One of the most exciting journeys of my life began with an overnight flight to Santiago, where I hopped on another plane which would deliver me to one of the most spectacular destinations in the world – Patagonia. The journey takes time, but it’s worth every minute spent to get there. Upon arrival, I knew I was somewhere otherworldly. From my transfer van, I gazed out at the open plains along a two lane highway that ultimately led to a new hotel called The Singular.  Its arrival in Patagonia opens up a new luxury option in a part of the world with only a handful of upscale choices available to the discerning traveler.

The Singular is situated just a few minutes away from the charming harbor town of Puerto Natales. The property used to be a sheep processing plant (of all things!), and a large part of the original operations have been painstakingly preserved, as the hotel was recently named a Chilean national monument. The modern architecture and chic decor of the newly added hotel section somehow blend with a factory of long ago to create one of the most unique hotels I’ve personally visited.

The full board plan most guests opt for is an excellent value, as all meals, drinks, airport transfers, and activities with bilingual guides are included. The activity choices are vast – it would be easy to spend a week here and not see it all! Torres del Paine National Park cannot be missed, and there are simply no words to describe its beauty. Trekking is a main activity there, as this is the best way to take in the spectacular landscape.

Upon return, I opted to spend some time at The Singular’s fantastic spa. There are plenty of treatment choices, but my favorite part of the experience was lounging in front of the floor to ceiling wall of glass which overlooked the fjords.  It was a stunning view, only made better by the black necked geese swimming right in front of me at the water’s edge.  Guests can get even closer to them by taking a dip in the indoor/outdoor heated pool.

My second day started at the hotel pier, where I boarded one of The Singular’s boats for a ride through the Patagonian Fjords and ultimately to the Serrano Glacier. Along the way, I saw waterfalls, sea lions, unreachable glaciers high in the mountains, and a landscape so dramatic that I couldn’t stop snapping pictures.

Ready for a trail ride