Exploring the Wonders of Patagonia: A Family Journey to Puerto Natales

A Fond Farewell

As our Patagonian adventure draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. There's a sense of accomplishment, having explored some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth, but also a pang of sadness, knowing that this incredible journey with David and Aina is coming to an end. Today, our final day in Puerto Natales, was all about savoring the last moments and reflecting on the memories we've created together.

Our day began, as many others have, with a delightful breakfast at Mesita Grande. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food made it a perfect spot to start our last day in Patagonia. I opted for a hearty breakfast pizza, while David enjoyed his usual scrambled eggs, and Aina went for a gluten-free pastry. It's become a tradition for us to try new things and share bites, a little ritual that always brings us closer. Mesita Grande is known for its pizzas and Italian-Patagonian cuisine. It's a very welcoming place with friendly service. The location is very comfortable, and it has a great atmosphere.


Discover the flavors of Italy at Mesita Grande in Puerto Natales—where unique pizzas meet local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.

After breakfast, we decided to visit the National Tourism Service. I wanted to gather some final brochures and maps as keepsakes of our trip. The staff there were incredibly helpful, providing us with information about the region and tips for future travels. It’s always a good idea to get some local insights, especially from a service that knows the area so well. The National Tourism Service has friendly staff and provides extensive information on local attractions. It is a great starting point for exploring Patagonia.


Discover Patagonia's natural beauty at the Puerto Natales Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure and exploration in Chilean Patagonia.

"The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask."

Next, we did a little bit of last-minute shopping at Here We Rent Stuff. We needed to pick up a few small souvenirs for friends back home and also replace the portable phone charger that I had forgotten to pack. It’s a great little shop with a wide variety of items, and the staff were very friendly and helpful. We managed to find some lovely handcrafted items that I am sure our friends will love. Turns out that Here We Rent Stuff is actually a place to rent camping equipment. They rent sleeping bags, tents, and trekking poles.


Discover the best outdoor gear and clothing at Here We Rent Stuff in Puerto Natales, your gateway to Patagonian adventures.

For lunch, we ventured to Restaurant Bahía Mansa. I had heard wonderful things about their seafood, and I was eager to try it. The restaurant lived up to its reputation, offering a delightful culinary experience with fresh, local ingredients. I savored a plate of Reineta, while David enjoyed the Magellanic Lamb. Aina opted for the seafood paella. The views from the restaurant were stunning, overlooking the water, which made the meal even more enjoyable. Bahía Mansa is known for using local sustainable raw materials.


Experience authentic Patagonian cuisine at Restaurant Bahía Mansa in Puerto Natales - where fresh ingredients meet stunning flavors.

In the afternoon, we took a leisurely walk along the waterfront, soaking in the final views of the Patagonian landscape. The crisp air, the stunning mountains, and the serene waters created a sense of peace and tranquility. We reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip: the breathtaking views of Torres del Paine, the glaciers, and the charming town of Puerto Natales. I am so glad we chose to come here. I will cherish these memories forever.

As the sun began to set, we headed to El Asador Patagónico for our farewell dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its traditional Patagonian lamb, and we were excited to experience it. The rustic and cozy atmosphere added to the charm, and the aroma of roasting lamb filled the air. The lamb was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, and it was the perfect way to end our culinary journey through Patagonia. El Asador Patagónico has been around for over two decades. It is a rustic and cozy place. Each table offers a view of the fogón, where the lamb is cooked.


Experience authentic Patagonian cuisine at El Asador Patagónico, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition amidst stunning natural beauty.

Reflecting on our time here, I realize how much this trip has meant to me and my family. We've not only witnessed incredible natural beauty but also strengthened our bonds and created lasting memories. Traveling with David and Aina always brings a unique dynamic to our adventures. David's historical insights enrich our understanding of each place we visit, while Aina's youthful energy and perspective keep us grounded and open to new experiences.

Patagonia has a way of getting under your skin, of captivating your heart with its raw beauty and untamed spirit. I am leaving a piece of my heart here, but I am also taking away so much more. The memories, the experiences, and the bonds we've strengthened will stay with us forever. I already know that we will be back. There is so much more to explore, and I can’t wait to see what adventures await us in the future.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home, carrying with us the spirit of Patagonia and the warmth of family. While there are no specific itinerary items for tomorrow, the trip home will be an adventure in itself, filled with reflections and anticipation for what lies ahead.

As I sit here, writing this final blog post from our hotel room at Hotel Costaustralis, I am filled with gratitude for this incredible journey. Thank you, Patagonia, for the memories, the lessons, and the beauty. Until next time…


Discover the charm of Puerto Natales at Hotel Costaustralis, where comfort meets adventure just steps from breathtaking landscapes.