Nevados de Sollipulli

Sollipulli is an area of otherworldly landscapes which bring together natural features not normally seen together: namely, a volcanic caldera filled with ice. The result is a beautiful setting for your stay at Nevados de Sollipulli; wooden walkways criss-cross between the rooms and the communal areas, through sparse forest and over pristine sheets of snow and ice.

Accommodation at the eco-lodge is made up of eight ‘domes’: white, igloo-esque frames covered in canvas, with wooden interior walls and twin beds with padded thermal duvets to keep you nice and warm. Rooms are small and simple but very comfortable, lit atmospherically by lamps and heated by radiators, with cosy rugs underfoot.

Furniture has an organic look, with beds made from knotted wooden planks and tables hewn from tree stumps. Bathrooms are modern but have a similarly rustic feel, with sinks embedded into roughly carved wood.

The bar and dining room has a sci-fi B movie feel, with the silver foil padding of its domed roof providing welcome warmth and insulation. The food, though, is much more down-to-earth. In keeping with the ethos of the hotel, you’ll find hearty, country-style cuisine, such as roasted meats, mountain veg and hearty stews – just the thing to fortify you after a day’s adventures in the mountains. A selection of white and red Chilean wine is on offer to accompany your food.

As you might expect, there’s no gym or fancy spa at Nevados de Sollipulli. However, the outdoor hot tub, carved from local wood, is a hugely inviting place to warm up as you take in the view of the snow-covered forest all around you.

A range of activities is on offer to help you explore the unique landscapes of this beautiful region, with options varying by the season. Cross-country skiing is a great way to traverse the snow, while guided treks up the volcano are a must – you’ll be in good hands, with expert naturalists leading expeditions and teaching you about local flora, fauna and geology along the way.

Enjoying a packed lunch at the top of the caldera, having scaled the side of the mountain, is an unforgettable experience. In the summer, canyoning, mountain biking and camping – even spending a night in the caldera itself – are all great ways to explore the environment.