Lake Llanquihue, By Teresa Colmer

 Lake Llanquihue is one of the largest lakes in South America (the second largest in 

Chile) and also one of the most beautiful, due to the kaleidoscope of colours you 

can find around it: the shimmering blue water; the unfolding green landscape; the 

blossoming flowers; and undoubtedly the blinding white of soaring snow-capped 

volcanoes. 

It is possible to wander around the lake in one day. Besides lofty landscapes, 

the trip boasts fascinating attractions: wooden German churches and watermills, 

built in the 19th century with the arrival of German emigrants; a very interesting 

ethnographic museum, located in a cozy little town called Frutillar; and the “must” 

in this tour, the Petrohué Falls. The falls came about as the result of the eruption 

of Osorno Volcano: as the molten lava hit the river, it changed its course, creating 

a split-level landscape over which the turquoise water flows. There are trails to 

visit the river downstream and the woods beside it. 

Very close to the falls, you will encounter Lake Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Lake), 

where it is almost possible to “touch” the Osorno Volcano, its perfectly symmetrical 

cone covered in snow. The lake reflects the green foothills of the magnificent 

volcano. On the horizon, other snow-capped volcanoes valiantly reach skyward. 

Both lakes are excellent for recreation: fishing, kayaking, swimming, windsurfing 

and sailing are some of the more common activities. Todos Santos Lake is on 

the Chilean side of the legendary Chile-Argentina lake crossing. If you decide 

to do the crossing—and it’s breath-taking—you’ll either begin or end your trip 

there. Active visitors may want to climb Osorno Volcano, or visit one of the many 

National Parks in the region. 

For those who do not like to fish or sail, there are many more laid-back activities in 

which to participate, especially in the summer time. Check out the weeklong run of 

classical concerts at the end of January or the handicraft exhibition in Frutillar. 

There are all kinds of hotels, hostels and cabins along the shores of the lake and in 

the towns. There are also many restaurants to enjoy lake fish, lamb and traditional 

pastries based on German recipes (küchens), as well as traditional Chilean fare. 

In short, the Lake Llanquihue region has something for everyone, from nature 

lovers to adventure travellers, shoppers and fans of fine dining. Bring a camera 

and your sense of adventure, and don’t forget to send postcards home to make 

your friends jealous!