Explora Patagonia
Explora’s commitment to conservation extends far beyond its property boundaries. In 2023, the company assumed management of Patagonia National Park and its facilities, including a 13-room lodge nestled within the park. This lodge offers breathtaking views of the Chacabuco Mountain Range, Mount Tamanguito, and Mount Tamango. One of the few luxury lodges in Patagonia, it embodies rustic elegance and aligns with conservation principles by using building materials such as stones from local quarries, recycled wood, and copper for the roofs.
Recognized as a conservation priority by the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) for its diverse ecosystems, the park benefits from the dedication of Explora’s owners, the Ibaňez family, who are devoted to supporting the mission. Under joint stewardship, Explora, CONAF and the Rewild Chile Foundation have initiated numerous successful conservation actions and initiatives, including efforts to protect native species such as guanacos, pumas, Andean condors, and the endangered huemul deer. Working together, the trio has also implemented a comprehensive reforestation program, restoring degraded grasslands and forests, and created wildlife corridors to facilitate the safe movement of animals. Hiking alongside one of Explora’s expert naturalists offers travelers the opportunity to witness firsthand the regeneration of grasslands and forests, and if you’re lucky, catch sight of one of the area’s protected species. In fact, the conservation work has been so successful that thousands of guanacos have returned to the valley and with the guanacos come the pumas, the region’s apex predator. Not to mention, for Explora guests, puma sightings are very likely!
Christos Drazos
Overlooking the picturesque town of Ammoudi, Canaves Oia Epitome architecture effortlessly combines natural materials, like volcanic rock, with modern, organic style, setting it apart from the traditional white-washed exteriors that dominate Santorini. The same creativity and consideration flows into its landscaping. The gardens at Canaves Oia Epitome showcase over 90 types of indigenous flora, wildflowers, and endemic species, including fragrant herbs like rosemary and oregano, century-old olive trees from the Peloponnese, and vibrant cactus flowers. Greek citrus trees add a fragrant touch with their lush foliage and fruits, while flowering plants like lavender, bougainvillea, and hibiscus lend vibrant hues. Ornamental grasses and succulents like aloe vera and agave bring texture and water efficiency, and Mediterranean shrubs such as myrtle, thyme, and sage offer resilience and aromatic charm. Despite the challenges of Santorini’s volcanic soil, Canaves Oia Epitome has created a lush microcosm using innovative planting techniques and desalinated sea water. This has allowed for the creation of a thriving oasis for birds and pollinators amidst the arid surroundings. Canaves Oia Epitome is the only property on the island that offers both sea and sunset views from the privacy of each suite and villa, though it’s the garden that provides the most stunning sunset experience, surrounded by the golden hour glow of flora and fauna and a chorus of birdsongs.
