Family Adventure in Torres del Paine National Park

A Symphony of Stone and Sky

Today was a day of reaching for the sky, both literally and figuratively. Torres del Paine has a way of making you feel small yet incredibly connected to the vastness of nature. The crisp Patagonian air filled my lungs as we set out to conquer two of the park's most iconic viewpoints. It was a day of hiking, laughter, and awe-inspiring vistas that will forever be etched in my memory.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Refugio Laguna Amarga. I fueled up on cereal, toast with jam, fruit and yogurt, knowing we had a big day of hiking ahead. Mateo was especially excited, his little legs eager to hit the trails. Klara and I savored our coffee, appreciating the quiet before the day's adventures truly began. I made sure to pack some extra snacks, remembering the refugio food is basic and we would need the extra energy for the hikes.


Experience unparalleled natural beauty and cozy comfort at Refugio Laguna Amarga in Torres del Paine National Park.

First on our agenda was Mirador Cuernos. The trailhead was easily accessible, and the path was relatively gentle, making it perfect for a family hike. The crisp morning air invigorated us as we set off, Mateo chattering excitedly about spotting guanacos. The landscape unfolded before us in layers of beauty – the turquoise waters of Lake Nordenskjöld, the vibrant green meadows, and the imposing granite peaks of the Paine Massif.

The hike to Mirador Cuernos was relatively short, only 6.4 kilometers round trip, and the trail didn't gain much elevation. This made it manageable for Mateo, who, despite his initial enthusiasm, needed a few piggyback rides along the way. The views were worth every step. The Cuernos del Paine, with their distinctive horn-like peaks, dominated the horizon, their jagged silhouettes piercing the sky.


Discover the breathtaking views of Cuernos del Paine at Mirador Cuernos, a must-visit scenic spot in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile.

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't mean to take.

We spent a good hour at the Mirador Cuernos, soaking in the panoramic views and snapping photos. Mateo, ever the curious explorer, was fascinated by the small wildflowers that dotted the landscape. Klara, with her architect's eye, admired the intricate rock formations and the way the light played on the mountains. As a mobile app developer, I couldn't help but think how incredible it would be to capture this view in a tourism app, allowing others to experience its beauty virtually.

After our morning hike, we drove to El Ovejero for lunch. This restaurant is known for its traditional Patagonian dishes, and I was eager to try their famous lamb. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after our morning hike. The menu boasted an array of local specialties, and the staff was incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. Mateo enjoyed a simplified version of the lamb dish, while Klara and I savored the rich flavors of Patagonia, paired with a glass of local red wine.


Experience authentic Patagonian cuisine at El Ovejero, nestled in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park.

With our bellies full, we embarked on our afternoon adventure: Mirador Británico. This hike was significantly more challenging than Mirador Cuernos, with a steeper incline and a longer distance. We drove to the Paine Grande area and started our trek from the 'Paine Grande' Refugio. The trail was well-marked, but the terrain was rocky and uneven, requiring sturdy hiking boots and a good level of fitness. I was grateful for the hiking app I had developed, which helped us navigate the trail and track our progress.

The hike to Mirador Británico took us through the heart of the French Valley. As we ascended, the views became increasingly spectacular. We passed by the serene Lago Skottsberg and Lago Pehoe, their turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. The trail wound its way through lush forests and across babbling brooks, offering glimpses of the glaciers clinging to the mountain slopes.

The final ascent to Mirador Británico was the most challenging part of the hike. The trail became steeper and rockier, and the wind picked up, making it feel even more strenuous. Mateo, bless his heart, was a trooper, but he definitely needed a lot of encouragement and a few more piggyback rides. Klara and I took turns carrying him, reminding each other why we embarked on this adventure in the first place.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we reached Mirador Británico. And the view… it was simply breathtaking. A 360-degree panorama of granite peaks, glaciers, and verdant forests unfolded before us. The iconic peaks of the Paine Grande and the Cuernos del Paine stood tall and majestic, their snow-capped summits piercing the clouds. The French Glacier cascaded down the mountain slopes, its icy blue hue a stark contrast to the surrounding greenery.


Experience the breathtaking views at Mirador Británico in Torres del Paine National Park, where nature's beauty unfolds in stunning panoramas.

We spent a long time at Mirador Británico, simply absorbing the beauty of the landscape. Mateo, surprisingly, was mesmerized by the view, pointing out the different peaks and glaciers with childlike wonder. Klara and I exchanged knowing glances, grateful for this shared moment of awe and inspiration.

The hike back down was easier on the lungs but harder on the knees. We took our time, carefully navigating the rocky terrain and enjoying the changing light as the sun began to set. By the time we reached the trailhead, we were exhausted but exhilarated.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at Las Dos Rosas de Paine. This Chilean restaurant is known for its traditional dishes and cozy atmosphere. After a long day of hiking, we were all craving comfort food. Las Dos Rosas de Paine did not disappoint. We feasted on empanadas, cazuelas, and asados, savoring the authentic flavors of Chile. Mateo especially loved the pastel de choclo, a traditional Chilean corn pie. The warm and friendly service added to the overall experience, making us feel like we were dining in a local family's home.


Discover authentic Chilean cuisine at Las Dos Rosas de Paine - where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of Paine.

As the day drew to a close, we made a pit stop at Pampa Restobar for a nightcap. I opted for a local craft beer, while Klara enjoyed a glass of Chilean wine. Mateo, of course, had a glass of juice. The restobar had a lively atmosphere, with music and laughter filling the air. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day in Torres del Paine.


Experience the authentic taste of Chile at Pampa Restobar in Puerto Natales, where grilled delights and local flavors await.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit the Mylodon Cave Natural Monument and Mirador Valle del Francés. Mateo is particularly excited about the cave, as he's been reading about prehistoric animals. We also plan to stop by Patagoniawool | Premium 100% Natural Wool to pick up some souvenirs for our friends and family back in Potsdam.

Today was a testament to the power of nature to inspire and rejuvenate. As I reflect on the day's adventures, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty of Torres del Paine with my family. It's moments like these that make all the challenges of travel worthwhile.

As I write this, I'm sipping on a cup of mate, the traditional South American beverage, and feeling incredibly content. The memories of today's hikes, the stunning vistas, and the shared laughter with my family will stay with me long after we leave Torres del Paine. This trip is not just about seeing beautiful places; it's about creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds that tie us together. And for that, I am eternally grateful.