The Secret Ranchito

The ultimate hideaway cottage tucked away high up in the Andes - a haven for fly fishermen and escapists (sleeps 2-4)

If you read the Heidi books and dreamt of experiencing such a life yourself, then this small wooden cottage, set in a meadow high up in the Patagonian Andes, is the answer. Miles from anywhere, and accessible only by foot, water, horse or helicopter, the Secret Ranchito (or Condor Nest) fulfils every escapist’s dream. Your luggage and food supplies are brought in by oxcart, horses and saddles are provided for your entire stay and a 4-wheel drive waits for you on the other side of the swing foot bridge, 15 minutes away. A cook hikes in for each meal but if you prefer to have no interruptions, you can cook for yourself.

The simple life includes outdoor toilets, a shower (with hot water) built into a tree trunk, an organic garden, acres of trails, the most incredible views and not another soul in sight. And if you prefer a bit more activity, hiking, riding, biking, rafting and kayaking are all possible. Best of all, world class fly-fishing can be found on your doorstep - the crystalline waters of the nearby Futaleufu and Azul rivers are home to abundant populations of wild brown and rainbow trout.

Highs

• The absolute, uninterrupted peace and spectacular setting
• The feeling of being so removed from the rest of civilisation
• A mountain retreat in every sense, with just you and nature all around
• Showering in pure, heated spring water inside a tree, as a sweeping Andean valley stretches away below
• Fabulous horse-riding, led by Chilean cowboys

Lows

• Some might find the remoteness too much; this little retreat is all about being on your own in the middle of nowhere, so party animals beware
• If you can’t stand a large dose of your own (or your partner’s) company for too long, this probably isn’t the place for you
• The hefty price tag - though this does include transfers, all food, a cook, horses, a raft, a 4-wheel drive and an English-speaking guide