Around Lake Llanquihue

Monday February 24, 2020

Puerto Varas, Chile

The Osorno Volcano was hiding behind the clouds today so we figured it would be a good day to rent a car and drive around lovely Lago Llanquihue.  There was a car rental place just a short walk away and Karen set us up with a little Toyota Yaris.  Both Jill and Joan offered to drive.  I'm not interested in driving but am happy to navigate.  Jill was behind the wheel all day and did a great job. 

While the clouds stayed all day the rain held off for the most part - especially when we were out walking about.  We headed out clockwise around the lake.  First stop was Frutillar.  What a gem!  Lots of German influence still seen in the architecture and the food.  There was a lovely waterfront area with several beaches.  And - a huge theatre/opera house.  Who would have guessed that such a small town would have such an amazing building!  This is very much a tourist town, and very artsy.  In addition to the theatre there were a couple of performing arts schools and lots of artisans.  And - German bakeries and restaurants.  We stopped for some kuchen (the German word for cake) and strudel; yummy!  Mine was raspberry & blueberry; so delicious

After several hours exploring Frutillar, we were back in the car and on our way to Puerto Octay.  We ate our lunches in the square then did the walk to the cemetery which happens to be on a cliff on a point overlooking the lake.  Best real estate in town!  There were several miradors on the way up and we met Manuel on the way down.  He was an older man in his yard tending his gorgeous garden which consisted largely of roses.  Joan approached him to tell him how beautiful and wonderful-smelling his garden was.  Within minutes he was bestowing flowers on us all.  And - he was a bit of a ham in front of the camera.  We probably spent a couple of hours in Puerto Octay before heading out again.

No more big stops, but we really enjoyed the drive - up and down, and winding roads.  The vistas and scenery were beautiful.  Views down to the lake were plentiful even though we couldn't see the volcano in the background.

We made just one more brief stop before heading home, at a display of columnar basalt right beside the road.  We were back to town shortly after 6 and had dinner at the hostel, chatted with Sebastian, and then headed to bed.   Sure hope we will be able to see the volcano tomorrow.