Places of interest in the Futaleufu area
Puerto Varas - Situated on the south shore of Lago Llanquihue, Puerto Varas has become a regular stopover for travelers. Beautifully maintained 19th century German mansions, exquisite cuisine, and stunning natural scenery make the town a great place for relaxing, for strolling picturesque beaches, and for dining at some of the finest restaurants in Chile. Adventure abounds, as well: the snow clad slopes of Volcan Osorno and the wilds of Cochamo lure climbers, backpackers, and trekkers, while rafters enjoy warming up for Futaleufu expeditions by spending an afternoon on the Rio Petrohue.
Chiloe - Rich in history, in mythology, and in culture, the small island of Chiloe remains one of the paramount, yet least recognized, attractions in Chile. Colorful stilted homes, quaint fishing villages, and stunning scenery and outdoor opportunities make the island an ideal location to experience authentic Chilean culture. Ancud, a town on the north shore, hosts a celebrated weekly market where some of the finest woolens on the planet are bought and sold at bargain prices. Castro, located in the center of the island, is a picturesque town notable for stilted homes perched over the gulf, century-old wooden churches, and magnificent views of Pumalin National Park‘s snow clad volcanoes. Chiloe National Park, on the west shore, features pristine Pacific coastline and myriad trails through native evergreen forests.
Pucon - The bustling tourist town of Pucon is one of the liveliest places in Chile. Positioned between the white peak of Volcan Villarica and the black sand beaches of Lago Villicara, this small tourist town boasts a plethora of activities: hiking, rafting, canyoneering, hot springs, and a great variety of restaurants and night clubs. Well-to-do Santiguinos maintain a steady flow of activity, while international tourists add an eclectic dimension to the scene during the summer months.
San Carlos de Bariloche (Argentina) - Bariloche is to Argentina what Pucon is to Chile. An animated town on the shore of Lago Nahuel Huapi, this mountain town boasts an abundance of activities: camping and canyoneering, diving and dining, hot spring pools and partying. 19th century Swiss-German architecture add a charming element to the downtown district; and Nahuel Huapi National park, within which the town sits, offers virtually unlimited outdoor opportunities.
