Casa Higueras, Valparaiso, Chile

Perched on Valparaiso’s steep hills with spectacular views over the bay, Casa Higueras is an elegant hotel with real character; a base for exploring this fascinating Chilean port and surroundings.

The hotel’s 20 rooms on 5 levels of a renovated 1920’s mansion are complimented by warm Chilean hospitality and fine cuisine. The tiered gardens feature a spa, sauna and swimming pool. The neighbourhood of Cerro Alegre is UNESCO World Heritage.

Valparaiso, regarded by many as the country’s most charming city, is a 1 ½ hour drive from Santiago through the vineyards of the Central Valley. A network of lifts and funiculars link the port and lower commercial areas with the slopes that are home to a colourful and eclectic mix of buildings and impressive viewpoints. www.casahigueras.cl