New spa opens in Chilean PatagoniaPuelo, Chile

For years, travellers have come to Chilean Patagonia for the hiking, rafting, fishing and scenery. Relaxation has generally been something that happened afterwards. That might be about to change.

The small town of Puelo, tucked away in Chile's ‘Green Patagonia’, is quietly positioning itself as the region's first true wellness destination thanks to the opening of Ritual Patagónico Spa.

Set beside a lagoon beneath the slopes of Yates Volcano, the new spa takes its cues from the wild landscape surrounding it. Think thermal wellness experiences, locally inspired treatments and relaxation spaces designed to encourage guests to slow down and reconnect with nature.

The opening is also the first stage of a major expansion at neighbouring hot spring complex Termas del Sol. By 2027, the attraction will more than double in size, adding 15 new thermal pools, hundreds of metres of boardwalks, a thermal water tower, amphitheatre, bar and event space.

It's a significant development for a destination that has largely flown under the radar compared to Patagonia's more famous hotspots.

That's changing quickly. Alongside the new wellness offerings, visitors can spend their days trekking through ancient rainforest, whitewater rafting, horseback riding with local gauchos or exploring the rivers, fjords and volcanoes that define this spectacular corner of Chile.

Located around two hours from Puerto Varas, Puelo has become one of Patagonia's fastest-rising destinations, with boutique lodges, cafés and restaurants steadily appearing among the forests and mountains.

The crowds haven't arrived yet. Which, for a wellness destination surrounded by volcanoes, glaciers and hot springs, might be its greatest luxury.

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