Theater and Trekking in One Day: Around Lake Llanquihue
2024-11-09 21:59
Patagonia is known for its incredible natural beauty and has long been a dream destination for any outdoor enthusiast. However, this land of mountains, rivers, and lakes also offers cultural activities. One such unique place is the theater in Frutillar, the heart of Northern Patagonia, near the Osorno Volcano.
Here, you can combine the incompatible - trekking during the day and going to the theater in the evening. Last weekend, I managed to do just that. A hike through a lush forest, swimming in a crystal-clear mountain lake, a scenic drive past wind turbines at sunset, hot chocolate on the waterfront, and ballet on the stage of a modern theater - all of this fit into one day.
Trekking
You can choose a trekking route for your daytime adventure - there are many in this region. We hiked along a little-known trail to Lake Cayatue.
After trekking, we jumped into the car and headed for the evening program. Frutillar is located on the opposite side of the lake from the mountains. You can reach it from two sides, and I recommend making a full circle around the lake. This road is a landmark in itself. You will see the Osorno, Calbuco, Puntiagudo, and several other volcanoes along the way.
Between the towns of Puerto Octay and Frutillar is the wind farm Parque Eólico Puelche Sur (https://maps.app.goo.gl/ep54bKhecub96hyFA). Chile has unique conditions for renewable energy - sunshine in the north, wind in the south, and the country actively attracts investments in the industry. If you time it right and drive past the grand "mills" of the power plant at sunset, you'll be treated to stunning views.
Theater
Finally, we arrived in Frutillar. It has an upper and lower part - the theater is in the lower part, on the lakeshore. There is also a cozy promenade with cafes, bars, and a pier. Before the performance, you can warm up with hot chocolate or a glass of wine with a view of the lake and volcano.
We attended a tour by the contemporary ballet company from the USA, the Limon Dance Company (https://www.limon.nyc/). In two acts, the troupe performed two entirely different pieces. I especially liked the piece "There is a time" - beautifully told stories of life and death, love and hate, happiness and suffering through dance.
The same Jose Limon was originally from Latin America, specifically Mexico. In the 1950s, he became one of the founders of the modern ballet tradition, developing the theme of natural movements and experimenting with form.
It was also a pleasure to observe the dancers themselves - the troupe seemed to gather all the variations of human beauty. Different races, figures, and faces, but all equally strong and beautiful.
The theater itself - Teatro del Lago - is an example of modern architecture and a convenient space for events. Besides the concert hall, it has a lecture hall with panoramic views of the lake and volcano, meeting rooms, and a restaurant. The theater hosts not only concerts but also business events. TEDx was recorded here. So, if you need to hold a conference for many (or not so many) people, keep this location in mind.