It is the second largest island in South America (after Tierra del Fuego) measuring 467 kilometers from north to south. The coastal mountains cross its entire length, creating two completely different environments. Towards the Pacific, the coast receives constant winds from the ocean and heavy rainfalls, so there is abundant vegetation. Facing the continent, the island’s microclimate allows for human life with all its folklore and varied mythology, its cuisine (such as the typical curanto) and all necessary agricultural crops. With their maritime tradition, these people built most of their homes on palafitos (pillars of wood that hold the house above the water) which are one of the island’s emblems, together with its characteristic wool handicrafts.

All those who visit Chiloé are charmed by its beauty. This is a place where exuberant nature goes hand-in-hand with friendly people whose assets include 150 churches and chapels built by Jesuits Missionaries during the XVIII and XIX centuries and which are now recognized as a World Heritage. In the inner sea, between the island and the continent, there are a number of small islands separated by channels that can be reached by boat or kayak. Some are so close together that, in the ebb tide, it is possible to walk from one island to another.

If you are looking for a place to stay you can check Refugia. The hotel only has 12 rooms and it is located on top of a hill a few kilometers away from the Rilan peninsula,on the bank of the Pullao wetland where thousands of migratory birds nest every year on their way to Tierra del Fuego and Alaska and in front of the Corcovado, Chaiten and Michimahuida volcanos.

Now LAN Chile offers semi direct flights to Chiloé from Santiago and if you need to rent a car check our offers at www.autoturistica.com.

Photo Source: urdesign.it