Hotel AWA Launches Hands-On Cultural Workshops

In the communities of Ilque and Huelmo on the shores of Lago Llanquihue in Chile’s Lake Region, a centuries-old weaving tradition is still active and alive, and, now, Hotel AWA allows guests to learn more firsthand as the boutique hotel launches a monthly series of cultural workshops led by master artisans.

© Hotel AWA

Three rotating formats, each led by an artisan who has dedicated their life to keeping it alive, offer a unique chance to immerse in the region’s craft heritage.

Marisol Mancilla and Sandra Chávez, master artisans from the communities of Ilque and Huelmo, lead the Manila Basket Weaving Workshop. Working with natural manila fiber and traditional techniques passed down through generations, guests weave a small basket to take home. The two-hour workshop accommodates up to 10, with all tools and materials provided.

© Hotel AWA

The Traditional Loom Weaving Workshop draws on a textile heritage more than 150 years old and rooted in the Reloncaví area. Led by master artisans Leonila Chávez and Érica Hernández, participants learn about the construction of a small loom and the weaving of a traditional choapino, a characteristic local rug, using ancestral knot-weaving techniques. Each guest takes home the piece they create.

The Stone Carving Workshop, led by sculptor and artisan Marco Fuentes, introduces guests to stone carving rooted in the region’s pre-colonial visual culture. Using slate, chisel and hammer, participants carve a figure inspired by Chilean rock art. All tools and materials are provided, and every carved piece goes home with its maker.

Following each workshop, artisans display and sell their work at the hotel. Workshops are included for guests as part of Hotel AWA’s all-inclusive program and available to all other guests for an additional fee.

In collaboration with Café Folks, a Puerto Varas-based specialty coffee brand already served in guestrooms and at breakfast, Hotel AWA also now offers monthly workshops exploring filtered coffee and espresso preparation, with tastings of different varieties. Some sessions involve the bar team to develop coffee-based cocktails and mocktails.