Hotels in Villarrica

Hostería de la Colina, Las Colinas 115 (tel./fax 45/411503; www.hosteriadelacolina.com), is owned and managed by an American couple, Glen and Beverly Aldrich, who have lived in Chile for 16 years. The inn is located on a hill with a panoramic view of the lake and volcanoes and offers seven comfortable rooms in the main house and two cottages located in the peaceful gardens, as well as a Jacuzzi. The owners will help you plan your stay, and they serve hearty Chilean meals in the pleasant dining room. Doubles run from $70 to $90 (£47-£60); cottages start at $140 (£93). Rates include full breakfast.

Patagon Andino Hotel, Matta 320 (tel. 45/419978; www.patagonandino.cl), is in a charming little house just off the park and can arrange just about any activity in the area. Doubles run $75 (£50). Hostería Kiel, General Körner 153 (tel. 45/411631; fax 45/410925), has comfortable rooms ($40-$60/£27-£40 double) and a direct view of Volcán and Lake Villarrica that you can enjoy from your very own porch. Or try Cabañas Monte Negro, at Pratt and Montt streets (tel. 45/411371); it charges $130 (£87) for six people (no credit cards), and has eight newer cabins near the lake with direct views of the volcano. Private parking or ample street parking is available and free.