Don Los Cerros, El Chaltén, Argentina
El Chalten is a true outdoor mecca for hiking and climbing. Once a mere gaucho outpost, this small town inside Los Glaciares National Park has steadily grown to become the home to about 3,000 people and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful mountain landscape in Patagonia, if not the world. In its backyard are several spectacular day hikes on trails that reach the base of the iconic mountains Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. And like a royal palace overlooking its domain, perched on a small hill with birds-eye vistas of privileged El Chalten and the Patagonian Andes is Don Los Cerros.
Don Los Cerros does not just standout in El Chalten because of its prime location. Although the town caters almost entirely to tourism, this is one of the few upscale options available here and it is a worthy upgrade for those who are after more than just a comfortable room and bed. More mountain lodge than your standard hotel, there are common areas throughout, including a small spa with two hot tubs. But its the large common area on the main floor, which triples as a bar, living room and restaurant, that is the most attractive spot; it’s cozy sofas and chairs, rustic wood ceilings and tables, and the plate glass windows facing the picturesque mountain valley, make it a relaxing place for eating, drinking or hanging out.
This is a boutique hotel, with 44 spacious rooms with modern yet rustic décor, big hydromassage tubs to soak your bones after hikes and comfy beds. If you can, definitely opt for the superior rooms facing the river and mountains. For me, what made this a 5-star hotel was not its facilities though, it was the friendly staff that was always helpful and attentive.
It’s not easy to get to El Chalten, and because in winter things slow down considerably, Don Los Cerros is only open five months per year, from November through the end of March. If you prefer day hikes with creature comforts in town over a snug tent and warm sleeping bag on the trails, then this is a good way to do it.