My wife and I visited during a recent trip and have never enjoyed a destination more. Everything was to our liking. Isolated, scenic, active, and informative, Helsingfors provided daily hiking, wonderful trail riding, (we are horse people), and delightful company, both in staff and fellow guests. We loved it. Not "fancy" in a elegant sense, but delightful in being genuine and embracing, Helsingfors is a "must return someday" kind of experience.
"Secret hideaway" is an excellent description of this charming and beautiful location PAST the end of the road. Helsingfors staff (primarily our Argentinian/Floridian Nick and the jefe Pablo) are as attentive and charming as you could hope for, the grounds are spectacular and the views are awe-inspiring.
We were led on a day hike to "Windy Point" (no misnomer... 60+ MPH!) and took a combination horse ride & hike to Lago Azul through some of teh prettiest real estate in Patagonia... all the while looking at a Fitzroy in the distance and the numerous glaciers and waterfalls. Where else can you see caracara birds wandering about the lawn looking for handouts?
The food was spectacular and the accommodations bright and airy. Helsingfors is another Estancia that is beyond the "end of the road", but the journey is rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime visit.
What a secret little hideaway located in the Los Glaciares National Park! Top notch service and good will make you feel pampered and spoiled as you should be! Wildlife abounds you out your window and as you walk the grounds with the Lake Viedma, Fitzroy and Andes Mts as your backdrop. Hiking in the area is incredible but be ready when you head out to Windy Pt as it deserves its name! Horses are available for rent if you want to shorten your hike to the Blue Lagoon Glacier area. The entire time we were there we never encountered another hiker besides our group!
The food is incredible with everything being made on site that possibly can be from all the breads & pastries, yogurts, etc to soups and entrees that are exquisite. Rooms have everything you need but not necessarily spacious depending which room you get. Wifi is iffy but you don't go to Patagonia for the wifi!!
If you want beautiful views, superior food, super staff, great attention to detail - then this is your place. The main host, Nick, was as good as it gets, always there to attend to your every need without being pushy. If you asked for anything then he made it happen. Natalia, the guide, was very personable and fun to be around. The chef was just outstanding - varied meals all with super taste and way too much food. Fresh baked bread every morning along with more than you could ask for on display.
The Gaucho, Evarista (sp?) was great with setting up the horseback riding trips and very willing to do just want you wanted on each trek. You could gallop if you wanted to or get off your horse to take pictures and just go at whatever pace you wanted - a fun guy to be around. Most everyone spoke English and the staff that didn't wasn't much of a problem since it wasn't that hard to communicate. There was only one drawback, however that is also a plus - the ride in from Rt. 40 was 44 miles on a dirt road. The good part was that you won't see anyone around and that was just the way I liked it - no tourism trap here. I highly recommend this Estancia.
A pleasant stopover to shake the dust off, relax, and refresh on our driving trip down the Andes. Cozy accommodations and common areas, excellent meals, top notch hospitality. Highly recommended, particularly for couples.
