Puerto Montt, the gateway to Chilean Patagonia – an expert guide

What can I do in four hours or less?

Founded in 1853, Puerto Montt grew to prominence as a stepping-stone between central Chile and the remote islands and bays of Patagonia. The Museo Histórico (Avda Diego Portales No.997) displays fossils, items relating to the indigenous inhabitants and photographs of Puerto Montt’s past. Once you’ve walked around, seen the plaza cathedral and taken in the views, you should explore beyond the city.

Holland America and Princess, among others, offer outings that combine, in approximately four-hour excursions, a vist to Puerto Montt with a 12-mile ride to Puerto Varas. Small and quaint, its main draw is its enviable setting on the banks of vast Lago Llanquihue, with the snow-covered Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes in the distance. Vara is more tourist-friendly than Puerto Montt and has nice restaurants and a handicraft market.

Another 16 miles north gets you to Frutillar, a township proud of its German roots, with wood-framed houses, well-kept gardens and both Lutheran and Catholic churches, as well as a museum dedicated to the settlers.

Excursions generally leave time for a look at the Angelmó handicraft market (beside the fish market) before embarking – it’s only a 400-yard walk from the tender pier.