Chile’s leading hot-springs resort, the luxurious Termas de Puyuhuapi Hotel & Spa sits in a lush forest on the western shore of the Seno Ventisquero. Access is by boat only. Buildings combine the rustic look of Chilote palafitos (houses on stilts) with Bavarian influences. Most guests book package vacations, making one-night reservations sometimes scarce. Boat transfers are included.
Three outdoor baths, including a fern-shaded hot-mud lagoon, sit right by the water, allowing visitors to soak and steam away then jump into the cool sound. The indoor spa is more elaborate but less ambient. Families frequent its cold-water pools, Jacuzzis and one large pool with different jets. Spa treatments and massages cost extra.
Day use is not offered in high season (January and February) or during high occupancy. Day-trippers get use of the outdoor pools (CH$50,000), transportation and lunch. Food is served at the hotel restaurant and a cheaper cafe.
Access via boat from the BahÃa Dorita mainland dock, 13km south of Puerto Puyuhuapi. Launches leave between 10am and 6pm.