last year we went to bariloche from BA (loved it!) this january we will be in santiago. we want to go to a scenic, possibly mountainous, area. is this what pucon is? is it similar to bariloche?

No, it isn't. Bariloche is really a city and Pucon is a town.
The two sides of the Andes are quite different, although both have mountains and great scenery. Most of the rain near the Andes falls on the Chilean side making it greener. The volcanoes are mostly on this side and most of the hot springs. There are some great ones near Pucon.The Villarica volcano is visible from anywhere in town.
Pucon is the number one favourite destination in the lake district in January and February. Argentines tend to holiday in January and Chileans in February, so most places fill up for both months.
Pucon is a buzzing little town with every sort of accomodation, restaurants and nightlife. It is very well serviced for outdoor activities, trekking, rafting, riding etc. There are smaller towns in the area which are nice to stay in, but they don't have as many activities on the doorstep.
There are some wonderful national parks in the area too.

huentetu, again thank you. we are thinking pucon and will do more posts when dates become clear..........

Hello bodhijack:

Yes, Pucon is a very pleasant town. Picturesque, friendly and lots of interesting spots to see.

When we were there, a volcano was steaming but the air was clear and crisp to breath. No hint of unpleasant volcano fumes.

We were there for a short time and enjoyed our visit.

Many years ago we were in Bariloche and there is no comparison. At the time we were in Bariloche, local "spring break" was on. The town was noisy practically all night. Not so in Pucon. Lots of great chocolate in Bariloche, not so in Pucon.

Very scenic in both places.


I think that you could enjoy yourself practically anywhere in Chile or Argentina. We certainly did.

We always found both local peoples to be friendly to us gringos, no hassles, no problems, lots of willing help most of the time. Very polite to us and often most considerate.

Hope this is of help.

Woodie

Huentetu - I would like some information about lovely villages near Pucon. We have a car.Any advice about good lodges,hotels,cabins etc would be appreciated.
This area looks stunning.
Thanks
Sally

bodhijack:

We visited the lake district, including Pucon,in April a few years ago..perfect time, no crowds at all, good weather (fall in SA, including colorful foliage colors). We also enjoyed Fruitillar ...stayed at Kleine Salzburg B and B overlooking Lake Llanquihue and beautiful views of Volcan Osorno, snow covered.

Bodhi and Sally: In Pucon, don't miss staying at Hotel Antumulal..it's an experience. I have scanned photos if you wish.

Stu T.
[email protected]

sorry, forgot to add:

http://www.frommers.com/destinations...ay/H41933.html
(Hotel Klein Salzburg in Frutillar)

and:

http://www.antumalal.com/
(Hotel Antumalal, Pucon)

Stu T.