Location
The hotel sits proudly upon Cerro Alegre, with unobscured views of the Bay and overlooking the streets of downtown Valparaiso. Just a few metres down the hill is a small plaza and paseo Yugoslavo, home to the Fine Arts museum and a handful of local stores and restaurants. The Escalera Le Peral is barely a minutes’ walk away, providing a fun and easy way down to the streets below.
Layout
Comprising of just 23 rooms (don’t be confused to find yourself in room 24 – superstition rules that there is no room 13), the primary difference between each room category is the view on offer. The 9 standard rooms do have windows, but only of an internal wall and thus offer limited natural light. The 7 Premium rooms all have views up to the Valparaiso hills. The 5 Junior Suites are larger rooms and provide partial-hill and partial-sea views. Lastly, there are 2 Suite de Luxe. Both have full sea-view, which can be enjoyed either from a private terrace or a small balcony. The two suite de luxe also include free parking. The balcony Suite has a bathtub in addition to a shower. The terrace suite has the option of taking room service on the private terrace (not available in the balcony Suite).
Rooms
The hotel is accessed through a security gate at street level, whereupon a flight of steps will bring you into the spacious lobby. Also on the ground level is the Piano Bar, library and restaurant – including the majestic outdoor terrace. The rooms are split over the three floors above. The pool, jacuzzi and spa are all located downstairs from the lobby. A single elevator accesses all levels.
Activities
Palacio Astoreca has a number of standout amenities. The idea to heat their pool and jacuzzi via a log-fire, that is topped up every 2 hours, is inspired – adding a relaxing, smoky fragrance to the soothing warmth. There is also a spa offering a range of treatments. The elegant bar is home to a sleek grand piano; and every Friday & Saturday night a professional pianist plays from 19:30-21:30. What we really love is sitting out on the terrace with a drink whilst watching the world go by to the backdrop of Valparaiso Bay. It should be noted that the terrace is not open for dining during the winter months. There is also limited private parking available. Vinophiles will love the wine tasting available upon request in the hotel’s cellar. As do we!