Arakur, Ushuaia

Location

Perched on a natural balcony, 800 feet above sea level in the Reserva Natural Cerro Alarkén, Arakur is just minutes from Ushuaia’s centre. But, instead of the bustle of the adventure hub that is ‘the world’s southernmost city’, the hotel is surrounded by panoramic views of native forests and natural terraces. You’ll find the international airport within easy reach along with ski resorts, golf clubs and the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Here, hiking trails lead you past waterfalls, glaciers and mountains in search of foxes, beavers and Andean condors. You’ll also find opportunities to kayak, sail and even scuba dive nearby.

Accommodation

Thanks to a sustainable architectural design, the Arakur Resort and Spa blends into the hillside with its green, angled roof, itself framed by stark rock faces. On entry, guests are greeted with grand lobby filled with fireplaces picked out against an interior of wood, stone and natural fabrics. Modern rooms feature hardwood floors made from native lenga wood, contemporary furnishings and oversized headboards as large windows invite views of either the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia City to the south or the valleys and mountains of the nature reserve to the north. For something a touch more special, Senior Suites come with a separate living room.

Dining

Savour the typical flavours of Tierra del Fuego at La Cravia Restaurant with Argentine and international meals served a la carte or at a buffet. Barbecue – the nation’s favourite – features heavily while the succulent lamb and seafood are equally good. Expect spider crab and black hake served to views of the bay that they were caught in. For a lighter meal, the pool bar serves snacks along with fruit juices and drinks while the lobby bar serves drinks and Fuegian platters to the tinkling ivories of the resident pianist.

Facilities

There are few pools that enjoy a view as good as the ones at Arakur, looking out over the lakes to snow-dappled peaks beyond. Sustainable design recycles rainfall and glacier melts to be heated in water jets, hot tubs and children’s pools. Back indoors, there’s a state-of-the-art gym complete with a full range of exercise machines while the resort puts on a wide selection of activities to make the most of its picturesque setting. Paths run into the nature reserve and guided treks offer something for every fitness level with waterfall and meadow walks or wildlife spotting sessions.