The Singular Patagonia

The Singular Patagonia is the most unique, the most interesting, and one of the most special hotels we’ve stayed at anywhere in the world. It’s truly extraordinary in every way. LOCATION It’s a challenge to get to The Singular Patagonia, and that’s part of its appeal. For us, it was a 3.5 hour flight from Santiago to Punta Arenas, followed by a 2.5 hour drive along a well maintained, largely deserted, and incredibly scenic highway. Pulling onto the hotel’s property is a surprise. It looks more like a remarkably well-preserved abandoned factory than a hotel, but inside that industrial shell is a modern world of refined luxury and heartfelt hospitality. And if that isn’t enough, it’s perched on the shore of the Patagonian fjords, with awe inspiring views of the surrounding mountains. The architect and designer are gifted visionaries to have fantasized what this site could become, and they are miracle workers for having executed that vision so well. ROOMS Every room has a wall of windows overlooking that majestic view—it’s cinematic, almost surreal. We found the accommodations spacious and comfortably furnished (a second armchair would be a good idea though), with carefully curated decor and accessories that reflect the property’s unique heritage. The bathroom is dark and moody, with heated floors, an elegant soaker tub, separate spacious shower with forceful water pressure, and a generous assortment of signature bespoke toiletries. The towels and bathrobes are plush, heavy, and decadent. Each night, while we were at dinner, the bed would be turned down, curtains drawn, slippers placed by the bed, and a little crystal dish of candies set on the nightstand, along with a card providing some kind of interesting detail about the region, the hotel, or its history. COMMON AREAS This is where The Singular Patagonia really shines. One could very happily spend their entire stay on-site, I think. You arrive at a strikingly modern receiving area (cleverly housed inside an old storage shed), where you’re greeted by enthusiastic and smartly attired staff. After your luggage is whisked away, you are led to a funicular(!) that will transport you down a hill to the spare and chic front desk below for registration. From there, you pass along a glass-railed catwalk through what can only be described as a time-capsule museum of the original machinery, equipment, and fixtures that were in use here a hundred years ago when it was a cold storage facility. This is a steampunk aficionado’s dream come to life! We enjoyed stopping to read more about the history on the plaques posted and through the QR codes provided. Guided tours are also available for those interested in taking a deeper dive into the hotel’s origins. DINING What a delight it was to discover that a hotel in such a remote location—and during the low season no less—somehow manages to offer world-class cuisine, the finest craft cocktails, and meticulous hospitality. There are three distinct spaces in one cavernous building: a breakfast room, a restaurant, and a bar/lounge. One of the highlights of each day was having a couple of unique cocktails by the enormous fireplace, gazing out over the water to the mountains beyond. The smoked cocktails, ceremoniously presented under glass, were our favourites. We also enjoyed a couple of delicious lunches in this exceedingly comfortable space. Breakfast each morning was a delight, and the dinners alone would make a trip here worthwhile. Even the ultra-modern ‘space capsule’ washrooms are a unique experience! SPA There is a small, serene spa accessed through an intriguingly industrial concrete tunnel. It has a relaxation room, wet and dry saunas, a whirlpool, and a small pool, all of which offer the same commanding views as the guest rooms. In summer months, the pool extends outdoors as well. This was the perfect spot to unwind after returning from a full day of hiking in the cold. HOUSEKEEPING It’s rare that a hotel’s housekeeping department merits its own special recognition, but the team at The Singular does an exemplary job: the place is absolutely spotless. Given the vast sheets of glass everywhere, this is no small feat. And muddy footprints from returning hikers are quickly and stealthily removed from the tile floors. Everything is in such excellent condition that it’s hard to believe the facility is over 100 years old! EXCURSIONS We chose a package rate that included all meals and beverages, as well as two half-day or one full-day excursion each day. Because it was low season, we ended up having a guide to ourselves one day, and we were joined by just two more guests for the others. Luxury vehicle transportation, gourmet snacks and lunches, and knowledgeable and personable guides made every outing and exhilarating joy. We wouldn’t have wanted to explore and experience Torres del Paine any other way. FINAL THOUGHTS We reluctantly checked out after three nights and found ourselves wishing we had planned to stay here a full week. Fortunately, it was the last of the six hotels we stayed at during our three-week trip throughout Chile. While we thoroughly enjoyed everywhere we stayed, The Singular Patagonia sets the bar impossibly high and delivers an experience that would be difficult to match anywhere else. We enjoyed our stay so much that we purchased etchings of the property from the thoughtfully curated gift shop, and they are already framed and hanging on our wall as I write this review. We hope to return to Chile one day just to stay at this incomparable, unforgettable, truly “singular” hotel again.

The best time of the year to visit Patagonia is winter, and even better if it is in this wonderful hotel. On the excursions we were able to see all the animals, including pumas, with snowy landscapes that take your breath away, and no tourists. Then we arrived at the hotel with a warm jacuzzi overlooking the fjord. A trip we will never forget!!

We spent five nights as a family (2 older adults and 3 young adults) at this beautiful hotel. The views of the fjord, which can be seen from every room, are spectacular. The rooms and beds are very comfortable and bathrooms have tubs and showers. The food is extraordinary - meat, fish, vegetarian and they are hyper -aware of all dietary restrictions. We chose the full experience so all meals and activities were included. The guides were excellent, especially Christian and Diego (with whom we went puma tracking - very steep extra charge but we did spend nearly two hours following a mama and her cubs), Gonzalo (tour and short easy hikes in Torres del Paine NP), Pablo (two strenuous hikes - including a 13 mile round trip to the base of the Towers). We also had a cooking class with Fransisco and a bar tending class with Jessica and G-----. The fall is a great time to visit Patagonia - few tourists, leaves are changing, snow is on the mountains and the weather is exhilarating - not freezing but no summer heat!

What a great location. In a way you sleep in a museum. All rooms have a great view. Really nice restored and you feel the history. The restaurant and also the bar looks really nice, large fire. It is wise to take your jacket when going from your room to the dinner place, it is on the way a bit cold, I can image the space in between is not heated as that is the museum. I love the heated floor in the bath room. only I missed that when I had to use the toilet. In there the floor is not heated. But large and beautiful bathroom

Excellent and unique experience. The staff operates at a top level and will be sure that your stay is enjoyable. Tours are offered from the hotel but we had hiked for 5 days and simply enjoyed the comforts of the property. Although the industrial history is maintained in the architectural design, the rooms are warm and comfortable. Wonderful.