Towering snow capped volcanoes, the majestic Andean mountains split by stunning fjords, ancient forests and home to an abundance of wildlife, this is Patagonia baby! It’s every bit as beautiful and wild as you can imagine.
In this article we’ll be exploring the Chilean Lake District in Patagonia, there’s tons of lakes in this region, hence the name but we’ll be looking at one in particular, Lago Llanquihue.
This lake is the second largest in Chile and the third largest in the whole of South America, surrounded by 6 volcanoes it’s certainly one of the most beautiful lakes we’ve ever seen. Fed by glaciers and mountain streams, the lake is a beautiful clear blue colour.
Around the lake you’ll find charming little towns, check out this guide to get the low down of what to do and see.
Puerto Varas
This is a truly picturesque city nestled on the shores of Lake Llanquihue and by the foot of Orsorno Volcano, it’s a sight for sore eyes! The volcano towers over the village and on a clear day it’s a majestic sight to be seen.
The City is famous for its abundance of rose bushes that grow all over the city and is often referred to as “The City of Roses” everyone loves a Rose!
Puerto Varas and the surrounding towns of Lake Llanquihue were founded by German immigrants in the 18th century.
The architecture of the houses and churches makes it feel like you’re walking the streets of a German town, be sure to check out some of the delicious foods that are influenced by German cuisine such as Kuchen, a delicious cake and of course an abundance of bread and sausages.
Here’s our top pick of things to do in Puerto Varas;
Take a Stroll Around the Historical Town
Walk around the town admiring the German architecture such as the church, or many of the german settlers mansions.
Take a nice stroll along the lakefront, start from Licarayén sculpture and walk to the Harbour Master’s office, a nice 30 minute walk to soak up all the lake views.
Fancy something sweet, try some of the delicious treats from local bakeries or grab an ice cream and look out over the lake at the stunning view.
The town has a romantic feel about it. Let your legs lead the way and allow yourself to get lost in its historical charm.
Museo Pablo Fierro
This is one of the best museums we’ve ever visited, the owner Pablo bought this house and turned it into a emporium of his imagination.
It’s basically like walking back in time , everything is from Pablo’s family, passed down generations or salvaged from the bins, treasures such as old photos and trinkets, typewriters, retro prams, it’s a blast from the past and you really get a sense of connection to what life used to be like.
It’s a big play house for adults, with a boat built into the house and an old bus you can remember what it was like being care free and let your own imagination run wild.
Paddle on the Lake
You can do many activities on the lake such as sailing, boat tours, paddle boarding and kayaking, it’s a great opportunity to get different views of the volcanoes. So grab a paddle and if it’s during the summer time jump in and have a dip in the crystal clear water.
Frutillar
Frutillar is found on the eastern shore of the lake, it’s a charming small village, it has that slow pace vibe. Frutillar is actually known as the “City of Music”, and it’s part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, you can find the piano sculpture along the shore of the lake.
Frutillar stole our hearts, we ended up staying here for 10 days and we could have easily stayed longer.
Be sure to check out these things to do when visiting Frutillar;
German Museum
This museum is a chance to understand the history of the town and how it was founded by German settlers.
There’s different houses and buildings to explore, including the country house which has all the old furniture and belongings of the family that lived there, it’s like walking back in time.
The ticket costs $3000 CLP, so a cheap, fun and informative activity!
Teatro del Lago
The Teatro del Lago in Frutiller is a real treat to see, it’s architecture is visually stunning. They offer shows and exhibits, check out the website to find out what’s on.
There’s a fantastic restaurant overlooking the lake with a real ambient vibe, and round the front of the theatre you’ll find some boutique shops including a bakery which sells delicious breads and treats.
Boat Tour
The boat tour is a fantastic chance to get on the lake and take in all the views from different perspectives.
You’ll get to see the theatre from behind which looks really spectacular, the boat takes you further up the lake to get a fantastic view of the 6 volcanoes, there’s many different tour times but if you catch the last one for sunset, it’s a spectacular sight seeing the volcanoes light up in a pink glow.
The cost of the boat won’t break the bank at $7000CLP and there’s a toilet and cafeteria on board. We would recommend grabbing a hot drink from the Positive Coffee shop just opposite where you’ll board the boat.
They do delicious hot chocolates and the coffee smelt tempting to even us non coffee drinkers, they also sell amazing chocolate treats such as vegan peanut butter bars that taste like snickers, my mouths watering just thinking about them.
Ensenada
A more quieter town on the Eastern side of the lake, Ensenada offers a view of the Osorno, Calbuco and Puntiagudo volcanoes and access to the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.
Ensenada has restaurants and a sandy beach to enjoy the lake. Let’s take a look at the things to do;
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park
Only a 10 minute drive from Ensenada, Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is a place full of natural beauty.
If you’re up for a 5-6 hour hike, you can summit Orsorno Volcano from here , perhaps you’d rather grab your skis or snowboard, what a slope this powerful volcano makes!
In the park you’ll find the beautiful Petrohué Waterfalls, these cascading waterfalls are a sight to see especially with Osorno volcano as a backdrop.
The park is also home to Lake Todos los Santos, a gorgeous turquoise lake known as Emerald Lake, caused by the glacial meltwater that feeds it, a true marvel to be seen.
You get a spectacular view of the surrounding volcanoes from here, why not rent a kayak or paddle board and have some fun on the lake!
Puerto Octay
The northern village of Lake Llanquihue, Puerto Octay is a historical charming town, like the other towns around the lake it was founded by German immigrants, it’s architecture is really unique and gives the town a real magical feel.
Looking out at the lake, you’ll admire the snow capped peaks and the beautiful landscape.
It’s one of those places that soothes your soul. The small town vibes are real here and it’s great to slow down and just take in the beauty around. Here’s some things to do during your visit;
Mirador De Puerto Octay
This viewpoint is a great spot to take in the surroundings, all around you is natural beauty, the lake, the trees, the cute town, does it get much better!
Admire the Historical Architecture
Walk around the town and check out the historical buildings, the German style architecture is really quite something, some of the buildings date back to the 18th century, such as the Parroquia San Agustín church, truly beautiful.
Enjoy Activities on the Lake
Relax on the beach and catch some rays or take a stroll along the lake. If you’re up for some water fun you can rent the usual kayaks or paddle boards and have yourself some adventures on the lake, it never gets old.
Puerto Montt
Although Puerto Montt isn’t on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, it’s a gateway town to the lakes and fjords of Patagonia. Feel the fresh Pacific sea breeze whilst you gaze out at the vast ocean, you might even spot a whale if it’s the right time of year, this area has an abundance of marine life.
Puerto Montt isn’t the most attractive town, but it’s a great base to explore Lake Llanquihue and the surrounding villages. Here’s the top things to do during your stay;
Alerce Andino National Park
Alerce Andino National Park is situated in the Andes mountains and covers approximately 264,000 acres, it’s a massive national park and is home to the some of the oldest tree’s in the world.
The ancient Alerce trees are over 3,000 years old, I can’t even imagine what these wise trees have witnessed. Just standing in their presence, you can feel their power and energy, go on then, give one a hug!
Osorno Volcano
This stunning volcano can be reached in an hour from Puerto Montt, Volcan Osorno is one of Chiles most iconic volcanoes, its snowcapped peak is actually a glacier.
If you’re partial to a bit of skiing or snowboarding, then this is the place to be, it doesn’t get much better than shredding some fresh pow pow on a volcano in Patagonia!
At the Orsorno Ski Centre you can rent equipment and even book lessons if you’re a beginner, grab yourself a hot drink or some food and enjoy the views.
Cruise to Patagonia Fjords
If you fancy going deeper into Patagonia and witnessing the stunning fjords then hopping on a cruise from Puerto Montt could be the ideal way to do it!
Most cruises will take you to the Southern Patagonia ice fields, giving you a chance to witness the immense San Rafael glacier, it’s spectacular to say the least, the sea of ice will leave you speechless.
