The Lake District is a region and national park in Cumbria in northwest England. A popular vacation destination, it’s known for its glacial ribbon lakes, rugged fell mountains and historic literary associations. Market towns such as Kendal, Ambleside and Keswick on scenic Derwentwater are bases for exploring the area and home to traditional inns, galleries of local art and outdoor equipment shops.
Summer (December to February): This is the peak season with warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the lakes. It’s also when you’ll find the most tourists, so expect a lively atmosphere.
Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May): These are great months to visit for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. You’ll also see the beauty of changing foliage in autumn or the spring bloom around the lakes.
Winter (June to August): If you enjoy skiing and snow sports, winter is the best time to visit. The mountains in the region, like Villarrica and Osorno, are popular for winter sports.
By Air: The Maquehue Airport (ZCO) near Temuco is the closest major airport, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from most parts of the Lake District. Puerto Montt also has an airport, El Tepual International Airport (PMC), which is another point of entry.
By Bus: Buses from Santiago or Temuco are an affordable and common way to travel to the Lake District. Travel times can vary between 8 to 12 hours depending on your departure point.
By Car: Renting a car is a great option if you want the flexibility to explore various towns and lakes at your own pace. Driving through the region offers stunning views of forests, volcanoes, and lakes.
Lago Villarrica: One of the most famous lakes in the region, surrounded by the town of Pucón and offering activities like boat tours, fishing, and hiking. Villarrica Volcano provides a stunning backdrop.
Lago Llanquihue: The second-largest lake in Chile, located near Puerto Varas. The lake offers activities like sailing, kayaking, and fishing, with beautiful views of Osorno Volcano.
Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve: A vast nature reserve with lush forests, waterfalls, and opportunities to see native wildlife. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Osorno Volcano: Known for its symmetrical shape, this volcano is a popular spot for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, with incredible views of the surrounding lakes and forests.
Petrohué Waterfalls: Located in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, these waterfalls are a popular destination for visitors, offering boat tours and hiking paths through the surrounding forests.
Hiking: The Lake District is a hiker’s paradise, with trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Popular hikes include Villarrica Volcano, Osorno Volcano, and trails around Lago Caburgua.
Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking, sailing, or fishing in the lakes. Lago Villarrica and Lago Llanquihue are ideal for these activities, as well as the lesser-known Lago Ranco.
Hot Springs: After a day of outdoor adventures, unwind at the natural hot springs in the region, such as the Termas de Huife or Termas Los Pozones.
Skiing: In the winter months, head to Villarrica or Osorno Volcano for skiing and snowboarding. The resorts in the area cater to all skill levels.
Wildlife Watching: In Huilo Huilo and Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, you can spot native wildlife, including pumas, foxes, and various bird species.
Luxury: For a more luxurious stay, there are high-end hotels like Hotel Antumalal in Puerto Varas or Pucón’s Enjoy resort offering lakeside views and excellent services.
Mid-range: You’ll find charming boutique hotels and lodges like Hotel Cabañas del Lago in Puerto Varas or Lodge en Los Volcanes in Pucón offering a mix of comfort and beautiful nature surroundings.
Budget: Budget travelers can opt for hostels or campgrounds. Hostel Pucón or Cabañas Los Coihues offers more affordable, basic accommodation options.
Local Cuisine: Enjoy Chilean staples like empanadas, curanto (a traditional stew), and mote con huesillo (a sweet drink with wheat and peaches). Asado (barbecue) is also popular in the region.
Restaurants: Some great options include La Cocina de Juanita in Pucón for delicious Chilean cuisine, or La Olla de Pueblo in Puerto Varas for tasty seafood and fresh ingredients.
Seafood: The Lake District is famous for its fresh fish and seafood. Salmon and trout are commonly featured in dishes like pescado a la plancha (grilled fish) and cazuela de pescado (fish stew).
Mapuche Heritage: The indigenous Mapuche culture is integral to the Lake District. Explore their history and traditions, including crafts, music, and food, in places like the Museo Mapuche in Temuco.
Festivals: The region hosts several annual festivals, such as Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria in Puerto Varas, which celebrates local culture with music, dance, and food.
Traditional Crafts: Valdivian culture and Mapuche craftsmanship are prevalent in the region, with many markets selling handmade goods like woolen textiles, wood carvings, and pottery.
Wild Nature: The Lake District’s natural landscapes have inspired many artists, poets, and writers, and its wilderness continues to be an important part of Chilean identity.