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&Beyond's very first venture into Latin America, Vira Vira has all their top-tier trademarks including a simple yet utterly tasteful style and a deep-rooted conservation ethos. Sitting amidst a sprawling alpine estate, the lodge enjoys 822 metres of river frontage and views of the snow-topped Villarrica Volcano - to be enjoyed whilst soaking in one of the alfresco hot tubs, of course. Amenities aside, you could easily stay a week thanks to Vira Vira's excellent list of activities, whether it's hiking through forests of 1000-year-old trees, horseback rides with a real Chilean cowboy (huaso), or skiing down an active volcano.
From $890 person/night
The all-encompassing (but never over-bearing) luxury in what feels like one of the most remote places on Earth.
If it's winter-specific outings you're after, &Beyond offers heli-skiing, biking, fishing and flights between November and March.
Families with children under six years old will have to look elsewhere as the environment and activities don't cater to them.
Built in honey-coloured wood, the communal areas are square and very cosy with enormous windows that frame views of the river, lagoon and evergreen forests. Inside, you'll find contemporary art, authentic tapestries, and traditional Mapuche pieces that create a sense of place. The food is fantastic, using homegrown or locally-sourced ingredients for buffet breakfasts and three-course lunches and dinners. The sommelier will also happily recommend one of their Chilean wines. On some nights, there are outdoor barbecues or, for more privacy, book the interactive Ruka kitchen.
Across the property, there are six lagoon-facing suites and 12 riverfront villas. With handwoven wall decor and floor-to-ceiling windows, the rooms were designed to showcase the beauty outside. The villas are split-level with a separate living room, wood-burning fireplace and plenty of blankets to keep you cosy. The suites open onto a private terrace, an idyllic spot to enjoy a morning cuppa or Pisco Sour whilst watching lava glow from a far-off volcano. There is also a self-contained hacienda with five bedrooms, a private chef and a guide.
What can't you do? There are endless trekking and hiking trails throughout Villarrica National Park, whether you're after a gut-busting summit with views of the Andes, or tranquil forest excursions to the numerous waterfalls. There's also horseback rides across the prairies, white water rafting and kayaking trips across a glacier lake. &Beyond's own helictoper offers skiing, snowboarding and biking in virgin snow, scenic flights, and clandestine soaks in a thermal spring. Back at the lodge, there are muscle-soothing massages and tours of the on-site cheese house.
A pioneer in sustainable tourism since 1991, &Beyond aims to expand its impact by 2030. Through partnerships and doubling investment, they have set a target of conserving 40 million acres of key biospheres while offering exclusive travel experiences. By doubling revenue and tripling profit, they seek to leave a positive footprint in Africa, Asia, and South America, empowering communities and preserving wildlife.