Quintay: About an hour and a half from Santiago, the small fisherman’s village of Quintay really is a hidden gem. Boasting a sandy beach overlooked by hillside houses, Quintay is a great place for foodies — particularly those who love fish and seafood dishes. There are a handful of restaurants which serve up the catch of the day. Many of the restaurants also have outdoor terraces, offering beautiful views over the bay.
La Parva: Just 60km east of Santiago, La Parva is the perfect place to don some skis or a snowboard. The resort has a dedicated area for beginners to brush up on their skills, while more confident skiers will enjoy the range of intermediate slopes. When you’ve had enough action on the pistes, enjoy a delicious meal from one of the many restaurants; and soak up the spectacular views of the Andes Mountains.
Valparaíso: The colourful port city of Valparaíso is around one hour and 20 minutes from Santiago. Home to brightly-coloured buildings, painted staircases and graffitied walls, Valparaíso has a shabby yet artistic feel. The city is known for its funicular lifts, which have been recognised by the World Monuments Fund as one of the world’s 100 most endangered historical treasures. The historic centre (characterised by a maze of cobbled streets and alleyways) is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
