Eric Schirmer
Google
Our trip to Patagonia was based on a week-long stay at the El Mirador de Guadal Lodge y Restaurante. This is a ‘magical’ place.
The landscapes are too beautiful for our eyes; the vibrancy of color from the boldest turquoise rivers to the lush green grass forest to the rainbow of colored buildings in town, everywhere you look is more jaw dropping than the next. The restaurant food is exceptional from start to finish like smoked salmon tastings to mushroom tortellini to the melt in your mouth desserts such as crème brulée or chocolate mousse. The quiet secluded cabins are perfect for getting back to nature. I arose each morning in the San Valentin suite to nature’s paint by number landscape view that changed colors by the minute; first the pink clouds, then the sun touching the icy peaks, then lighting the grays and shadows of the rock below, and finally the icy waters changing all colors of blue.
Physical activities included horseback riding to a waterfall, seeing Guanacos at Patagonia National Park, kayaking Lake Beltrand, hiking to the confluence of Rivers Baker and Neff, exploring a derelict forgotten mine, spotting Andean condors soaring above the majestic Marble caves, and traversing a rain forest for a spectacular glacial view.
Leisure activities included walks along the Lake General Carrera pebbly shoreline, relaxing in the comfortable bed with a toasty fire, petting the friendly dogs, photographing owls, bats, and parrots in the surrounding trees, and strolling through the quaint town of Puerto Guadal.
All the views, lodging, food, and activities are top notch, but the ‘magic’ comes from the people. The entire staff were polite and took great care of us, but beyond that they were so friendly, supportive, and welcoming that by the end felt like family. I really cannot say thanks enough, we enjoyed every minute of it. To those in the planning stages, reading this, one word, GO!
Best regards,
Eric & Emily
