The Lakes District, Chile
November 12-20, 2015
The Lakes District is a region of lush farmland, dense forest, snowcapped volcanoes and clear lakes.The forests were inhabited by the Mapuche (literally “people of the land”) who fought off the Inca and resisted Spanish attempts at colonization for 350 years before finally falling to the Chilean Army in the 1880s. Since then there have been German, Austrian and Swiss settlers who have transformed this region into some of the finest dairy farmland in Chile and its influence can be seen in the architecture and pastries! Today, most of the native Mapuche culture reside on reservations throughout the Lake District. The rest of the areas population live in the few major centres but the real action lies in the smaller villages such as Pucon and Puerto Varas where a myriad of outdoor activities are available such as hiking, volcano climbing, water sports and national parks. We spent some time in both of these areas but we had an unfortunate week of rainy weather so we spent most of our time chilling out and enjoying some day hikes.
Pucon - The Lake District
Our Accommodations in Pucon - Chile Kiwi Hostel
We found the most unique accommodations at a place called Chile Kiwi Hostel. This was a lovely hostel situated right on the lake front of Pucon and maintained extremely well with great facilities and very helpful staff. The cheapest option available for a "private double" was an old converted van parked on the grounds and rented out. Very funky! It was pretty awesome falling asleep with the stars peaking through the windshield and the cozy feeling of camping except it was more like "glamping"....sort of!
Pucon Village
Pucon is situated on Lago (Lake) Villarrica and home to the smoldering active volcano of the same name. Pucon was once a summer destination for the rich but is now a year round destination for adrenaline junkies and people wanting to explore the outdoors. Its definately a bit touristy but its laid back feel makes up for it.
Huerquehue National Park Trail - Pucon
Huerquehue National Park (pronounced "wer' kewe") is a beautiful gem near Pucon. We hiked a lovely trail passing three lakes located in the lush forest. It was a perfect day for lunch by the water and some good exercise!
Puerto Varas - The Lake District
Our Accommodations in Puerto Varas - Margouya Colonial Hostel
This is the kind of place you walk into with one nights reservation and end up staying the week!
Margouya Colonial Hostel is run by a friendly French family and is extremely cozy with fantastic facilities and excellent staff.
We had a rainy week while here and this was the perfect place to be. We met a lot of wonderful people and shared many great stories!
Town of Puerto Varas and German Village of Frutillar
We didn't do very much while we were in the Lakes District due to weather and most outdoor activities are dependent on decent weather. So we wandered the streets of Puerto Varas and visited the nearby German village of Frutillar for a day trip.