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Tilcara, Cerro Chico: stunning views
Cerro Chico (“Boy Hill”) is a bungalow style hotel located outside the town of Tilcara. Although it is ‘just’ 2 km’s from the town center it took quite a time driving this ‘worst’ Argentinean road we ever have seen. But with some patience (and you are on holiday) it is doable. Especially at night when it is absolutely dark outside without any street lighting, it can be quite a challenge.
Our reward was a paradise-like place with really stunning views over the valley of the Rio Grande and the high mountains of the Andes; second morning even with snow capped. Don’t forget you are already on an altitude of about 2.500 meters !! We had ‘bungalow’ number 1, which is the closest to the main building with the reception desk, lounge, restaurant and car park. On the premises is also a swimming pool (which we didn’t use) and two llama’s are walking around.
The room itself is quite basic, but has some nice local decorations, a bathroom ensuite and folding doors to a small terrace with two deck chairs. Just after our arrival we had a custom made lunch on our terrace in the lovely sunshine with these great views of the mountains.
Breakfast was very good and served buffet style with bread, croissants, jams, tea, fresh orange juice and yoghurt. The first evening, being not keen to drive to Tilcara, we had diner at Cerro Chico, which is offered to the guests. There was not much choice and it was by far not the best meal we had in northwest Argentina (second night we went to town).
(Just this meal is the reason I don’t rate Cerro Chico not with “A Great Experience”.)
Staff is very friendly and helpful. The French owner “Nour” - the hotel is also known as “lode Francés” (home of the Frenchman) - who is living many years in the province, does know a lot about the region and had some tips (for instance about the pucará of Juella) for sights to visit. He also helped us checking flights and printing boarding passes for our flight back home.
Affordable luxury.
Great views and quietness.
Very friendly and helpful staff.
