Pillán Ski Center
Beginner and intermediate runs, plus an area with jumps for experienced riders.
Winter · July to September
Snow on the very same volcano
The snow season depends on the weather and the wind. Check the ski center’s status before heading up.
Hot tub in the snow
The best end to a cold day: hot water, falling snow and the forest in silence. Book it 24 hours in advance.
Autumn colors
Between April and June the forest changes color and the volcano starts to get its snow. Ideal for gentle walks and photos.
Summer · January to March
The lake, minutes away
Long days and lots of sun. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a cap and plenty of water; in high season, patience on the road between Villarrica and Pucón.
Lake Villarrica beaches
Volcanic-sand beaches in Molco, Villarrica and Pucón. Bring water shoes and a sunshade: the black sand reflects the heat.
Kayak and SUP
Mornings on the lake tend to be the calmest. Kayaks and boards are for rent in Pucón and Villarrica.
Pillán in summer
The ski center opens in summer mode, with activities for couples and families on the volcano’s slopes.
All year round
Parks, waterfalls and hot springs
The Araucanía lake area is worth visiting in any season. Some trails close or change their hours depending on the weather.
Villarrica National Park
Forests, lava flows and viewpoints on the slopes of the Rukapillán. Two of its entrances are close by.
Huerquehue National Park
The Los Lagos trail climbs through araucaria trees to mountain lakes. A full-day classic.
Salto del León
A waterfall in native forest, with a short, easy trail. A good half-day option.
Ojos del Caburgua
Turquoise pools and waterfalls on the way to Lake Caburgua. Easy to combine with Huerquehue.
Local hot springs
Several hot springs surround Pucón and the lake. Ideal on rainy days or after the snow. Booking ahead is a good idea.
Lakes circuit
Villarrica, Calafquén, Caburgua: a drive around the lakes of Araucanía, with viewpoints over the volcano.
From the cabin
Sometimes the best plan is staying in
- Starry skiesFar from the city, with no light pollution. On clear nights the sky fills with stars.
- Sunset on the volcanoThe Rukapillán turns pink as the sun goes down, right outside the window.
- Birds and native forestBirdsong at dawn and, with luck, hares crossing the yard.
- Fire pit on the deckFirewood, something to share and the volcano as a backdrop.
Before you go
Tips from those of us who live here
Dress in layersUp here the cold feels stronger. Bring a windbreaker in case the puelche blows (the dry wind from the Andes). Rainfall is abundant.
Sun protectionIn the snow and at the beach the sun is strong: sunscreen, sunglasses and a cap.
Alternative routeIf the lakeshore road is congested, the Segunda Faja links Villarrica and Pucón with volcano views.