Nestled at the edge of the starkly beautiful Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, the world’s largest salt flat, stands the Palacio de Sal - a hotel that is a marvel of unique architectural and ecological design. This one-of-a-kind hotel is constructed almost entirely out of salt blocks harvested from its surroundings. From the floors to the walls, and even the furniture including beds, tables, and chairs, each component is crafted from salt, creating a seamless blend with the natural landscape.
The hotel's design not only showcases innovative use of local materials but also offers a surreal experience to its guests. Even the ceiling and intricate sculptures that adorn the interior spaces are made of salt, ensuring that visitors are completely immersed in the theme. The concept of the hotel originated from the desire to offer visitors a deep connection with the salt flats while emphasizing sustainability and environmental consciousness - principles that are essential given the hotel’s delicate ecosystem.
Despite its beauty and allure, the Palacio de Sal has rules that maintain its pristine condition and ensure the longevity of its unique design elements. Among these rules, the most unusual yet necessary is the prohibition against licking the walls. This guideline helps preserve the salt blocks from damage and degradation, maintaining the structural integrity of the hotel. It also underscores the importance of respecting and conserving the natural resources that make such a construction possible.
Visiting the Palacio de Sal provides a rare opportunity to experience architecture that is in perfect harmony with its environment. The hotel offers all the modern comforts within its salty confines, including a spa, a golf course, and a restaurant where diners can savor local Andean flavors with a view of the vast salt expanse. The extraordinary setting of the Salar de Uyuni, known for its otherworldly landscapes and spectacular, reflective properties during the rainy season, enhances the stay at the Palacio de Sal, making it a bucket-list destination for travelers seeking both adventure and a touch of the surreal.
