Holiday accommodation in Malalcahuello

Although Malalcahuello is a rural town of less than 1000 habitants, there are a multitude of holiday accommodation options. It is possible to find 5 star hotels as well as camping with basic facilities. This diversity means that there is something to suit everyone. The price usually reflects the quality but note that in winter prices are generally high, even in the lower quality establishments.

Problems can ocurr in winter school holidays when the prices rise along with the higher operating costs and high demand. Unless you have previously booked you may find yourself without a bed for the night. Prior to booking in winter it is important to ask about the insulation, heating and whether there is an alternative power source during black-outs.

The construction standards in Chile, are only recently arriving at the standard needed for mountain living. Staying in an economical establishment during winter may transform a pleasant holiday into a nightmare when the water freezes and there is no back-up power generation during a 48 hour black-out.

Cabins

There are many cabins in and around Malalcahuello.

In the township there are holiday houses amongst the permanent residents. Pichipehuén is an example of a residential house transformed into a comfortable holiday cabin, maintaining the feeling of being at home. Pichipehuén holiday chalet it´s central location is ideal, being close to public transport, shops, restaurants and just 1km from the Thermal baths and 10km from Corralco ski centre on Volcano Lonquimay. Pichipehuén is in the mid range of prices USD $105 in summer to USD $173/night for 5 people in winter. Outside of Malalcahuello centre, there are other options. For these options it´s a good idea to ask about the access if reserving in winter as sometimes access is blocked by snow. One accessible option is Chile Wild – Las Vertientes Cabins Chile Wild that offers comfortable, quality cabins well insulated and heated. Chains in winter, however, may be required to access the cabins, particularly for 2WD vehicles. Other more economical options along the highway include cabins Wenu Mapu, Ruca Pehuén, Malalmontaña & Nativa Pizza. Closer to Malalcahuello-Nalcas Reserve and Corralco ski centre, there are cabins but some suffer from lack of internet access and do not have connectivity to the electricity grid, operating from generators & solar panels.

Hostels

Called hostales in Chile or backpackers, are typically shared rooms for solo travellers with some double rooms with private bathroom but generally economical with shared cooking and eating facilities. Hostal 181 is one fo these that is located on the the internacional highway (ruta 181). There are a few others in and outside of the township and some that operate without license.

Hotels

Hotel Nalcas is the most economical of the three hotels in Malalcahuello. Located on the main highway,on various hectares of land it boasts a swiiming pool, jacuzi and restaurante. There are 7 rooms with prices starting from CLP $56.900 (2018) for 2 people with breakfast included and rising to CLP$110.000 for 2 in peak season.

• Hotel Las Termas de Malalcahuello is a 27 bed Hotel located on some hectares of manicured gardens with prices ranging from CLP $189.800 to $282.800 for 2 people with the Chilean tax included (2018 prices). These prices include breakfast and access to the thermal pool which is a large indoor pool overlooking the valley.
• Hotel Corralco was built in 2012 & is the newest of the three hotels in Malalcahuello; it is also the highest quality boasting 5 stars. Located within Malalcahuello-Nalcas Reserve at the foot of Volcano Lonquimay, it is well placed for exploration of the Reserve and for skiing at Corralco ski centre. There are different price packages that vary a lot according to the season

Lodges

Lodges in Malalcahuello are typically small establishments offering habitations with private bathroom but shared dining area with some or all meals provided.

Suizandina, Posado del Rio & Namku Lodge are three lodges in the area; Suizandina is the oldest and most economical, operated by a Swiss/Chilean couple. One of the owners is fanatical about horses and offers tours, not only for their guests but other visitors to the area. Posada del Rio specialize in mountain bike group tours. Namku Lodge recently changed hands(2018), it is a lodge for up to 14 people.