The Chiloé archipelago is an intriguing melange of colourful coastal towns, uninhabited islands and folklore traditions, a place which feels charmingly cut off from mainland Chile. Here, you will find local fishing communities, woodwork shops and shipbuilders, nature walks and boat trips, a handful of colonial churches and plenty of fresh seafood!

Time in Chiloé is best spent getting into the laidback swing of island life, taking leisurely strolls along the coast while admiring the iconic stilted houses (palafitos) and workshops which characterise these port towns. With an interesting history involving 17th-century Jesuit missionaries, an indigenous population, Spanish colonial governance and more besides – there are myriad cultural influences which can be found from the quaint museums to the fish markets and traditional streets. Then, there is the Chiloé National Park and Penguin colony tours, boat trips, remote beaches and even forest walks to keep nature lovers entertained.

Perhaps even more than this, however, the islands and Chilote people are known for their mysterious mythology and legends which centre around great ancient battles, otherworldly creatures, magical powers, sea monsters and princes - to name a few! These ancient beliefs form an integral part of the cultural make-up here, and add an extra element of intrigue for anyone visiting the archipelago.