Five thumb hotels by region
Take a look at the hotels that have consistently delivered to the highest levels. These hotel are not necessarily selected for their star rating but more for "getting it right"!
Argentina
Awasi Iguazu
Awasi Iguazu is a new, luxury option, in and around the Iguazu Falls on the Argentine side of the border. Owned and operated by the Awasi chain (who operate a couple of the best properties in Chile, the Awasi Atacama and the Awasi Patagonia) this is a very classy new option and has shaken up the... More... Our rating:
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Eolo Hotel
The Eolo Hotel, Patagonia, is one of the select group of hotels in Argentina that have been awarded membership of the Relais and Chateau group, it is easy to see why. Set outside of El Calafate, Eolo is perched on the side of a sweeping, Patagonian landscape that, due to the clever design of the... More... Our rating:
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Entre Cielos
Entre Cielos aims high…and delivers. For us it is a fantastic property with vast grounds and views of the cordillera mountain range resembling somewhat a contemporary art centre with a 1960’s chic aesthetic. The industrial concrete walls, strong colour palette and statement furniture may not your... More... Our rating:
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Hotel Legado Mitico
A superb little hotel, nestling right in the heart of the infamous Palermo Viejo district, the Hotel Legado Mitico, Buenos Aires offers a quirky and intimate view of the city. Each of the large rooms has been styled with a different, famous Argentine in mind, with iconic nick nacks and photos... More... Our rating:
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Las Balsas Gourmet Hotel & Spa
Las Balsas Gourmet Hotel & Spa, a member of the elite Relais & Chateau Hotels, really is a treat! While it looks very much like it should have been a family home, it was, in fact designed always as a hotel. I guess this fact gives an idea as to what to expect…a home from home. Set... More... Our rating:
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Aguas Arriba Lodge
One of the most special places in Argentinian Patagonia, Aguas Arriba Lodge is a remote mountain lodge offering guaranteed peace and isolation. With views of hanging glaciers and the impressive Mount Fitz Roy from its windows, it’s an idyllic spot for relaxing and doing some superb walking. Our rating:
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Cavas Wine Lodge
Arguably the most famous lodge in Argentina, the Cavas Wine Lodge has become an institution in the Mendoza for its high standards, exceptional food and stunning location…and its price! Set in beautiful vineyards each of these quirky cabins has its own rooftop area in which to lounge and take in the... More... Our rating:
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Estancia Cristina
A secluded lodge with exclusive access to the Upsala Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park, Estancia Cristina is one of the more difficult places to get to in and around El Calafate but is more than worth the effort once you do. Offering a range of activities and an insight into the history of... More... Our rating:
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Estancia El Colibri
Estancia El Colibri is the top of the pile, both for price and for the level of comfort. Unlike the other two estancias in the Cordoba region, the building was purpose built for tourism and so it has allowed them to pull all the stops out. Also unlike the other two, the estancia is located in the... More... Our rating:
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Estancia Rincon Chico
Our preferred estancia on the Peninsular, the Estancia Rincon Chico is a great place to get a feel for what it is all about, coming to this area of the world. The focus here is on privacy and intimate views of the wildlife of this beautiful area. Making use of their private beach and large property... More... Our rating:
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Llao Llao Resort and Spa
The legend that is Llao Llao Resort and Spa is located on its own peninsular about 30 mins from the centre of town, surrounded by stunning national park and its own international golf course. To try and write a succinct summary of all that the hotel offers is not going to be possible in this short... More... Our rating:
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Park Hyatt, Palacio Duhau
Located in the wealthy Recoleta district, the Palacio Duhau - Park Hyatt is probably our pick of the larger, upmarket hotels in the capital. Originally a vast townhouse, the hotel cleverly mixes the old with the new, allowing guests to opt for either one of the more lavish original rooms, or for... More... Our rating:
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Puerto Valle
At just an hour’s drive from Posadas airport, Puerto Valle is a 13 room hotel at the northern edge of the Iberá Wetlands. For those wanting to enjoy a higher-level of comfort and to avoid a lengthy long road transfer into the Esteros, Puerto Valle is a superb choice and promises excellent wildlife... More... Our rating:
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Don Los Cerros Boutique Hotel
Positioned atop a small hill, right in the centre of town, the Don Los Cerros Boutique Hotel is, arguably, the best accommodation in El Chalten. At around 45 rooms, all with wide windows and comfortable furniture, it certainly offers a quiet haven to relax and unwind after one of the many walks in... More... Our rating:
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Hotel Legado Mitico
As with its sister hotel in Buenos Aires, we are huge fans of the Legado Mitico, Salta. Set just a couple of blocks from the main square, this elegant and intimate town house offers outstanding accommodation and service at affordable prices. Use it as a base from which to explore this friendly... More... Our rating:
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Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa
Located at around 5 minutes drive out of the town, Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa is one of two fantastic hotels in the area. Designed along the lines of a ski chalet, using plenty of warm yellow Lenga wood in its construction, the hotel offers a great variety of food, activities and overall luxury... More... Our rating:
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Patios de Cafayate
Certainly the pick of the accommodation in and around Cafayate, the Patios de Cafayate is a superb hotel that offers old world luxury with outstanding views, facilities and food. Located in its own working vineyard, you are given the feeling of total seclusion while being only a couple of minutes... More... Our rating:
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Rincon del Socorro
Certainly the best of the properties around the Esteros, the Rincon del Socorro is loosely based around the concept of an estancia, with a series of buildings dispersed around the main building which has the dining area and relaxing areas. The buildings themselves have a veranda area that runs... More... Our rating:
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The Vines Resort & Spa
The Vines is a property unlike any other in Mendoza. It reminds us a little of Awasi Patagonia in Chile in architectural terms and Tierra Hotels for its informal approach but very dedicated service. The villas here are not as isolated but the resort does have an exiting full program of activities... More... Our rating:
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Loi Suites Iguazu Hotel
Definitely the pick of the hotels in and around the falls for our money, the Loi Suites Iguazu are a really quality choice. Located in a newer development just out side of the town, the hotel is set in amongst the rainforest, with a series of interlinking pools and communal areas. It is true that... More... Our rating:
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The Territorio Hotel
Far and away the best hotel in the Puerto Madryn area, the Territorio Hotel offers modern and comfortable accommodation while making the most of the stunning views out across the famous bay. All of the rooms in this modern hotel offer uninterrupted seaviews from the bed and the bath, and, with a... More... Our rating:
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Alvear Palace Hotel
The Alvear Palace Hotel is one of the truly old world hotels in the capital, and is a Buenos Aires institution, and rightly so. With its high levels of service and marble covered foyer it is still one of the best places in the capital to spend a few nights if you are looking for this lavish feel.... More... Our rating:
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Estancia Huechahue
A family-owned estancia in Northern Patagonia, Estancia Huechahue is set in 15,000-acres of land in the foothills of the Andes. Offering a genuine insight into life on a working cattle farm and all the challenges that come with it, it has excellent riding and access to some of the best fly-fishing... More... Our rating:
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Hosteria La Casa de Eugenia
As far as hosterias (lodges) go, this little property ticks most boxes with a high boutique appeal. A former National parks administration office built in 1927 and one of the first in town, the house is listed as a national heritage building and has been running as a B&B since 1997. The lodge... More... Our rating:
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Hosteria Los Notros
Undoubtedly the most famous hotel in and around El Calafate, Los Notros Hotel offers one the best, natural views in all of Argentina, with the full southern face of the Perito Moreno glacier a few hundred meters away. Along with this, the hotel prides itself on its level of food, comfort and... More... Our rating:
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Algodon Mansion
Located just 3 blocks from Recoleta Cemetery, the Relais & Chateaux Algodon Mansion oozes class without too much exuberance and so retaining a welcoming and relaxed ambience. There are plenty of in-house facilities to enjoy once all the city sightseeing activities are over. It is hard to fault... More... Our rating:
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House of Jasmines
A stunning estancia sitting in the hills above Salta, the House of Jasmines is owned and managed by the same couple that own the excellent Estancia el Colibri down in Cordoba. The feeling of this charming property is truly one of being out in this beautiful region and having a home from home. Along... More... Our rating:
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Hub Porteno
This property will appeal to clients in search of something a little bit special in the myriad of boutique properties which have sprung up in town in quick succession recently. Hub Porteno can be summed up as an Art Deco chic hotel where you’re not just staying, but have the chance to interact... More... Our rating:
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Hosteria Kaulem
The Hosteria Kaulem is a great little 4 bed hotel located on the second street of the town. Simple inside, they have tried to make a feature of the large windows and sky view that they have in the main areas, that really bring the nature in and give it a welcoming feel. The rooms are, again,... More... Our rating:
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Chile
Explora Rapa Nui
For a number of years, Explora Rapa Nui stood head and shoulders above the competition on Rapa Nui, almost like one of the giant Moai statues to which visitors flock to see. More recently, other luxury hotels have opened on the island; yet Explora arguably remains the top pick. We believe that... More... Our rating:
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Hotel AWA
Hotel Awa is an architectural marvel with breathtaking view of the Osorno volcano from its secluded position on the shoreline of Lake Llanquihue. After 2 ½ years of construction, Awa opened its doors in November 2016 and has become the place to stay for those looking to treat themselves whilst... More... Our rating:
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Ecuador
Hotel del Parque
This opulent hotel resides in Guayaquil’s Parque Histórico (Historic Park). Built on the bank of the Rio Daule and surrounded by the botanical gardens of the park, Hotel del Parque is a tranquil haven in Ecuador’s most populous city. The hotel has a fascinating history: Originally built in 1890,... More... Our rating:
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Sacha Lodge
Located in the largest private reserve in the Ecuadorian Amazon, Sacha Lodge now owns nearly 5,000 acres of pristine rainforest. Not only does this provide a vast conservation area, free from mining, drilling, hunting and logging; it offers guests an incredible and authentic Amazon experience.... More... Our rating:
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Mashpi Lodge
Mashpi lodge must be seen to be believed. Built on the site of a former timber mill, this architectural marvel is surrounded by 2,500 acres of pristine Cloud forest reserve. Incredibly, not a single tree was felled in creating the property or the single access road. The visionary owner – former... More... Our rating:
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Napo Wildlife Center Ecolodge
Napo Wildlife Ecolodge offers a luxurious stay in the privileged, Amazonian setting of the Yasuni National Park – Ecuador’s largest protected area. Since 2003, the property has been run by and for the local Kichwa Añangu inhabitants; balancing an authentic, exclusive experience for guests and... More... Our rating:
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Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel
Our pick of the hotels on Isla Isabela. The Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel is the newest property in Puerto Villamil and, for us, delivers on all fronts. Located on a beautiful beach, you really can sit and watch iguanas crossing the golden sand dunes; all from the comfort of the picturesque... More... Our rating:
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Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel
The luxurious Finch Bay Hotel is rightfully listed on the prestigious National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, and is certainly one of our favourite properties found in the Galapagos. There are countless reasons choose this hotel for your stay in the Enchanted Islands, especially for... More... Our rating:
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Illa Experience Hotel
A beautifully restored 10-bedroom property that dates back over 300 years, the Illa Experience Hotel flawlessly blends colonial history and contemporary design. The hotel embraces its San Marcos neighbourhood location, famous for the artistic community that has thrived in this part of the city’s... More... Our rating:
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Casa Gangotena
This lavish hotel have prime location on Plaza de San Francisco, overlooking the bustling square and imposing Baroque church of the same name. Whilst most the original colonial mansion was destroyed in a fire in 1914, the property was gloriously rebuilt over the next decade by Quito’s esteemed... More... Our rating:
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M/C Endemic
What sets this luxury yacht apart from its competitors is the staggeringly size of the cabins – over 340sq. ft. of your own space. At times, it is easy to forget you are on a boat! The best way to remind yourself that you are, is to step out onto the cabin’s equally roomy, private balcony and take... More... Our rating:
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Galapagos Safari Camp
The Galapagos Safari Camp goes far beyond just impressive tents to deliver an extraordinary experience. Set in the heart of Santa Cruz’s highlands on a 120-acre former farm, the property excels in responsible luxury and responsible travel. The camp is respectfully designed to have a minimal... More... Our rating:
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Hotel Plaza Grande
This majestic, opulent hotel surely wins the ‘best location’ accolade, sitting, as it does, on one corner of Quito’s main square – Plaza de la Independencia (also known as Plaza Grande). Sharing the square is the Presidential palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, Archbishop’s palace and City Hall; very... More... Our rating:
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Pikaia Lodge
The location, design and execution of Pikaia Lodge is nothing short of spectacular. Set atop an extinct volcano crater, carpeted in lush vegetation, the views over Santa Cruz island and across to Santa Fe Island really are captivating…especially from the comfort of the infinity pool! With two... More... Our rating:
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The M/C Elite
Since its maiden voyage in June 2019, the Elite has set the bar for luxury travel with eco-credentials in the Galapagos. Like her sister ship – the Endemic – the Elite is owned, operated and built by an Ecuadorian team boasting decades of experience in the tourism, conservation and maritime... More... Our rating:
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Golden Bay Galapagos Hotel
Apart from the risk of losing your sunlounger to a sea lion, the Golden Bay Galapagos hotel is the ideal place to stay and enjoy the charms of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The property overlooks Playa de Oro (Golden Beach); and it is hard to find a more enjoyable experience in town than sitting in the... More... Our rating:
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The M/Y Grace
The Grace is steeped in history and offers Old World charm combined with modern-day technology. The yacht was built back in the 1920’s and boasts a remarkable sequence of chapters in her life; from a party-boat for the super wealthy to being utilised by the British Navy during WWII (Churchill’s... More... Our rating:
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M/V Origin
The Origin and her identical sister ship (The Theory) are the only luxury yachts operating in the Galapagos with the famed Relais & Châteaux affiliation. Therefore passengers are assured a high standard of comfort and service, with exceptional cuisine to boot. All the social areas, as well as... More... Our rating:
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M/V Theory
The Theory and her identical sister ship (The Origin) are the only luxury yachts operating in the Galapagos with the famed Relais & Châteaux affiliation. Therefore passengers are assured a high standard of comfort and service, with exceptional cuisine to boot. All the social areas, as well as... More... Our rating:
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Colombia
Hacienda Bambusa
When it comes to immersing oneself in Colombia’s premium coffee region, Hacienda Bambusa really does have it all. This beautiful, 8-bedroom property’s tranquil setting is a private estate bursting with cacao, banana, plantain & lemon trees and an abundance of birdlife. There are plenty of... More... Our rating:
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Hotel de la Opera
Hotel de la Opera consists of two separates houses: One from the Colonial period of the 1800s; and the other built during the Art Deco movement in the 1940s. The result is a fascinating hybrid with centuries of history. Indeed, it is claimed that the original colonial house accommodated the... More... Our rating:
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Four Seasons Casa Medina
The Four Seasons Casa Medina offers the perfect blend of historic architecture with contemporary design. Built in 1945 and converted into a hotel in 1988, Casa Medina has the distinction of being declared a monument of culture by the Colombian Ministry of Culture. From the imposing façade that... More... Our rating:
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Casa Legado
Casa Legado feels like home. Not your actual home, but the home you wish you had! Tucked away in the peaceful, quirky district of Quinta Camacho, Casa Legado offers 7 uniquely luxurious rooms (the owner Helena, is an interior designer) all inspired by the core theme of the property – family.... More... Our rating:
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Hotel Cosmos Ananda
Hotel Cosmos Ananda is a beautifully restored 16th-century townhouse in the heart of Cartagena’s picturesque walled city. Featuring just 23 spacious rooms and suites, the property is a peaceful sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of Cartagena’s mesmerising cobbled streets. With a spa and two... More... Our rating:
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Hotel Las Islas
Hotel Las Islas is an enchanting, beachfront property in the forest of Isla Baru, which can only be accessed via boat or helicopter. This oasis of Caribbean serenity can leave you somewhat speechless – an incredible design where you can chose to live and dine in the treetops or down at beach... More... Our rating:
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Tierra del Fuego
Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa
There is no doubt that when the Arakur Hotel was conceived, it was to ruffle the feathers of the other high end properties of the region and to try and challenge the Alpine style of the competition. The imposing granite and copper structure sits atop the hills at the edge of town, looking down... More... Our rating:
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Brazil
Belmond Hotel das Cataratas
Owned and managed by the superb Belmond chain, Hotel das Cataratas is the only alternative to the Melia Hotel that has views to the falls themselves. Being on the Brazilian side means that, arguably, the views themselves are even better than from the Argentine side and so, it is logical, that the... More... Our rating:
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Las Pampas
Estancia la Bamba de Areco
Estancia la Bamba de Areco is one of the oldest and still most famous Estancias that is left in the Pampas region outside of Buenos Aires. Where many of the traditional working ranches of this region have faded into the annals of history, La Bamba has successfully managed to re-invent itself into... More... Our rating:
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Estancia La Bandada (Formerly Candelaria del Monte)
The homely and inviting “Estancia La Bandada” (they have recently changed their name from La Candelaria del Monte) is one of the new genre of Estancia that has started to come to the fore on the southern fringes of Buenos Aires. Rather than offering the traditional ‘estancia’ type experience where... More... Our rating:
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