Self-drive Chile: Off the beaten track

Palafito 1326 is on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and in the heart of the Palafitos de Gamboa neighbourhood, a 10 minute walk from the centre of the island's capital, Castro. It is unusual for being contained in a renovated traditional palafito (house on stilts), blending perfectly with nearby houses and offering a unique accommodation experience. 

The hotel has been decorated with more than a nod to local culture, incorporating original native woods and textiles. The well insulated and bright guest rooms are provided with thermal heating and large windows allow the passage of translucent daylight, with views towards Castro fjord and Gamboa river or over the street.  Additionally, there’s an internet lounge, dining-living room and large terraces, and service is friendly and helpful.

Estancia 440 a charming boutique B&B occupies a lovingly refurbished 1930s house clad with wood-shingle tiles in typically Germanic local style. It is just 1km from the lakeside resort town of Puerto Varas in Chile's lake district. Inside it's spotlessly clean and beautifully decorated in subdued tones and tasteful floral patterns. Its guests can be sure of a warm welcome and a hearty breakfast –served each morning in the family-style dining room.

Operated by husband and wife team Noel and Maria Paz, Entre Hielos Lodge is a small boutique hotel cosily clad with honey-toned wood throughout, giving it the feel of a ski chalet or log cabin – ideal for relaxing in after a long day exploring the wilderness of the remote Carretera Austral. The overall feeling is one of warmth, not just as a result of the glowing fireplaces that heat comfortable living spaces packed with books and photos, but due to the friendliness and hospitality of the hosts.

The small, well-kept Hostel el Puesto, set on the banks of the Rio Tranquilo, is a cosy and convivial base for explorations in the surrounding Patagonian landscape, including to the nearby Capillas de Mármol. Though the six guestrooms and private cottages are simply appointed, care has been put into thoughtful touches that go beyond what you'd expect of a hotel in this category. Also much-commented-on by guests is the friendliness of the staff, who are more than happy to share their wide knowledge of the local area.

The inviting living room, warmed by an old-fashioned stove, is a lovely place to take respite after a hike or simply to curl up with a book when it's inhospitable outside. There's also a tiny restaurant serving home-cooked fare. Décor is in typical rustic Patagonian style throughout, making use of local materials with a particular emphasis on wood. Given the size of the lodge, there’s a surprising range of extra services – picnic lunches, massage, laundry, games for children and internet access are all offered, and there's even a small shop for picking up provisions.

Ismael 312 is the epitome of a contemporary concept in accommodation for visitors – the lifestyle hotel, offering a bit more than just a place to eat, sleep and relax.

Ismael 312 is a sleek, ultra-modern property reflecting the experience of urban-living in one of Santiago's up and coming, arty residential neighbourhoods.

In keeping with the aspired-to boutique ambience, the personalised service is excellent. The uncompromisingly minimalist interior features kooky chalk boards as walls and a glass-sided staircase - there is also a pleasant outside seating area where you can view the hustle and bustle of city life. All rooms are feature contemporary amenities such Wifi. The hotel, which offers parking and bikes to rent, faces the leafy Parque Forestal close to the historic centre and is within walking distance of cafés, restaurants, galleries and museums.