awaiting vessel, which will take you for an exhilarating and well-earned boat ride upstream.
Towards the end of this voyage, we will be rewarded with views of the Sunken Forest (“Bosque Hundido”), from the boat itself.
Castro: discovering our heritage
The beating heart of Chiloé lies in the traditional stilt houses, grand churches and authentic craft markets of Castro. This city, a 16th century former stronghold of Chilean governance, was used as an entry point to capture the island as an extension of the mainland.
The history and cultural influences surrounding Castro make for an adventure of discovery. It begins with a visit to the colourful Mercado Yumbel. This vibrant market is awash with local produce, freshly caught fish and rustically woven wares, a place for islanders as well as visitors.
From Yumbel, head to the iconic stilt houses in an area protected by the curve of the coastline, a great photo opportunity.
The streets from the bay lead to the central church of San Francisco, one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. The visit ends with time in the shipyards and carpentry school, an important part of the city’s economy and cultural heritage.
Chelin: the heart of the archipelago
Set sail on our very own boat, the Williche, journeying southwest to the island of Chelin on this exciting full-day expedition.
We’ll dock at Chelin, a beautiful island laden with original houses tucked along old-fashioned streets, where we’ll stumble upon the neoclassical World Heritage Site church which has been painstakingly preserved with the help of local artisans and architects.
We’ll continue to the cemetery, a fascinating sight to behold with tombstones imitating the village’s very own wooden shingled homes, making it appear like a miniature town of the dead, lost in time.
Trekking to the Pier of Souls
Muelle de las Almas or “Pier of Souls” is a wooden pier perched on the cliff edges above the sea, leading nowhere. The work of local artist and sculptor Chumono, Muelle de las Almas plays homage to the legend of the boatman Tempilcahue who takes the souls of the dead to their final resting place.
Your trekking to the pier will start with a scenic drive along the shores of Huillinco Lake towards the beach at Cucao.
Once at the beach, you can walk along the coastal trails that overlook the ocean followed by hilly terrain in the open before reaching the cliffs, where the coastal trail overlooks the ocean. We have a picnic lunch here and climb a nearby cliff to view the the resident sea lion colony below.
Pullao Marsh (Kayak): Birdwatching
From our pier, a privileged view that few know and is beautiful from every angle, we will head in the direction of Pullao Marsh. Located in our backyard, it is one of the island’s most important marshes.
There we will watch migratory birds such as the long-billed curlew, cormorants and flamingos. With the help of binoculars, we can watch them fly and, if lucky, we will row alongside dolphins.
The tour will finish with one of the island’s longest standing traditions: clam harvesting, a very important activity for Chiloe. From there, we will head back to the hotel.
Self Guided Biking
While the majority of our excursions are in the company of one of Tierra’s expert guides, we also understand the importance of doing some outdoor exploration on your own. Our self-guided biking excursions are the perfect way to get out, stretch your legs and familiarize yourself with the lands that lie around the hotel.
Depending on your particular interests, physical ability and local weather conditions, our guides can offer tailor-made recommendations for your biking adventures in Chiloé. There are many different trails to choose from, everything from easy cycles to challenging off-road routes.
Rides begin from the hotel and generally head towards the village of San Jose. Here, you can explore local life and stop for a well-earned break, having traversed the woodland, open fields and coastal paths along the way, relishing the mountain and sea views as you go.
Backyard Pullao
The Humedales Orientales de Chiloé, or ‘Eastern Wetlands of Chiloé,’ are a vital ecosystem and welcome resting place for thousands of migrating shorebirds each year.
Expanding across a total area of 30,000 km², these marshy plains are an important conservational site of significant proportions, highlighting some of Chile’s rich biodiversity and changeable geography.
Though the exact number and variety species varies depending on the time of year and seasonal weather conditions, regular residents include no less than 27% of the world’s entire Hudsonian Godwit population, families of Chilean Flamingos, Cormorants and large numbers of both coastal Ducks and Gulls.
During this excursion into some of the more accessible sections of wetland, our local guide will be on hand to point out wildlife and explain more about the local seaweed collectors, who you may see at low tide.
You can also enjoy a similar experience on the water itself by kayak, or visit nearby Salmon and Mussel farms, depending on your interests and preferences.