Here at Avatar, adventure meets Chilean-German tradition. Puerto Varas has much in store for you. This city’s magical corners offer stunning views of volcanoes on the shores of Lake Llanquihue.
Avatar is nestled in a region ripe with history. In the mid-19th century, German immigrants settled on Lake Llanquihue’s shores. The Huilliche people knew this area long before. Today, Puerto Varas is one of southern Chile’s most iconic cities. It is a must-see destination in the Lake Llanquihue basin.
Puerto Varas is called “The City of Roses”. Its German architecture is unmistakable. Fine cuisine and beautiful gardens add to its charm. The Sacred Heart of Jesus church is colorful. The waterfront has views of the Osorno and Calbuco Volcanoes. It is a gateway to Patagonia and the Los Lagos Region. Here, activities abound. Trekking, riding, rafting, kayaking, sailing, fishing, and ziplining are popular. You can also enjoy skiing and historical tours.
Puerto Varas’s charm extends to its cuisine. German bakeries are highlights. You will also find stores with artisanal products.
Puerto Varas’s history began in 1853. The government sought to annex uninhabited lands in southern Chile. Lake Llanquihue was then considered a Territory of Colonization. German and Austrian immigrants settled in La Fabrica. Puerto Varas became an official municipality in 1925.
The climate is oceanic rain. Rainfall is heavy throughout the year. It increases in spring and winter. This climate nourishes the area’s lush vegetation. It is known as Bosque Siempre Verde de los Lagos. That means Evergreen Forest Lakes.
Let’s talk about places to go near Avatar. The Plaza de Armas is near the waterfront. It has a gazebo surrounded by roses. Cultural events happen here all year.
Monte Calvario is in the high area of Puerto Varas. Chapels represent the Via Crucis during Holy Week. At the top, there is an altar. A viewpoint offers views of Lake Llanquihue. You can also see the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes.
Parque Philippi was built in 1951. A cross on its summit has become an icon of Puerto Varas. Here, enjoy native flora and panoramic city views.
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is 50 kilometers from Puerto Varas. It was the first national park in Chile. Inside are Lake Todos Los Santos, the Osorno Volcano and the Saltos del Petrohué. Cerro Tronador is also found here, on the border with Argentina.
Lake Todos los Santos has turquoise waters. They are caused by melting glaciers. Boat tours are available. Catamarans sail to Peulla, connecting Chile with Argentina.
The Saltos del Petrohué are waterfalls. They are formed by the Petrohue River. Volcanic rocks from the Osorno volcano formed the waterfalls. Viewpoints offer beautiful panoramas of the falls and landscape.
Avatar is more than just a place to stay. It’s a starting point. From here, discover the adventure and tradition of Puerto Varas. Enjoy your time in this unique city.