On a moonless night, radiant stars blink in startling proximity to Chile’s Elqui Valley. Cradled high up in the Andes Mountains and known for its clear skies, Elqui was named the world’s first International Dark Sky Sanctuary. There are many myths that try to explain Elqui’s mysticism, including energy vortexes. Whatever the reason, the valley has also become a holistic wellness hotspot that rivals Sedona or Ojai—but without the crowds.
Having lived in Chile and built a career around planning travel there, I can say with confidence that the Elqui Valley is a dream destination — whether you’re into wellness, stargazing, outdoor adventure, or simply want to experience some of the most stunning natural beauty on Earth. Here’s how to plan your trip.
Where to Stay
CasaMolle Hotel – Relais & Chateaux
An aerial view of the grounds at CasaMolle hotel.
The valley’s premier luxury hotel, Casa Molle, embodies Elqui’s wellness philosophy. Guests can meditate in a white quartz circle, enjoy the spa’s extensive treatments, and try music therapy or tarot. The hotel also features cactus gardens, a swanky pool, and wood-barrel tubs.
For optimal stargazing opportunities, spend a few nights glamping at Elqui Domos. The property’s seven geodesic domes and four observatory-type cabins feature beds positioned beneath large skylights. A reservable wooden-barrel hot tub allows for a private, relaxing soak beneath the stars.
What to Do
CasaMolle Hotel – Relais & Chateaux
CasaMolle offers plenty of spa and wellness experiences for guests.
The many spas and wellness centers in the valley offer relaxing massages, alternative therapies, and herbal baths in natural settings. There are also unique treatments, such as quartz bed therapy—lying on a bed filled with heated quartz—that attempt to harness the valley’s electromagnetic properties to relax muscles and balance energy. Elqui also has its fair share of spiritual activities, with plenty of options for yoga and meditation retreats. Casa Molle’s on-site spa offers unique opportunities like Tibetan bowl meditation, Ayurvedic massage, and “gemotherapy,” which uses gems to channel cosmic light to the body’s energy centers.
Between meditation and sound baths, tap into the restorative power of nature. Sunny days—over 300 per year—and a dry climate make for pleasant hiking, forest bathing, biking, and horseback riding. Travelers can pick their ideal pace, from gentle walks to pulse-quickening mountain treks.
Once the sun goes down, spend time under some of the clearest skies in the world. Stargazing can offer a renewed perspective on life. At Elqui Domos, onsite observatories with Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes let you get a little closer to the stars, while the Mamalluca and Pangue observatories both provide exceptional “noctourism” tours.
Where to Eat
CasaMolle Hotel – Relais & Chateaux
CasaMolle’s hotel restaurant serves farm-to-table meals.
The Elqui Valley’s fertile soil and sunny weather lend themselves to bountiful, nourishing harvests. Local produce shines in traditional Chilean dishes such as cabrito al jugo a la cazuela (a goat stew); fresh ceviche; and pebre (a spicy salsa of herbs, onions, and tomatoes).
Experience farm-to-table dining during your stay at Casa Molle’s restaurant, where Chef Sebastián Massida creates contemporary cuisine inspired by the region’s culinary traditions.
For an innovative, eco-conscious option, try Delicias del Sol, a pioneering solar-powered restaurant that harnesses Elqui’s reliable sunshine to create traditional Chilean dishes.
Finally, don’t forget to visit the area’s high-altitude wineries; solar-powered breweries; and artisan pisco, or grape brandy, distilleries.
Emma Fritz is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in Chile trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Fritz by contacting her at emma@extraordinaryjourneys.com.
Read the original article on Travel & Leisure