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

Echoes of the Past in Puerto Natales

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the rich history and culture of Puerto Natales. It’s amazing how much you can learn about a place simply by wandering its streets and engaging with its local artisans. Despite the chill in the air – spring is just beginning to nudge winter aside here in Patagonia – the day was filled with warmth, from the friendly faces we met to the hearty meals we shared.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Disqueria Restaurant. I opted for the marinated salmon, a local delicacy that came highly recommended. David, ever the traditionalist, went for a hearty plate of scrambled eggs, while Aina chose a vibrant fruit salad. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant, filled with the murmur of locals and fellow travelers, was the perfect start to our day.


Experience authentic Chilean cuisine in Puerto Natales at La Disqueria Restaurant - where local flavors meet exquisite dining.

Fuelled up, we set out to explore the Circuito Histórico Urbano de Puerto Natales Empresa Braun & Blanchard. It was fascinating to learn about the Braun & Blanchard company's impact on the region's development. The historical circuit gave us a glimpse into the town's past as a bustling port for sheep farming. Walking along the streets, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like in the early 20th century, when Puerto Natales was a hub of activity.


Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Puerto Natales through its captivating urban historical circuit, a vibrant journey through time.

We then strolled towards the Muelle Braun & Blanchard. Even though only the weathered pilings remain, it’s easy to picture the pier in its heyday, bustling with workers loading and unloading goods. The views from the pier were simply stunning, with the tranquil waters of Canal Señoret stretching out before us, framed by the majestic mountains in the distance. I took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this special place.


Discover the stunning natural beauty of Patagonia at Muelle Braun & Blanchard, a picturesque pier in Puerto Natales, perfect for exploration and relaxation.

History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view.

As we stood there, gazing out at the water, David shared some interesting facts about the pier. He explained how it was built by the Braun & Blanchard company, one of the largest economic groups in the area in the early 20th century. The pier was used to ship various products obtained from the work in the ranches during the great boom of the sheep and cattle industry. In the 1920s, a workers' revolt, protesting for better working conditions, resulted in the burning of Braun & Blanchard's facilities, including its warehouses and the pier. The warehouses and the pier were rebuilt, remaining in operation for a few more years until the decline of large-scale exploitation. Today, only the pillars of the old pier remain, a symbol of the golden age of livestock traffic.

After soaking in the history at the pier, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at the Pueblito De Artesanos. This charming artisan village is a collection of small shops showcasing the talents of local craftspeople. I was immediately drawn to the beautifully woven textiles, their vibrant colors reflecting the natural beauty of Patagonia. Aina, with her keen eye for detail, admired the intricately designed jewelry, each piece telling a story of the region's rich cultural heritage.


Discover the heart of Chilean craftsmanship at Pueblito De Artesanos, a haven for unique artisan goods in Puerto Natales.

I ended up purchasing a hand-knitted scarf, the soft wool a comforting reminder of our time in Patagonia. David, meanwhile, found a beautifully carved wooden figure of a guanaco, a native animal of the region. We chatted with the artisans, learning about their techniques and the inspiration behind their work. It was heartwarming to see their passion and dedication to preserving traditional crafts.

For lunch, we chose Entre Pampa y Mar Restaurant, drawn in by its promise of authentic Patagonian cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists eager to sample the region's flavors. I decided to try the guanaco pastrami, a dish I had heard so much about. The meat was tender and flavorful, with a hint of smokiness that was simply divine. David opted for a seafood stew, while Aina, ever the adventurous one, chose the Magellanic lamb. We shared bites of each other's dishes, savoring the unique and delicious flavors of Patagonia.


Discover authentic Patagonian flavors at Entre Pampa y Mar Restaurant in Natales - where land meets sea in every delightful dish.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to El Asador Patagónico for dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its traditional Patagonian barbecue, and I was eager to try their famous cordero al palo, or spit-roasted lamb. The aroma of the roasting lamb filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that perfectly complemented the traditional cuisine.


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

When the lamb finally arrived, it was a sight to behold. The meat was succulent and tender, with a crispy skin that was bursting with flavor. David and I savored every bite, while Aina, surprisingly, devoured her portion with gusto. We paired our meal with a bottle of local red wine, its rich and fruity notes enhancing the flavors of the lamb. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, a true taste of Patagonia that I will never forget.

As we walked back to Hotel Costaustralis, the stars began to twinkle in the clear Patagonian sky. I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the history and culture of Puerto Natales with my family. Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Mylodon Cave Natural Monument and the White Narrows. I can't wait to see what new adventures await us!


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

It's moments like these, sharing experiences with David and Aina, that make me realize how precious these trips are. Life in London can get so hectic, and it's wonderful to escape and reconnect with each other in such a beautiful setting. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, and I can't wait to share them with you all.

Before heading to bed, I made a note to buy a portable phone charger tomorrow; it completely slipped my mind when packing, and I don’t want to miss any photo opportunities!