A weekend on the road, no fixed plans, and the best surprise—Lake Puyehue. That’s how one adventure began, when two travelers decided to take a break from their routine and explore a hidden gem in Chile. At South Nomads Campers, we know that the best stories aren’t always planned, and this trip is a perfect example. With a fully-equipped camper and breathtaking scenery, the magic unfolded where they least expected it.
Getting Ready for the Adventure:
It all began on a Friday afternoon in Puerto Varas. After stocking up at the local supermarket, we were ready for the weekend. With no fixed destination, we decided to head toward Lake Puyehue, not quite knowing what awaited us. We left in the evening, driving our Camper Truck 4X4, and by the time we arrived around 10:00 PM, it was pitch dark. All we could see were the silhouettes of trees and the peaceful night sky, filled with stars.
When we met the friendly staff member who welcomed us, we told her how much we’d love to camp right next to the lake. She smiled and suggested the perfect spot for us to set up. We parked the camper and settled in for the night, with no idea what the morning would bring.
Waking Up to a Hidden Paradise:
The next morning, we woke up around 8:00 AM, and what a surprise it was! We stepped outside and were immediately struck by the incredible view we had woken up to. We were surrounded by towering trees, with the lake just a few steps away from our camper. The calm waters stretched out before us, reflecting the blue sky and mountains in the distance. It was a place we had no idea existed, and it felt like we had stumbled upon a hidden gem.
Though there was a slight chill in the air, the serenity of the place was overwhelming. We could hear the peaceful lapping of the water against the shore, and in the distance, we noticed a few fishermen in their kayaks, quietly casting their lines. It was a scene that felt untouched by time—a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
A Magical Sunset:
As the day went on, we couldn’t help but notice how stunning the landscape became as the evening approached. We spent the afternoon lounging by the lake, breathing in the fresh air and soaking in the surroundings. Then, as the sun began to set, we decided to make it even more special. We grabbed a couple of cold beers and put together a delicious charcuterie board—aged cheeses, crispy crackers, olives, cured meats, and some local treats like fresh bread, honey, and nuts. With everything ready, we watched as the sky turned into a masterpiece. The sunset was absolutely incredible—fiery oranges and pinks painted the sky as the sun dipped behind the mountains, casting a golden glow over the lake.
We sat there in awe, sipping our beers, nibbling on the picoteo, and feeling like we were part of the landscape. The calm water reflected the vibrant colors of the sky, and in that moment, it was hard to imagine a more perfect evening. It’s moments like these that make road trips unforgettable—the unexpected beauty and simple joys that take your breath away.
The Freedom of Traveling in a Camper:
Traveling in a South Nomads camper gave us the freedom to go wherever we wanted, without the constraints of schedules or pre-planned routes. We had all the time in the world to enjoy the moment. Slow mornings, fresh air, and the calm of the lake were exactly what we needed. And for a bit of work? No problem—we connected to Starlink and got a little bit done while taking in the view.
At night, as the temperatures dropped, we were able to turn on the camper’s heater about 20 minutes before bed, which made all the difference. The slight chill in the air was no match for the warmth and comfort of the camper. It was the perfect way to end each day—cozy, relaxed, and ready to rest before the next adventure.
The Surprise of Lake Puyehue:
Lake Puyehue, with its pristine nature and tranquility, offered more than we could have imagined. From hiking nearby trails to unwinding in the Puyehue Hot Springs, we quickly realized this wasn’t just a stop along the way—it was a destination in itself. The peaceful surroundings, the quiet fishermen, and the beauty of the landscape made it feel like we had stepped into a different world.
Sometimes, the best adventures aren’t the ones you plan—they’re the ones you stumble upon. As we discovered, the best places are often just around the corner, waiting to surprise you. Ready to find your own hidden paradise? Book your next road adventure with South Nomads Campers and let us help you discover the magic of the road.
Remember, the best surprises are often unplanned. So, what will your next stop be?