Culinary conquests in Chile

While some lovers are destined to spend their vacations on white sandy beaches, food and wine lovers are called to look towards South America’s richest country, Chile, for romantic holiday satisfaction. For it is in Chile – a long, slender country of contrasts spanning three continents – that a passionate affair with new world wines and regional cuisine can be woven into one gastronomic getaway.

We begin ours in the nation’s eclectic capital, Santiago, after a 12-hour direct flight from Sydney. Having collected our rental car from the airport depot, we drive 30 minutes to Solace Hotel Santiago, located in Providencia. The well-positioned new hotel features contemporary rooms with king beds, chic amenities and a rather lovely rooftop bar – where we head immediately for a Chilean pisco sour.

We sip on our alcoholic introduction to Santiago before dipping into the narrow rooftop pool, taking rest at the edge