A Vision For The Future

When you look on YouTube you can find several videos that show Reserva Huilo-Huilo at different times of the year. One of these videos can be found here. The idea of preserving the natural environment for the enjoyment of visitors, rather than harvesting the timber and hunting the wildlife, is a relatively new concept for Chilean landowners and entrepreneurs.

Since the construction of the successful Baobob Hotel, new initiatives are being implemented to encourage year-round use of the facilities, including improvements to the highway from outside the reserve. In winter, the improved access means a ski area can be developed on the volcanos Mocho and Choshuenco. South America's longest canopy zip line has been built here. A large horse barn and riding trails are being constructed. A micro-brewery that uses the fresh spring waters of the region is being built. There will be a museum to display the artifacts of the logging era and the art of the local people. And new lodging is in the planning stages.

At night, the lights of the hotel make an inviting glow under the dark forest canopy.

One night during our visit, classical musicians played at the hotel. Before the performance began, Henry had a chance to play his cello accompanied by a professor of music from the Universidad Austral de Chile in Valdivia. And then before dinner all the hotel guests were able to enjoy a professional violinist performing with her.

The hotels and their decorations were all constructed by the timberworkers and other craftsmen of the community. As the timber industry winds down in the area, a new sustainable economy built on tourism is being created.

The restaurant at the hotel is managed by an American with a knowledge of the proper preparation and presentation of fine food and wine.

The service staff posed for this photo with Richard, Milton and Cristian at dinner one evening.

This is one of the appetizing appetizers served to us.

We even had a chance to meet Victor Petermann, the owner of the Huilo-Huilo reserve. Sr. Petermann was keeping a close eye on the operation of the hotel and he stopped at our table to see how we were enjoying our stay.

Outside the new micro-brewery stands a statue of Sr. Petermann wearing his signature coat and hat.

Two of the beers brewed here.

In the lobby of the Baobob is an artist's rendition of the park during the winter showing the snow activities available and the conception of a new lodge. (Click on the picture for a closer look).

If you look closely, you can find a likeness Victor Petermann himself hoisting a mug of his beer next to the outdoor asado. Salud!