Maia Chacra at Viña Vik: Chile’s Valley of Art, Wine and Wonder
Step into a dreamscape where world-class design, wine, and nature converge — and where Argentine journalist and TV host Maia Chacra brings her signature elegance and curiosity to every corner. In her latest journey, Maia explores Viña Vik, the renowned luxury retreat nestled in Chile’s Millahue Valley. Known for her travel series La Ruta de Maia and her refined taste for high-end experiences, Maia takes her followers along as she immerses herself in the art, architecture, and soul of one of South America’s most visionary wine destinations. From artist-designed glass bungalows to immersive tastings of award-winning vintages, her visit to Viña Vik is more than a stay — it’s a sensorial escape that captures the spirit of luxury redefined.
Overview:
On a recent trip to Chile, I spent two unforgettable nights at Viña Vik, a luxury retreat tucked in the heart of the Millahue Valley. Just 90 minutes from Santiago, this otherworldly destination blends architecture, art, wine, and nature into a seamless, high-design experience curated by visionaries Alexander and Carrie Vik.
The Arrival:
After landing in Santiago, a private transfer from the hotel brought me through winding roads to what felt like a living sculpture. The titanium-roofed building rose from the vineyard like a futuristic mirage. From the moment I arrived, I felt the calm and refinement of a place where everything is intentional.
Hotel Design & My Bungalow Experience:
The property features 22 artist-designed suites and 7 Puro Vik glass bungalows. Each space is its own curated art piece. I stayed in “Shape of Women”, a 75 m² glass-and-concrete bungalow created by Luciano Castelli and Richard Brown Lethem. Every detail—from the hot tub overlooking the valley to the curated living area with desk—felt like living inside a contemporary art installation.
Culinary Highlights:
During my stay, I enjoyed three unique dining experiences, all under the guidance of renowned chef Pablo Cáceres, who oversees the property’s gastronomic identity:
- A multi-course lunch at Pavilión, where every plate was thoughtful, seasonal, and beautiful.
Everything I tasted was organic, local, and infused with purpose paired with VIK’s celebrated wines. - An organic breakfast at Vik Zero, set right by the hotel’s garden.
- A fine-dining dinner at Milla Milla the fantastic main restaurant inside the hotel
A Winery Like No Other
Viña Vik’s futuristic winery, designed to harmonize with the landscape, is a feat of architecture and enological innovation. Under the direction of acclaimed winemaker Pablo Vallejos, the estate’s wines have earned international acclaim — including the title of #2 Best Vineyard in the World (World’s Best Vineyards 2024). During my visit, I sampled several labels, but La Piu Belle — bold, expressive, and unforgettable — quickly became my personal favorite.
Moments to Remember at the Vineyard:
- A guided horseback ride across Viña Vik’s 4,300 hectares.
- Visiting the futuristic winery, learning about the VIK 2021 (100 pts by James Suckling) and Stone VIK, and ending with a tasting.
- Exploring the on-site art collection and artist-designed suites.
- Enjoying a vinotherapy spa treatment, including a wine-filled bath with antioxidant benefits.
- Wandering through Vik Zero’s gardens and seeing where the flavors on my plate were grown.
Every moment felt deliberate and exquisite — curated, effortless, and deeply luxurious.
Verdict:
In just 48 hours, Viña Vik offered me a sensorial reset — through landscape, taste, design and stillness. It’s a place that lingers with you long after checkout. With sister properties in Uruguay, Milan, and soon Rio de Janeiro, Viña Vik is just the beginning of a global lifestyle where art meets indulgence — and I can’t wait to experience the rest of the Vik world.
This article was written by Maia Chacra, an Argentine journalist and TV host specializing in travel, gastronomy, and lifestyle. She is the creator of La Ruta de Maia, where she highlights luxury destinations, Michelin-starred restaurants, and curated global experiences. With a strong social media presence (@maiachacra), she shares inspiring content centered on culture, food, and travel. Known for her elegance and passion, she has built a respected career that blends storytelling, exploration, and personal insight.
