Sharky Mountain Retreat: Huilo-Huilo Montana Magica Lodge

The next best thing to the Shire

It’s a scene straight out of a storybook. Picture it: hidden in the heart of the Huilo-Huilo Biological Preserve in southern Chile, a towering rocky, moss-covered crag with a misty waterfall cascading down the side rises out of the Patagonian rainforest like a magic mountain.

You have arrived at the Montaña Mágica (Spanish for “Magic Mountain). The Montaña Mágica hotel is more Tolkien than Mann, with a healthy dose of Grimm Brothers thrown in for good measure. It’s picture-perfect and magical.

Look quick! You might catch a glimpse of some kind of rainforest elf peering out from behind one of the guestroom windows, which jut out like organic growths on the mountainside.

The hotel itself combines a rustic aesthetic with authentic luxury, including rooms paneled in native wood, breathtaking views, a convention room that holds up to 200 people, and a spa with heated pool and massage services. There’s even a fun center for kids ages 4-12 that provides structured daily activities.

Want even more magic? Step outside. You are in the middle of nearly 250 acres of protected Patagonian rainforest. Spend the day hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, fly fishing, skiing, or relaxing in a hot spring.

Like most fairytales, the bittersweet part is the ending. But don’t worry—you can commission a house of your very own, custom-built on the reserve. Or you could just come back next year. Either way, we think you’ll all live happily ever after.

Stay in this hotel if: You’ve always wanted to visit the Lord of the Rings movie set.

Don’t stay in this hotel if: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter just isn't your thing.