July 23, 2024
Patagonia: Discover Two Countries In One
Patagonia, a stunning gem in South America stretching from Chile to Argentina, is a must-see destination teeming with fjords, glaciers, deserts, lakes, mountains, and vast untouched nature. This expansive, beautiful region is best experienced from September to February, during the continent’s spring and summer.
At its southernmost tip, the resort town of Ushuaia offers a feeling of standing at the world’s end. Both the Chilean and Argentinian sides have spectacular areas to explore – let True North guide you to the experiences and accommodations that align with your aspirations.
In Chile, Torres del Paine National Park is the must-see with trails on the famous W-route that can be done as day hikes taking visitors past peaks reaching 8,200 feet above sea level. Day hikes can end with a scenic ferry return — past mind-blowing glaciers and the Southern Ice fields. The fishing in the region is magnificent, too, expert guides are found at Rio Palena Lodge, a billionaire’s paradise that’s part of the Eleven luxury lodges, nestled in a mountain valley on the banks of the Palena River. (In the winter, the heli-skiing here is unparalleled.)
On the Argentinian side, explore the Perito Moreno Glacier with crampons, or take in its chilly grandeur from the water on a boat cruise. The village of El Chaltren, found in the UNESCO-ranked Los Glaciares National Park, is where you gear up before hiking closer to the peaks of Fitz Roy and reaching the Laguna de los Tres viewpoint. If you want to extend your stay in this magnificent area consider eco-dome glamping, with panoramic views of Fitz Roy, just six miles outside of town. For a more glam stay, the Relais & Chateaux finery of the 17-room Eolo lodge offers a tranquil escape.
For an urban fix, make the charming four-season town of Bariloche, Argentina your base. Travel & Leisure magazine recently crowned it Patagonia’s “most charming town.” It’s also considered the chocolate capital of the country, so make sure to pick up a few artisanal bars while exploring the main shopping street, La Calle Mitre. Visit July through September if you are a skier – nearby, Cerro Catedral is a large and modern ski resort. Summer visitors can enjoy the natural charms of Nahuel Huapi National Park, where the largest and deepest lake of the region has long lured outdoor explorers.
A trip to Patagonia ensures adventure and awe are on your itinerary no matter what time of year you visit
Maximizing Your Mini Vacation
If you’ve just time for a short escape from your day to day, True North Travel has some ideas where five days may be all you need.
Dublin, Ireland
Delve into the craic of this ancient city, brimming with castles, cathedrals, and pubs. Take in Irish history at the Epic Immigration Museum or the downtown’s plentiful free museums, including the popular Natural History Museum. Revel in the music of cozy pubs, plunge into Temple Bar’s lively heart, and cap off with a pint at the iconic Guinness Storehouse, savoring city views. The cherry on top? U.S. pre-clearance at Dublin’s airport streamlines your journey home.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Explore the northernmost capital in the world, nestled between mountains and sea. Visit the architectural marvel of Hallgrímskirkja, and immerse in Viking history at the National Museum of Iceland. Sample local specialties in Reykjavik’s innovative food scene and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife. Just outside, the Golden Circle route offers a day trip filled with geothermal wonders and majestic waterfalls. Unwind at the end in the world-famous Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters.
Punta Mita, Mexico
With its pristine beaches and upscale resorts, it’s a haven for relaxation and high-end leisure. Here, you can tee off on championship golf courses, explore the biodiverse Marietas Islands, or bask on the breathtaking Playa Destiladeras. Delight in the local food scene, a fusion of indigenous flavors and global cuisine, and soak up the vibrant culture in traditional Huichol craft shops and bustling beachfront fish markets. In Punta Mita, every moment promises an unforgettable Mexican escapade.
