Castillo Rojo

Boutique Hotel in Downtown Santiago, Chile

After visiting over 25 countries and countless hotel rooms I can say this is one of the best boutique hotels that I have ever stayed at. Everything was perfect for my stay from check-in to the recommendations the staff gave on where to eat.

Castillo Rojo Boutique Hotel

The Castillo Rojo is a boutique hotel located near all the sites including Pablo Nerudo House and Bellavista Patio within proximity of restaurants and bars. It is the family home of Valquez Flores Marconi, the youngest reigning president of the republic of Chile. Built in 1848 is has been restored and refurbished and open to the public since 2008. The grounds are incredibly beautiful, complete with a swimming pool and a piano bar. The house itself is historic and beautifully renovated.

Its also the place I had my first Pisco Sour! One-part pisco, one part sugar, one part lemon and one teaspoon egg whites. All shaken till frothy. The bar is located right next to the funicular to Cerro San Cristobal which is also worth a visit up to the top and explore. There was a short line to ride the funicular, but it was well worth the wait to go to see the view.

I knew when I pulled up to the front of the Castillo Rojo Boutique Hotel that I would enjoy my stay here. The rooms and ambiance are just stunning.

Exploring Downtown Santiago

The staff at the hotel were so helpful and helped me plan my day of exploring. Santiago is one of those countries best explored on foot. From the hotel I went to the seafood market to identify some of the local seafood. (View authentic Chilean recipes below.)

My Chilean Experience

When I was planning my trip around South America I didn’t plan to have a specific place to be. I just booked my flights by what I wanted to do and flights that were cheap. Visiting Chile was a highlight adventure and staying at the Castillo Rojo in Santiago was the best of places I’ve stumpled across on my way. It wasn’t hard to decide where to stay in Santiago. I kept seeing the Castillo Rojo, as one of the best boutique hotels in the city. I am so happy to have stayed at this luxury hotel. I flew from Buenos Aires to Santiago and Wow the view over the Andes was amazing. It was a quick two-hour flight so when I arrived in Santiago, I called an Uber ride to the Castillo Rojo Boutique Hotel.

From there it was a short walk to Plaza de Armes which is the main square in Santiago. It is a beautiful square with historic buildings surrounding it and the cathedral a few blocks away. That’s the great things about the location of my hotel – everything is within walking distance or a short Uber ride away.

One of the best suggestions I got from the staff at the Castillo Rojo was to visit Emporio de Rosa for gelato. Oh, my this place is amazing. I was told to try the Lucuma flavour which is a fruit that does not have an English name. It was delicious and has an indescribable semi-sweet flavour which is well worth a sample try.

I also sampled the Chilean dulce de leche which is different than the Argentinian variety. The Chilean variety is more cinnamon flavoured and not as sweet. I went for a full dish of dark chocolate which was so rich and creamy it ironically warmed my heart.

My time in Santiago was short and sweet to explore the city. There are many things to do here, but as I was still jet-lagged, and knew I would be back after Valparaiso. I took my time and meandered around, checking out the many spice shops and restaurants.

I spent five days in Santiago, visiting museums and art galleries and always enjoyed returning to the Castillo Rojo Hotel. I could walk to the theatre where a Spanish Opera group was performing. The location in Santiago was perfect. It was nice and quiet with amazing service. I would stay there again for sure.

T hese memories of Santiago are shared with you through these authentic meals of my trip. I am often carried back to that lovely colonial city and the wonderful people at the Castillo Rojo Boutique Hotel by the fragrances and tastes of a warm Chilean meal for family or friends. I offer these meals and restaurant localation for your dining pleasure and to share a taste of Santiago.

Traditional Cuisine near the Castillo Rojo Hotel

ULTIMATE CHILI

(Vegan Style)

A favorite of the hotel and available just around the corner. This vegan chili hits the spot with its fresh ingredients and robust flavour! Try this place for breakfast too!

Los Localitos

5664 12 Avienda, Norte, Guarante Centro, Santiago, Chile 01-566-225-5792

Open 6 am to 9 pm