Puerto Montt – Puerto Varas – 20 km
The short ride to picturesque Puerto Varas was my first cycle in a long while.
Founded by German settlers and still known as a place with strong German
traditions, Puerto Varas was picture-postcard pretty. The area was highly touristy
due to its location on the shore of Llanquihue Lake, its unmistakably Germanic
architecture, pretty residential neighbourhoods, and well-tended gardens.
Scenic places are bound to have hordes of backpackers, fancy hotels and pricey
restaurants. Regrettably, the weather was overcast and drizzling. Thus, there was
no glimpse of the famed Osorno volcano or the snow-capped peaks of Mt Calbuco
and Mt Tronador from across the lake.
I was happy my ankles held out and felt more confident to continue my travels.
Walking caused some discomfort, but it gave no problems biking.
Puerto Varas – Frutillar – 43 km
Frutillar was the next settlement on the lake and one more town founded by
German settlers in 1852/6. During this time, countless German settlers arrived
under the official colonisation programme of Southern Chile.
Frutillar had no camping on the shores of the lake, but we found a lovely spot in
someone’s garden under a large cherry tree. I was happy the second day of cycling
went well without any aches or pains.
Frutillar – Osorno – 70 km
One couldn’t wish for a better start to a recovery ride. Route 5, or the Pan-
American Highway, was in excellent condition with a broad shoulder. A tailwind, as
well as beautiful sunny weather, made it effortless riding.