The region stands out for its unique geography, lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, and the legacy of German colonization. One of its main attractions is Lake Llanquihue, the second-largest lake in Chile. Around it, you'll find towns, cities, parks, and nature reserves.

If you're looking for things to do during your winter vacation, a weekend getaway, or a trip with your partner or family, here are the best experiences to discover this incredible region. Let’s get to the list!

1. Frutillar

If you’ve never heard of Frutillar, this is your chance to discover everything about this small lakeside town. Over time, it has become one of the most picturesque destinations in the region, known for its German-inspired architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

In Frutillar, you can walk along the waterfront promenade and enjoy stunning views of the Osorno Volcano. Continue walking and you’ll come across heritage houses with colorful gardens—it feels like being in another country!

The cultural icon of the town is the Teatro del Lago, an international-level arts center offering concerts, ballet, artistic performances, and dance year-round. Check out the theater’s official website for the schedule and book your tickets in advance, as they tend to sell out.

To connect with Frutillar’s history, visit the German Colonial Museum of Universidad Austral de Chile, which offers tours, exhibitions, and musical interventions. The surrounding park is full of flowers, trees, and native vegetation—a bonus for anyone interested in identifying unique Chilean species. Learn more about the museum at the following link.

Finally, you can’t leave Frutillar without visiting Kuchenladen, a traditional German pastry shop considered by many to have the best kuchen (German cake) in the south of Chile. If you have a sweet tooth, this is a must-stop!

2. Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas is the perfect starting point to explore Lake Llanquihue. It's a city with great food and activities for all types of travelers.

From here, you can stroll along the lakeshore, visit Petrohué Falls, or enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or boat rides. The town center is full of cafés, eateries, chocolate shops, and restaurants offering local cuisine.

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, just 40 minutes away, is ideal for trekking and birdwatching. Make sure to wear warm, comfortable clothes—the temperatures drop significantly in winter.

A must-see within the city is Cerro Philippi, perfect for hikers and adventurers. It features three lookout points where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, lake, and volcanoes. The area is rich in native flora and fauna and has mountain biking trails—perfect for every type of traveler!

3. Lake Llanquihue

Lake Llanquihue connects several top tourist destinations. You can follow a scenic route that links Frutillar, Puerto Octay, Ensenada, and Puerto Varas.

Each section offers viewpoints, picnic spots, black sand beaches, and breathtaking views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes.

The route is suitable for driving, biking, or even walking through its more tranquil stretches.

4. Puerto Octay and Surroundings

Puerto Octay is a hidden gem on the northern shore of the lake. Its calm atmosphere makes it the perfect place to disconnect from city life.

The town has preserved its traditional charm, with wooden houses, old churches, and a cozy rural feel.

From here, you can access hiking trails, small beaches, and fields offering rural and agrotourism.

Some accommodations offer experiences like fruit harvesting, cheese-making, or horseback riding in the countryside.

Local Gastronomy: Flavors of Southern Chile

All over the Los Lagos Region, you’ll enjoy a cuisine rooted in fresh ingredients, German traditions, and southern Chilean flavors.

Typical dishes include kuchen, cazuela (traditional soup), curanto (a local seafood and meat stew), and southern hake.

In Puerto Varas and Frutillar, you’ll find a wide range of cafés, craft breweries, and lakeview restaurants.

Many places use local ingredients such as berries, venison, native potatoes, and seafood. Don’t miss out on trying the local food!

Winter Activities

The Los Lagos Region is a year-round destination. Each season brings its own charm. Winter, considered the low season, also has unique attractions. Between June and August, you can visit nearby hot springs like Aguas Calientes. And for adventure tourism lovers, you can take snow excursions on Osorno Volcano.

Plan Your Trip to the Los Lagos Region
Before you go, check the weather, transportation, lodging, and seasonal activities. You can fly into Puerto Montt and then travel by road to other destinations.

Connectivity is good, with regular buses to Frutillar, Ensenada, Puerto Octay, and nearby towns. Visiting the Los Lagos Region means experiencing natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. From the peaceful waters of Lake Llanquihue to the music of Frutillar or the cuisine of Puerto Varas, there’s something for every kind of traveler.

Plan your trip and discover why this southern Chilean gem is one of the country’s most popular destinations. Enjoy your journey!