2016 Bucket List: Chile

More than 2,600 miles long, Chile spans much of South America's western coast and offers wildly different experiences for the adventure traveler. Oenophiles flock to the Central Valley, located between the Andes and the Coastal Mountain Range. Some of the most highly rated New World wines are produced in this region from varieties including cabernet sauvignon, syrah and pinot noir.

Day trips from Santiago offer an opportunity to go vineyard hopping, but for an over-the-top luxury wine retreat, look no further than Internet billionaire Alexander Vik's Vi�a Vik, a 22-room luxury property located in the Millahue Valley featuring a holistic wine spa, vineyard tours and five-star amenities.

For thrill-seekers looking to experience Chile's dynamic landscape, head south to the country's Patagonian region, where 50 percent of the land is protected wildlife. Given the vast scope and climate changes, outdoor adventurers will find everything from diving among shipwrecks to skiing with majestic views of the Strait of Magellan.

Plan several days in Puc�n and its outlying regions to experience the longest canopying circuit in South America as well as the city's two rivers (Trancura and Liucura), which offer rafting expeditions for beginners as well as those ready to take on Class V rapids.

Three Rooms With a View

Settle into one of these memorable properties, each offering luxurious respite from the day's adventure at Torres del Paine National Park.

The Singular Patagonia - Located a short, scenic ride from the park, Singular was originally a cold storage plant and has been converted into a pioneer-inspired, five-star resort.

Awasi Patagonia - In addition to the lodge, Awasi recently opened 12 unique villas inspired by ranching outposts and featuring ultimate privacy, including outdoor hot tubs and stellar views, which may include Lake Sarmiento or Torres del Paine.

Las Torres - All-inclusive never looked so good, offering packages that include accommodations, park entrance, transfers, guided excursions and meals prepared with vegetables grown from the hotel's organic garden.

All in the Family

This fall Chile passed the Law for All Families, which allows both same-sex and opposite-sex cohabiting couples to register and gain access to healthcare, pension and property inheritance rights. Government spokesperson Marcel Diaz told La Naci�n (the local newspaper), "We are making Chile a more inclusive country, a country that recognizes the diversity of our people."

Santiago's Bellavista neighborhood is the best barrio to meet LGBT locals among the overflowing restaurants, bars and nightclubs. And if there's one place to pull an all-nighter, it's Club Principe, which is regularly packed with hunky South Americans and their admirers.

For more information, visit www.chile.travel.