This 189-room property is Ritz Carlton’s first in South America and the emphasis throughout is on luxury, comfort and unrivalled service. Located in the heart of the El Golf neighbourhood, the hotel offers fine dining and ‘Wine 365’ where guests can choose from over 300 wines representing more than 100 Chilean vineyards. There is a magnificent glass-domed fitness centre and spa with huge windows overlooking the Andes.

This hotel – at the heart of Santa Cruz – has become a destination its own right. Noted for its appeal to wine lovers, Santa Cruz is close to the vineyards of Colchagua Valley. The four-star Santa Cruz Plaza blends into the town’s landscape with its mellow mustard wash and ironwork window terraces reminiscent of colonial Mexico. Its 85 rooms are tastefully decorated and the hotel is noted for its fine dining.

On a lakeside setting, Villarrica Park Lake is a five star property combining local charm with European flair and understated luxury. The 69 rooms and suites mix traditional materials with modern comforts and there is a wonderful spa and gym, a bar and restaurant. Villaricca is at the heart of the breathtaking Lake District with thermal springs and the indigenous Mapuche culture all waiting to be discovered.

Patagonia is romance, adventure and the great outdoors combined in one fabulous destination and Explora Salto Chico provides a superb base from which to explore. Strategically set on the shore of Lake Pehoé, the hotel was conceived as an exploration base and features 50 rooms and suites that effortlessly combine home comforts with stunning views, while fine food and wine abound.

Close to the centre of San Pedro de Atacama – an ancient site that for thousands of years has provided an oasis for travellers – Awasi Lodge is a colonial inn with seven bedrooms and five suites. Elegant yet unpretentious, one of the main attractions is the superb activity programme including horseriding and excursions by bicycle and mini bus – all of which are designed to inspire the emotions and evoke the spirit of the Atacama Desert.

This superb property comprising nine traditionally furnished rooms spread over two casas. From the openair jacuzzis and mouth-watering barbecues through to an extensive activity schedule taking in spectacular archaeological and religious sites and stunning coastline, Explora Casas Rapa Nui provides a comfortable base to explore a Pacific island lost in the mysteries of origin.