Frutillar Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to eat and shop in Frutillar, Chile with our comprehensive travel guide to this charming town in Southern Chile. Plan your trip now and enjoy an unforgettable experience.


Introduction to Frutillar

Nestled between the Andes and Lake Llanquihue, Frutillar is a charming town located in the Los Lagos region of Southern Chile. Known for its German heritage, the town exudes a distinct European charm. With a population of just over 10,000 inhabitants, Frutillar offers visitors a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing vacation. In this guide, we will share with you the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and where to eat and shop in Frutillar.

List of Places to Visit in Frutillar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

There are several cultural attractions in Frutillar that visitors will surely enjoy. The Museo Colonial Alemán showcases the town’s German heritage through its architecture and displays. The Teatro del Lago is a world-class concert hall that hosts music and dance performances throughout the year. The Paseo de las Costumbres is an open-air museum that features traditional customs of Southern Chile.

Natural Attractions of Frutillar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Frutillar is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the lake shore, admire the well-manicured gardens of the Jardín botánico de la Universidad Austral de Chile, or go hiking in the nearby national parks such as Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park or Parque Nacional Puyehue. For those who want a more adventurous experience, there are opportunities for kayaking, river rafting, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Frutillar

Best Things to Do in Frutillar: Activities and Tours

One of the best ways to explore Frutillar is by bike or on foot. The town offers several well-marked hiking and biking trails that take visitors to some of the most scenic spots in the area. A popular option is the Ruta de las Aguas, which takes visitors to the picturesque Saltos de Petrohué waterfall. Visitors can also take guided tours of the town or visit nearby farms and vineyards to learn about the local agriculture and winemaking traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Frutillar

Visitors who want to experience all that Frutillar has to offer can follow this week-long itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the town’s cultural attractions, including the Museo Colonial Alemán and the Teatro del Lago.
  • Day 2: Go hiking or biking on one of the town’s scenic trails or take a guided tour of the area.
  • Day 3: Visit the Jardín botánico de la Universidad Austral de Chile and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
  • Day 4: Take a scenic drive to the nearby Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park and explore its trails and waterfalls.
  • Day 5: Visit nearby farms and vineyards to learn about local agriculture and winemaking traditions.
  • Day 6: Go kayaking or river rafting on the nearby rivers or lakes.
  • Day 7: Visit the Paseo de las Costumbres and learn about traditional customs of Southern Chile.

Food and Drink Scene of Frutillar

Must-Try Dishes

Frutillar offers visitors a variety of delicious dishes to try. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Curanto: A traditional dish that consists of meat, seafood, and vegetables cooked in an underground oven.
  • Empanadas: A pastry snack filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Sopaipillas: A fried pastry that is often served with pebre, a spicy salsa.

Local Beverages

Visitors to Frutillar can enjoy several locally produced beverages. The region is known for its wine production, with several vineyards located nearby. Visitors can also try local beers, such as the Cerveza Volcanes del Sur and the Cerveza Calbuco.

Where to Stay in Frutillar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in Frutillar to suit all budgets. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Hotel Casa Kalfu: A boutique hotel located in the heart of town, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Hostal Casa del Lago: A charming guesthouse located on the lake shore, offering beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Hostelling International Frutillar: A budget hostel located in the town center, offering shared and private rooms.

What to Buy in Frutillar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Frutillar can purchase several souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Handcrafted wool products: The region is known for its wool production, and visitors can purchase handwoven wool garments and accessories.
  • German-style pastries: Frutillar’s German heritage is reflected in its food, and visitors can purchase pastries and bread from local bakeries.
  • Local wines and beers: Visitors can purchase locally produced wines and beers to enjoy at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Frutillar

Frutillar’s German heritage is still evident in the town’s architecture, food, and customs. Visitors will notice the influence of German traditions, such as the celebration of Oktoberfest and the use of the German language in local signage and menus.

Best Time to Visit Frutillar

The best time to visit Frutillar is during the summer months of December through February, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can also enjoy the town’s charm during the fall and winter months, when the foliage changes colors and snow-capped mountains provide a picturesque backdrop.

Do’s and Don’ts of Frutillar

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Take advantage of the town’s natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • litter or damage natural areas
  • trespass onto private property
  • violate local laws and regulations

Safety and Health

Safety in Frutillar

Frutillar is a safe town for visitors. However, it is always important to exercise caution, especially when hiking or biking in natural areas. Visitors should also be aware of the town’s traffic laws and regulations.

Health in Frutillar

Visitors to Frutillar should take precautions against sunburn, dehydration, and insect bites. It is recommended to carry sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent when exploring the town and natural areas.

Getting to Frutillar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Frutillar

The nearest airport to Frutillar is El Tepual International Airport located in Puerto Montt, approximately one hour away by car or bus. Visitors can take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to Frutillar.

Bus Stations Near Frutillar

The main bus station in Frutillar is located in the town center and offers frequent services to nearby towns and cities, including Puerto Montt and Osorno. Visitors can purchase tickets at the station or online.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a private transfer to Frutillar from nearby cities or airports.

How to Get Around in Frutillar

The town of Frutillar is small enough to explore on foot. Visitors can also rent bicycles or take a taxi to get around.

Where to Go Next from Frutillar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors who want to explore more of the Los Lagos region can consider visiting the nearby towns of Puerto Varas, Osorno, or Puerto Montt. These towns offer a variety of cultural and natural attractions and are easily accessible by car or bus.

Conclusion

Frutillar offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and traditions. From hiking and biking to exploring museums and historic sites, there is something for everyone in this charming town. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Frutillar and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Teatro del Lago Teatro del Lago German Colonial Museum German Colonial Museum