Stretching more than 4,000 km along South America’s west coast, Chile is home to a variety of natural and cultural attractions. Its regional towns and cities entice travellers with spectacular scenery, captivating museums and activities ranging from wine-tasting to water sports.

 

Set in the picturesque Colchagua Valley, Santa Cruz is at the heart of Chile’s highly regarded wine industry. The region’s exceptional soil and balmy Mediterranean climate have produced some of South America’s finest reds over the past few years. After completing a circuit of the local vineyards, be sure to check out the Colchagua Museum, where a compelling range of artefacts trace the history of humankind in the Americas.

 

Puerto Montt is the capital of the Chilean Lakes District. It has a wonderful history museum and is the best place to organise a hike through the pristine old-growth forests of Alerce Andino National Park. Many travellers choose to stay in nearby Puerto Varas, which is set on a lake and offers a sensational range of water and adventure sports.

 

Located close to the Argentinean border, Peulla is a popular overnight spot on tours of the Lakes District. Only accessible by boat, the small village boasts a beautiful waterfall and is a great place to organise hiking, fishing and horseriding excursions in the surrounding area.

 

Surrounded by dramatic mountains, Puerto Natales is the departure point for expeditions in the spectacular Torres del Paine National Park. The local museum houses an interesting natural history collection, and there are numerous outdoor shops for those last-minute camping supplies.

 

Situated on Chile’s far-south coast, Punta Arenas is only 1500 km from the icy shores of Antarctica. The port town features several fascinating museums and a number of extravagant mansions built by wealthy 19th-century sheep farmers. A large colony of Magellanic Penguins can be seen at nearby Otway Sound.