Chile’s Rose City

Puerto Varas, or the City of Roses, in Chile, is just that, with rosebushes lining the streets, both in the median as well as along the curb. The setting with Osorno Volcano in the background is breathtaking.

On a March trip to the Lake District of Chile, our tours included a half day in and around Puerto Montt and a half day to visit Frutillar, a small, German-style village, also on Lake Llanquihue.

One day was spent going up Osorno, where there is a ski resort and spectacular views. We were really impressed by all the beautiful flowers and trees everywhere. To see fuchsias and alstroemerias (lilies) growing wild along the road was such a treat. We found out they are native to that area.

On our last day we visited Chiloé Island, across the channel (by ferry) from Puerto Montt. We felt this was the least interesting of the sightseeing we had done.

SAMUEL R. LEAVITT

San Mateo, CA