Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Futaleufu, Chile

A Day of Tranquil Exploration

Today was all about embracing the quiet beauty surrounding Futaleufu. Lena and I set out to explore some of the lesser-known spots, hoping to find a deeper connection with this stunning region. It turned out to be a day filled with serene landscapes and delightful local flavors, offering a perfect balance of nature and culture.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Yunta. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of traditional Chilean breakfast fare were too inviting to pass up. I opted for a classic *desayuno completo*, while Lena chose a lighter option with fresh fruit and yogurt. Fuelled up, we were ready for our first adventure: Rio Espolon.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Río Espolon, a hidden gem in Chile’s Los Lagos region perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
The drive to Rio Espolon was scenic in itself, with glimpses of the Futaleufu River and the surrounding mountains. Rio Espolon, a tributary of the Futaleufu River, is known for its calmer waters, making it a popular spot for families and those seeking a more relaxed experience. We decided to take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the views of the crystal-clear waters and the lush greenery. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle flow of the river and the occasional birdsong. Although I'm more used to the hustle of Berlin, there was something incredibly calming about the unhurried pace of nature here.

We learned that Rio Espolon is not only a beautiful spot but also offers family-friendly rafting trips. I can imagine it would be a fantastic way to introduce children to the wonders of white-water rafting. Maybe next time, we'll bring some of our friends' kids along for a memorable adventure. For now, though, the peaceful walk was exactly what we needed.

The beauty of Futaleufu lies not just in its famous rapids but also in its quiet corners, where nature whispers its secrets to those who listen.

After spending a couple of hours at Rio Espolon, we drove towards Laguna Oscura.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Laguna Oscura in Futaleufú, Los Lagos – a serene retreat in the heart of Chilean Patagonia, perfect for nature lovers.
The name itself, Dark Lagoon, hinted at a mysterious beauty, and we were eager to discover what it held. The drive took us through winding roads, offering panoramic views of the Patagonian landscape. As we approached the lake, the scenery became even more dramatic, with towering mountains framing the vivid blue waters of the lagoon.

Laguna Oscura is a hidden gem, a tranquil oasis away from the more crowded tourist spots. We parked the car and walked down to the lakeside, where we were greeted by an awe-inspiring vista. The water was incredibly clear, reflecting the surrounding mountains like a mirror. Lena, with her keen eye for photography, was immediately captivated. She spent a good hour capturing the stunning scenery from different angles, while I simply sat by the shore, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. I must admit, even my pragmatic software developer's mind couldn't help but be moved by the sheer beauty of the place.

We found a secluded spot and enjoyed a simple picnic lunch, savoring the moment and the incredible views. It's amazing how food tastes so much better when enjoyed in such a setting. As we ate, we talked about our life back in Berlin, our jobs, and our dreams for the future. It was one of those precious moments where everything felt right in the world.

With the afternoon sun beginning to dip, we decided to head back to Futaleufu. But not before stopping for a late lunch at Rio Grande Restaurant.


Savor the essence of Chilean cuisine at Rio Grande Restaurant in Futaleufú - where local flavors meet stunning views.
This place had been recommended to us by several locals, and we were excited to try their Patagonian cuisine. The restaurant had a rustic charm, with wooden beams and cozy fireplaces, perfect for a chilly November evening. I opted for the grilled Patagonian lamb, while Lena chose the *merluza austral*, a local fish. Both dishes were cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. We also tried a local craft beer, which was a perfect complement to the meal.

As the evening approached, we decided to check out Restobar El Patagón.


Discover the essence of Patagonia at Restobar El Patagón, where authentic flavors and a welcoming atmosphere unite.
It was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists mingling and sharing stories. We ordered a couple of *pisco sours* and sat by the window, watching the town come alive as the night fell. Lena and I chatted about the day’s adventures, already feeling a sense of nostalgia for the beautiful landscapes we had explored.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Mirador Del Condor and Pumallen Park, hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic Andean condors and explore more of Futaleufu's natural beauty. I'm also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at Once Once Restaurant for breakfast and Karü Susheria Futaleufú for lunch. It's exciting to think about new adventures and new flavors that await us.

As I reflect on today, I'm reminded of how important it is to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. Futaleufu has a way of doing that to you, stripping away the noise and distractions and allowing you to connect with nature and yourself. It's a lesson I'll be taking back with me to Berlin, and one I hope to carry with me always. Perhaps this trip will inspire me to explore the nature closer to Berlin as well. I've heard good things about Spreewald, maybe it's time to finally check it out.

For now, though, I'm content to be here, in this moment, with my wife, in this beautiful corner of the world. The adventure continues, and I couldn't be more grateful.