| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 02/04/01 |
| Author: | Page Number: 44 |
| Copyright: Other |
Pucón
Pucón can be found in Chile’s Lake District – a stunning area of lakes, volcanoes and forests – and is a popular resort for Chilean and Argentinean holidaymakers.
Described in the guidebooks as a mecca for walkers, the abundance of activities on offer, such as volcano climbing, white-water rafting and mountain biking, along with the numerous bars in which to soak up the post-adventure rush in the evenings, Pucón boasts an atmosphere to rival most ski resorts.
We climbed the snow-capped active volcano of Villarica on New Year’s Eve, clad in waterproof jackets, trousers, gaiters, and clasping ice picks provided by an agency in Pucón.
Despite the heat in the town – it must have been getting on for 40ûC – the temperature dropped significantly at the top of the volcano, and the brightness of the snow led to some painfully burnt noses and lips.
Yet this has to be one of the most exhilarating things I have ever done. Walking in single file using the ice pick to steady us, at some stages at a 45-degree incline to the volcano, and looking back on the ever-diminishing town below, it felt as if we were on top of the world.
Lago Villarica: Chile’s Lake District is stunning