Panguipulli: 54km (33 miles) S of Villarrica; Lican Ray: 31km (19 miles) S of Villarrica
Few daylong sightseeing drives surpass the beauty of the Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes) region south of Pucón, where you can follow a half-paved, half-dirt loop around Lago Calafquén, with stops in the picturesque resort towns Panguipulli and Lican Ray. As its name implies, the region is home to seven lakes, one of which is across the border in Argentina, and all are set among rugged, verdant mountains that offer photo opportunities at every turn. Because this area is also home to Chile's best hot springs, Termas Geométricas, it makes sense to make a detour here. This can be done by driving to Coñaripe and heading left toward Parque Nacional Villarrica (follow signs for the park or Pualafquén). For a more adventurous drive, and only if you have a rental car with high clearance (4*4 is necessary during inclement weather), drive the highly recommended loop through the national park from the other direction.
