THE FACTS ABOUT POSADA DE MIKE RAPU

Chile

Few places are more mysterious - or remote - than Easter Island, cast out in the Pacific Ocean and studded with giant stone statues called moai. Reached by plane from Santiago, Chile (five hours), or Papeete, Tahiti (four hours), the island is for intrepid travellers only; but now that the Chile-based Explora group has opened a lodge, there is somewhere supremely comfortable to stay. For the third property in its portfolio (the others are in Patagonia and the Atacama Desert), architect José Cruz Ovalle has once again created a dramatic retreat, sitting low and sleek on the horizon and built (at least in part) of black lava. The interiors are refreshingly low-tech, with plenty of roughly hewn pine and unpolished slate. Days are action-packed: there are guided excursions to the moai, volcanic craters, a labyrinthine cave network and the highest point of the island, from where you can see the curvature of the earth. At the end of the day, there's an infinity-edged pool, Jacuzzis and a spa to enjoy. The kitchen plays it straight: healthy ingredients, locally sourced where possible, are prepared without fussy trimmings and served with excellent Chilean wines. WHEN TO GO The best time is from December to February, but Easter Island has a mild, sub-tropical climate all year. ROOM TO BOOK The four end suites have the best coastal views. Easter Island, Chile (00 562 206 6060; www.explora.com). Doubles from US$3,588 for three nights (minimum stay), full-board