Whether you appreciate the Lake District for its bucolic views and tranquil panoramas, or for the promise of adventure hidden beneath the snow-tipped mountains, we’re pretty certain you’ll fall for it. Settled by the Mapuche people long before the 16th century, it’s one of Chile’s most historically-rich regions and their noble respect for Mother Earth and nature is ever-apparent in the unspoilt surroundings. As the name suggests, an assortment of exquisite lakes characterise the region, their shores carpeted in forest and all overlooked by a volcano, each one fiercer than the last. In between, there are tiny villages dripping with charm and crystalline streams trickling through meadows and pastures, completing the chocolate-box scenery perfectly. Starting in the north, the lakeshore resort of Pucon is the home of the adventurist, with watersports-galore on Lake Villarrica and ample opportunities to climb volcanoes, hike and horse-ride. Further south, Puerto Varas is gentle and peaceful. Use it as a base to walk amongst the ancient trees of Alerce Andino National Park, explore the Germanic villages around Lake Llanquihue or boat out to Chiloé, a remote island of multi-coloured bungalows, listed churches and intriguing traditions that will stay with you for years to come.