Lake Quillén Area

Some outings aim at seeing new spaces. Others, like a visit to Lake Quillén, put our senses to the test due to the strong presence of nature all around.

We set out from Aluminé heading southwards up to a fork where we turned left towards the mountain range. As soon as we turned, the Quillén River started to escort us and we could see several fly-casters accurately testing their skills. We got past several inns and estancias devoted to cattle raising and agricultural tourism, which open their hunting preserves during the season.

We stopped in front of some small wooden houses inside the Currumil Mapuche community. Its domestic animals were scattered around. We bought some tortas fritas and had a chat with two ladies whose skin was beaten by the weather. They offered their woven items and woodwork. “Cars did not use to be seen usually around here. But now, in the summer, we see many people going to the lake”, said the younger one.

We resumed our journey and were welcomed by Lanín National Park, its native species and a certain degree of humidity. Most of the woods are made up by coihues and lengas but there are also monkey-puzzle trees and introduced species which succeeded in becoming adapted to the local climate. The protected space allowed the blooming of very beautiful flowers making contrast with the green background.

We came close to the park ranger station in order to get some information and learn how to move within this area. We were heading towards the northern shore of the lake, which is low, extensive and of course made of gravel.


The Majestic

We were amazed by the Lanín Volcano and its almost 4,000 meters of height as well as its ever-present snow. It was gazing at us from the heights behind some hills. We found a simple primitive camping site with tables, benches and restrooms.

We felt the soft purring of an outboard motor as a small watercraft passed in front of us. We heard a friendly "Hello!" coming from it. Though trolling is not allowed, motorboats may transport passengers inside the water body. The river is a good fishery and only fly-fishing catch and release is permitted in order to preserve the species.

Countless trails start at Lake Quillén. There is one that joins it to Lake Hui Hui and which ensures a classic hiking tour, ideal for those who love walking around the local woods and mountains. The steepest stretch is located at the beginning of the circuit. After that, the path is plain and easy. A total round trip of thirteen kilometers is to be calculated as camping is not allowed at the end of the trail and it is necessary for hikers to return. It may be covered either on foot or by bike.

The perfect finale was the finding of strawberries in the surroundings, just as we learned that Quillén stands for "strawberry field" in the Araucano tongue. Nature always makes sure it leaves an imprint of sensations in our memory.