A spectrum assortment of palafitos (wooden houses on stilts) made the Chilean city of Castro, the capital city of Chiloé Island, a colourful day (despite the grey sky looming above).
So much of the city sits precariously on stilts adding to its’ history of destruction, with three fires and three earthquakes laying waste to the city over four centuries. The most recent disaster was in 1960, when a tidal wave caused by an earthquake on the mainland engulfed the city.

Disasters aside, Castro is Chilé’s third-oldest city and the city has a history of being home to thousands of farmers and a target for European pirates. The capital of the archipelago manages to maintain its local Chilote character side by side with a hint of modern development, alluring tourism and a hint of ‘cool’.

Our colossal Holland America pulled in and we were set free to hit the town. Just like the colourful Chilean city of Valparaiso, Castro is another colourful destination designed to roam.

We spent a relaxing day admiring the rainbow homes and appreciating the haven of rural tranquillity. My advice for anyone visiting the city is simply walking down the streets and around the central plaza, soaking up all of Castro’s curious energy. Don’t expect an abundance of tourist attractions – but expect a picturesque day full of pleasant surprises.