13 Nov Refugia Chiloe
About Refugia Chiloe
Location: Castro, Chiloe Island, Chile.
Located in a hilltop setting at the edge of the sea, Refugia Chiloe formerly Tierra Chiloe is the perfect retreat, an all-inclusive lodge that has been inspired by Chiloé’s iconic palafito stilt houses – elevated on a glass-and-concrete base, with exterior larch-wood shingles and inside walls lined with native cypress paying tribute to the local mastery of woodcraft.
The contemporary hotel comprises 24 rooms, a cosy living room with fireplace, dining room, bar and a terrace, as well as a spa. From every room and all communal areas and terraces, there are magnificent views of the sea, as well as some of the islands and the imposing Andes mountains.
WHY REFUGIA CHILOE
Excursions for Everyone
Refugia Chiloe offers excursions for all fitness levels and interests. There is a vast choice depending on your tastes including: walking, hiking, boat travel, and exploration by van. View excursions below.
Expert Experienced Guides
Refugia Chiloe employs passionate local guides with many years of experience and contagious enthusiasm for their surroundings. The guides take pride in showing off all Chiloe Island has to offer.
Like-minded Travellers
Refugia Chiloe welcome visitors from all over the world who enjoy travel and getting in touch with nature. The many common areas are a perfect for enjoying the company of like-minded travellers and well as the views of the lakes.
Local Cuisine and Ancient Recipes
Dining at Refugia Chiloe is exciting, delicious and local. The Chef and culinary team create dishes using ancient recipes and featuring the abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafoods and meats available on the island. We honor and cherish the food culture of Chiloe by introducing guests to true farm-to-table and sea-to-table dining experiences with menus that change daily. Enjoy panoramic views of the inland Chiloe sea, the rolling green hills of the archipelago, and the distant Andes mountains of the continent.
Distinctive Architecture
Located in serene surroundings, Refugia Chiloe’s architecture complements the landscape as well as provides a luxurious and comfortable home away from home. Well planed living spaces with generous windows for optimal views makes this the perfect place to retire after a day of exploration.
All-inclusive stay
The Full Experience price package inclusions are all-inclusive of all set meals; open bar (includes mineral water, soft drinks, juices, premium wines and spirits); two half day excursions or one full day excursion daily, in small groups; use of spa facilities including indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms and jacuzzi (massages, therapies and spa treatments are available for an additional cost) and scheduled airport transfers. After October 3 2025 and ending May 1 2026 no minimum stay is required for the airport transfers from either airport. Each adult paying Full Experience is invited to receive a 30 minute complimentary massage in the Refugia Spa.
Rooms
Refugia Chiloe is a boutique hotel with twenty-four rooms all designed to be in conversation with the outdoors, the gorgeous land and sea, and the flora, fauna and birds of Chiloe Island. Refugia’s architecture, terraces and locally authentic interior design deliver a profound sense of place. Guestrooms are clad in wood and lined with large windows with mesmerizing views. Refugia Chiloe is a gem to be discovered for an understated luxury accommodation in Chile.
Rilán Rooms are wood clad Chilean accomodations with big windows overlooking the ocean, the meadow, the Williche and the hillsides across the water. Designed for relaxation, they feature sumptuous king beds, local textiles and handmade wooden tables. From here, you’ll take in the pristine beauty of the outdoors even before you head outside.
Pullao Rooms offers a warm and welcome retreat, featuring panoramic windows with views of the Pullao tidal bay and wetlands. Pullao rooms have sumptuous king beds and handcrafted furnishings. As a family-friendly hotel, we offer the option to interconnect two adjacent Pullao rooms so that families and groups of friends can share spaces in groups of four or six.
The Suites have windows on two sides for capturing the ever-changing panorama of the inland sea, shore, tides and hillsides. Suites are a great option for couples, a trio of friends, or for families with young children who wish to have a more contained personal space.
Excursions
Refugia Chiloe has a team of guides offering tailored half-day and full day outings for guests. Day trips are scheduled and designed to allow guests to discover the magic, culture and nature of the archipelago through a variety of outings including cultural trips, boating, horse riding, biking, trekking and nature observation. Refugia Chiloe has it’s own vessel named “Williche” to escort guests around the archipelago giving additional flexibility to the excursions available.
Shellfishing at Low Tide. Duration: Half day. Difficulty: Easy (Appropriate for all ages and abilities)
When the tide goes out, take the opportunity to try the ancient craft of shellfishing for a glimpse into a lifestyle unique to this region. Equipped with rubber boots and armed with handmade tools, stroll along the beach with an experienced guide, seeking various types of shellfish including clams, cholgas, mussels and piures.
Back at the hotel, observe the cooking of the shellfish gathered during the excursion and enjoy a culinary celebration of Chilote tradition and local produce.
Quinchao Island. Duration: Full Day. Difficulty: Easy
Set out from the hotel by land and board the ferry to Quinchao, the second-largest island in the archipelago. Upon arrival, journey to Achao, a city celebrated for its ancient structures adorned with wooden tiles in an array of shapes and colours. Among these architectural gems lies UNESCO’s oldest World Heritage listed church, adding historical resonance to the city’s charming ambiance.
The journey continues into the local farming community with a visit to Apiloca de Quinchao, a proudly family-operated honey business, to learn more about how the honey is produced and observe the bees at work, then to a local organic farm to witness Chilote farmers cultivating native potatoes, giant garlic, and a medley of fruits and vegetables.
Finally, climb aboard Refugia Chiloé’s wooden yacht the ‘Williche’ for a scenic return journey to the hotel. Share the day’s discoveries while enjoying drinks and a freshly prepared lunch en route – a culinary epilogue to the day’s outing.
Historic Castro. Duration: Full Day. Difficulty: Easy
The historic city of Castro, a 16th century former stronghold of Chilean governance, was a pivotal gateway used to secure the island as an extension of the mainland. The warmth of the local community creates an immersive experience, revealing the rich history and cultural tapestry that defines Chiloé. Castro’s charming main street is adorned with lively stilt houses, small craft shops, and traditional wooden-clad stores.
The picturesque Yumbel Market beckons, offering a sensory feast of Chiloé’s most distinctive products, from chilote potatoes and giant garlic to intricate basketry, fabrics, and an array of fresh seafood. Visits to significant landmarks, including the San Francisco Church, a National Historic Monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the coastal shipyard, where the ‘Williche’ was built, provide a deeper understanding of Chiloé’s cultural heritage. The tour concludes with a visit to Nercón Church, a valuable testament to the renowned Chilota School of Wood Architecture, encapsulating the island’s architectural aptitude and cultural legacy.
Chelin and Quehui Islands. Duration: Full Day. Difficulty: Easy
Docking at Chelin, a beautiful island dotted with original houses tucked along old-fashioned streets, discover the neoclassical World Heritage Site church which has been painstakingly preserved with the help of local artisans and architects. Continue to the cemetery, a fascinating sight to behold with tombstones imitating the village’s very own wooden shingled homes, resembling a miniature town of the dead, lost in time.
Take a moment to view neighbouring islands from a lookout before travelling along forest paths back to the Williche and set sail for Quehui Island, navigating to the center of the island via the Pindo Estuary. The calm waters of the estuary are perfect for kayaking, cruising the shoreline by Zodiac or exploring cycling trails with rewarding views.
The perfect finalé, enjoy a leisurely walk down the picturesque streets of Quehui, renowned for its annual Ocean Festival, a traditional gathering celebrating local cuisine, folklore and traditions. Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch aboard the Williche on the return journey to the hotel.
Horse back Riding. Duration: Full Day. Difficulty Medium (Requires a basic level of physical fitness)
Embark on a leisurely horseback journey through the time-honored footpaths of Chiloé’s island villagers, experiencing the essence of traditional life in the archipelago. Departing from our stables, the expedition unfolds along ancient trails, providing a unique perspective of the countryside and observations that only an adventure on horseback can offer. Accompanied by our seasoned horsemen, enjoy an intimate exploration of the island and the hotel’s enchanting surroundings.
Tepuhueico Park. Duration: Full Day. Difficulty Medium-Easy (Requires a basic level of physical fitness)
Nestled within the heart of a private conservation initiative, Tepuhueico Park forms a sanctuary of verdant wilderness that stretches seamlessly from the serene shores of Lake Tepuhueico to the rhythmic waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Within this unspoiled haven of Valdivian rainforest, the park’s diverse sectors offer a network of trails winding their way among colossal mañio trees, ancient tepues, fragrant canelos, myrtle tree bark and lush fern beds. These paths lead to the majestic Rio Bravo Waterfall, where caramel-hued waters cascade over a 10-meter precipice, revealing a spectacle of nature’s grandeur. Whether traversing cycling paths, hiking trails, or gliding on the tranquil surface of Lake Tepuhueico by kayak, the park provides myriad ways to intimately connect with awe-inspiring scenery.
Bike Riding. Duration: Half Day. Difficulty Medium-Easy (Requires a basic level of physical fitness)
There are a great variety of trails perfectly suited for exploring the captivating landscape of Chiloe Island on a bike ride, from easier routes to rugged terrain for the more experienced rider. Choose an e-bike and cruise along trails through beautiful countryside or opt for a mountain bike to tackle challenging climbs, rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean. Observant riders can keep an eye out for wildlife – Chiloe foxes, guina cats or perhaps even the elusive Pudu – the world’s smallest deer.
Palqui Woods Hike. Duration: Half Day. Difficulty Easy (Appropriate for all ages and abilities)
This half day guided hike travels deep into the forest at an easy pace, allowing enough time to stop at regular intervals to learn about the unique flora encountered and take advantage of photo opportunities along the way.
Stroll through charming villages along the route and learn more about the region while enjoying glimpses of the inland sea and islands beyond.
Epukuden Park. Duration: Half Day. Difficulty Easy (Appropriate for all ages and abilities)
Guests are invited to explore every corner of the private grounds, thoughtfully crafted for the enjoyment of both the local community and visitors to San José. Myriad sounds, textures and wildlife unique to the area are revealed along the easy grade, two-kilometer trail.
Depending on weather conditions, add another dimension to the experience and explore the trail on two wheels. The hotel offers complimentary e-bikes for guest use.
Stand-Up Paddle. Duration: Half Day. Difficulty Medium (Requires a basic level of physical fitness)
The protected waters of the bay are ideal for beginners to Stand-Up Paddling (often referred to as SUP) while experienced paddlers can test their skills.
Soak in the scenic beauty of the surroundings and keep a lookout for various species of birds – residents and migratory, including the Hudsonian Godwit (Limosa haemastica), an emblematic species from Alaska that has chosen Chiloe’s wetlands as one of its regular routes to spend the austral summer.
Kayak Trip. Duration: Half Day. Difficulty Medium (Requires a basic level of physical fitness)
Departing southwards, the water route provides a unique perspective on the Chiloe archipelago, echoing the journeys of Jesuit missionaries who once spread their teachings throughout the islands.
Covering 8 kilometres, the kayak journey leads to Rilán, where its World Heritage listed church and quaint township can be explored on foot. This adventure not only unveils the historical and cultural heritage of the region but also offers an opportunity to appreciate the peninsula’s rich biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse bird species that inhabit the area, and for glimpses of Chilean dolphins gracefully swimming in the surrounding waters. Guests can choose to complete the return journey to Refugia Chiloe by car or kayak.
Forest Bathing. Duration: 2 -3 Hours. Difficulty Easy (Appropriate for all ages)
Forest bathing, also known as nature bathing or forest therapy, is a practice that increases your well-being, facilitating a connection between nature and the senses. For this optional experience, a guide invites newly-arrived hotel guests to perform simple sensory exercises during a slow and contemplative walk.
Unlike a nature walk where you go in search of certain species or a trek with a specific destination, the goal of forest bathing is simply to “be” in the present moment and enjoy the different sensations and benefits that nature provides.
This practice, has scientifically proven health benefits, such as reducing stress, strengthening the immune system, and improving sleep, cognitive function and mood. Nature or forest bathing can also help strengthen relationships and bonds with others and with oneself, in addition to increasing levels of energy and creativity.
Ahuenco Park. Duration: Full Day. Difficult (Requires a high level of fitness with experience in wilderness areas)
Chepu stands as a charming town along Chiloé’s largest river, serving as the starting point for the journey to Ahuenco Park. The adventure begins with a boat crossing of the Chepu River, navigating the mystical Sunken Forest before commencing the trek through native woods. Glimpses of the Pacific Ocean provide a stunning backdrop to the exploration.
During the summer months, from October to April, serendipity may grant a unique encounter with Chiloé’s vibrant wildlife. Magellanic and Humboldt penguins, the island’s two main species, favor Ahuenco Park as a nesting site and a safe environment to nurture their young, offering a captivating and rare spectacle.
The Iconic Williche Boat – A Centrepiece of your Luxury Vacation at Refugia Chiloe
The archipelago of Chiloe is composed of one large island and several smaller islands and islets. For millions of years the Pacific Ocean has surrounded, pounded, and smoothed out Chiloé’s shorelines, peninsulas, fjords, marshes and bays. Today as yesterday, the biodiversity is robust with plants, animals, migratory birds and sea life all wildly thriving. At Refugia Chiloé our guides will traverse the land and sea with you to help you understand this lively habitat and ecosystem so that you absolutely love your luxury vacation.
The iconic Williche boat is a centerpiece of your luxury vacation at Refugia Chiloe. Locally hand-built, the much-loved Williche allows guests to travel like the locals and appreciate the islands, shores, waters and sea life while enjoying the on-board comforts of the lovely Williche. Delicious seafood is caught, prepared and served onboard, including sea urchins and premium Chilean oysters, freshly shucked. The freshness and flavors are sublime.
For more information on Refugia Chiloe and to make a booking, call 1300 784 794 or email contact@satc.com.au.