Mirador de Guadal, Puerto Guadal, Carretera Austral

It's the cabins - Swiss-Alpine in style and decorated with photographs taken in the surrounding national parks - that get pride of place here, not the restaurant and reception, which comprise their own chalet further up the hill away from the lake shore.

The Dutch owner, Stefan, is extremely welcoming and will happily talk you through the numerous guided and unguided excursions on offer, including trips to the Marble Caves, walks on the glaciers of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, and treks to see the rock art of the Lago Jeinimeni National Reserve. We recommend at least two nights here to allow time to explore.

We like: The stunning lakeside location and charming Swiss-Alpine style cabins

Best for: Exploring the southern part of the Carretera Austral