lush nature

Puerto Varas

Sitting on the shores of Llanquihue lake and overlooking the magnificent snow-capped Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes in the distance, Puerto Varas, also known as the “City of the Roses”, is a picturesque town of German colonial tradition in Chile’s lake region; the doorway to Patagonia.

The breathtaking scenery of idyllic countryside, wild rainforests, and intimidating volcanoes, is fed by the waters of deep turquoise rivers and spectacular lakes, resulting in this patagonian sanctuary that attracts all types of travellers from around the world.

rooted traditions

A little history

Puerto Varas shares a similar history to other cities in the Los Lagos region, with colonial settlers mainly from Germany and Austria arriving in the 1830’s to colonise this faraway region in exchange for land, tools and food.

Spanning 100 years, this southern town witnessed a wave of immigration and became a required stop for crossings to neighboring villages. The region prospered mainly due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the production of “alerce” shingles, trade with Chilotes (locals from Chiloé island), and agricultural activities in the extensive fields we see today.

A lot of the german traditions still remain till this day and can be appreciated in the architecture, culinary traditions and customs of the area.

Articles from our blog