Frommer's Review
The minute you arrive here, you know you've come upon something special. Perhaps it is the Antumalal's unique Bauhaus design and its lush, exotic gardens, or perhaps it's the sumptuous view of sunset on Lake Villarrica seen nightly through the hotel's picture windows or from its wisteria-roofed deck. Either way, this is simply one of the most lovely and unique hotels in Chile. Low-slung and literally built into a rocky slope, the Antumalal was designed to blend with its natural environment. The lounge is a standout, with walls made of glass and slabs of araucaria wood, goatskin rugs, tree-trunk lamps, and couches built of iron and white rope. It's retro-chic and exceptionally cozy, and the friendly, personal attention provided by the staff heightens a sense of intimacy with one's surroundings. The rooms are all the same size, and they are very comfortable, with honeyed-wood walls; a fireplace; a big, comfortable bed; and large panoramic windows that look out onto the same gorgeous view. Guests don't just walk into a room; they sink into it. The bathrooms have all been renovated recently and are sparkling clean. There's also a Royal Cottage for rent that comes with two bedrooms, a living room, and fireplace -- perfect for families or as a romantic bungalow for two.
The owners are very involved in the day-to-day management of the hotel and will sit down with guests to help them plan their stay and arrange for any special requests. The bar is especially interesting, with high-backed leather chairs and a stone fireplace, and the dining room not only serves up a spectacular view, but it also serves some of the best food in Pucón. Well-kept terraced gardens zigzag down the lakeshore, where guests have use of a private beach. A kidney-shape pool is half-hidden under a lawn-covered roof, and the tennis courts are a short walk away. It's all fit for a queen -- indeed, Queen Elizabeth II graced the hotel with her presence several decades ago, as did Jimmy Stewart and Barry Goldwater.
Facilities:
Restaurant (Antumalal); bar; lounge; small outdoor pool; tennis court; room service; massage; laundry service
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
