Luxury Eco Hotels in Patagonia
Patagonia runs along the southern part of the Andes, spanning South America, Chile and southern Argentina. The region has four seasons and is famous for its magnificent nature which includes untouched rivers, lakes, deserts and meadows. Patagonia, located close to Antarctica, is also a popular tourist destination for glaciers seekers.
In order to protect the majestic nature and unique flora and fauna, there are various eco hotels that are thoroughly sustainable.
Eco Camp Patagonia
Glamping, a form of camping which is gaining in popularity recently.
It is a form of camp that combines the comfort and luxury of indoors accommodation with the fun of camping in nature.
Patagonia also has eco-camps which are often referred to as dome-shaped glamping.
Eco Camp Patagonia, the world’s first dome hotel, opened in 2001 in the heart of Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park. The shape of the dome is said to have originated from the ancient homes of the people of Kaweskar, the indigenous people of the area.
This dome hotel is environmentally friendly by using the least amount of material to cover the largest surface area,it allows air to circulate freely inside and maximizes natural heating and cooling. The dome’s design is designed to withstand the heavy winds passing through Patagonia. As expected, the designers have adopted the design based on the wisdom of indigenous people!
The hotel has been carbon neutral since 2008 and is powered by renewable energy. The renewable energy sources are mainly solar and hydropower from nearby rivers. There is a biofiltration system, wooden floors are raised above the ground to protect plant life, and certain domes also have a private bathroom with low-emission propane heaters and composting toilets .
Hotel meals source local produce and partner with nonprofits to plant new trees and rebuild trails. In addition, the day’s food is ordered at breakfast, in order that food can be procured on that same day to minimize food waste.
Consisting of an eco-friendly and fully sustainable domes, the eco-camp has won various awards and was named the Travel + Leisure’s world’s best hotel in 2017, and in Latin America in 2019 Awarded a luxury award.
There are four types of accommodation ranging from the standard dome to the suite dome loft. There is also a community dome and a yoga dome for socialising and exercising. Depending on the course, there are dome bars, massages, two free yoga classes alternating between hatha and kundalini yoga daily, as well as a comprehensive range of meals (including a 3-course dinner with wine and daily cocktails), guided trekking, horse riding and kayaking tours. Programs are included.
Outside of the dome, one can observe the magnificent natural scenery of Patagonia and local wildlife such as deers and pumas in the southern Andes during the day, as well as observing the full starry sky at night.
An eco-camp where it’s possible to spend time comfortably while being connected to nature? I would like to stay by all means!
Awasi Patagonia
Awasi Patagonia, a Relais & Chateaux facility in a private reserve overlooking Torres del Paine National Park.
This luxury boutique hotel uses renewable energy for its 14 villas and a raised floor main lodge, work to minimise the footprint and to reduce damage to nature. It also returns money back to the local communities through wildlife conservation activities, including a puma tracking program which works to protect the endangered species.
The price covers everything from meals to private guided tours. Each villa is assigned a dedicated guide and a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Explora Patagonia
Located on the shores of Lake Peroe, with spectacular views of the mountains beyond, Explora Patagonia is a 49-room luxury resort designed to blend in with the surrounding nature.
There is no Wi-Fi or TV in the rooms, so one can indulge in a digital detox. Guests can enjoy the on-site spa, heated indoor pool, and half- or full-day hiking and horse riding.
The resort launched a reforestation program in 2011 after a catastrophic wildfire hit the park, as well as recycling initiatives and practices the efficient use of electricity and water. Guests can directly assist in the restoration of the lost forest in Torres del Paine.
BlueGreen Adventures
Since 1996 BlueGreen Adventures has invested in local communities and the surrounding communities by their commitment to preserving local culture and the environment. In addition to horse riding with an indigenous guide, travelers can enjoy the local cowboy and Gaucho life. Horses are utilised as opposed to vehicles in order to move equipment and luggage. It is an immersive experience.
One can also enjoy mountain camps, boat and kayak rides, fly fishing, staying with local families, cooking classes and folk music.
” We are constantly talking to local families and people looking for sustainable tourism ventures in the area and helping them participate in tourism in a responsible manner, ” said Lian Hayes, founder.
Patagonia is full of wilderness and there are many sustainable hotels that cooperate and collaborate to protect the environment.
These eco hotels in Patagonia and their sustainable initiatives seem to not only be a good way to enjoy the wilderness of the area, but can also be quite fun and luxurious!
Do you enjoy gathering information about interesting eco travel options? To receive inspiration direct to your email inbox, please click here and register for the ecotourism-world newsletter!
