The Villarrica Volcano as seen from the town of Pucon

Photo: Stephan Sauder

With a sizeable native Mapuche population and outposts of German colonization, this region of central Chile is one of the country's most scenic spots, home to a series of great lakes, sandy beaches, thundering waterfalls, ancient forests, snow-capped volcanoes and, unsurprisingly, national parks.

The fish-rich waters and pleasant climate are a draw for anglers in particular, though the developed tourist industry here means there's plenty to occupy everyone else too: whitewater rafting and other watersports, horse-riding, hiking, canyoning, birdwatching, golf and skiing.

Head to the colonial town of Valdivia as a base to explore the surrounding beauty spots and to see the 17th century river forts nearby.