Visit Pucon, Chile

One of the country's top destinations for both foreign visitors and Chileans, Pucon is justifiably popular.

Nestled on the shores of the mighty Lake Villarrica and with permanent views from every angle of the perfect snow-capped symmetry of Volcan Villarrica, the town has a lively holiday feel to it and plenty of services to match. While the pleasures of Pucon and its stunning setting are undeniable, this is also the base for a wide range of outdoor excursions from climbing the volcano to relaxing in thermal springs or white-water rafting in the foaming Rio Trancura.

Take away a souvenir of your time in Pucon from the Feria Artesanal on the road up to the Villarrica volcano, where you can watch the artists carving and painting their beautiful wooden gifts and handicrafts. Pucon is famous for the beautiful and intricate wooden flowers made and displayed all over the town, which make wonderful, if delicate, gifts.

It is worth noting that the best hotels in Pucon are outside the town on the shore of Lago Villarica. This does mean that you can feel a bit 'captive' to their restaurants - however you can always get a taxi into town for just a couple of pounds.