The journey from north to south Chile is a dauntingly long one and you’ll want to know where to stop as you head into the southern end of the country. Puerto Montt is that perfect resting point. This capital city of the Lakes District is home to many of the best restaurants in the region. It also boasts some spectacular views over the ocean and up towards the imposing peaks of the Andes and, with some fascinating colonial heritage to discover as well, Puerto Montt is a great place to recharge your batteries.
Areas & Neighborhoods in Puerto Montt
Avenue Angelmo — This bustling street is a dizzying blur of colourful market stalls and seafood restaurants. Try the local street foods such as smoked mussels or the edible sea plant cochayuyo. Once you are satisfied you can pick through the endless array of arts, crafts and trinkets on offer.
Chinquihue and Angelmo — If you head on to the end of Avenue Angelmo you’ll find the scenic villages of Chinquihue and Angelmo. These picturesque spots are rich with local crafts and home to a lovely fishing port. As well as picking up some wonderful artefacts to take away with you, you’ll also be able to enjoy fine local foods at the restaurants and cafes there.
Los Lagos Region, the Region of the Lakes — Puerto Montt is capital of this region, which is home to Chile’s largest island, Chiloe, and its second largest lake, Llanquihue. This spectacular landscape is rich with ski resorts, hot springs and recreational fishing. It’s also where you’ll discover the fascinating Monte Verde, one of the America’s oldest archaeological sites.
Reloncavi Estuary — This dramatic fjord is surrounded by a number of national parks that include Alerce Andino National Park, Hornopiren National Park, Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, Llanquihue National Reserve and the Cochamo Valley. The fjord rests in the shadow of the towering Yate Volcano, offering a spectacular contrast.
Things to See in Puerto Montt
In Puerto Montt itself you can enjoy the sights of the Plaza de Armas square and the cathedral or venture up to the town viewing point to enjoy epic vistas across the town towards Chiloe Island. A short hop across the Chacao Channel will bring you to the delightful Chacao Village, with its plethora of architectural heritage. From there, the rest of Chiloe island will open up before you, with its endless variety of national monuments and wonderful landscapes to enjoy.
Things to Do in Puerto Montt
As the hub of the Region of the Lakes, Puerto Montt is the perfect base camp for anyone looking to get stuck in to the area’s huge selection of outdoor activities. There’s everything from hiking, rafting, kayaking and canyoning to horse riding and volcano-climbing available all year round, and you can even take to the slopes for incredible skiing in the winter.