The windows of the bus were steamed up when we woke up in the morning. We had been told that the difference between Valparaiso and Pucón was like the difference between Mediterranean and Northern Europe. What that meant in reality was that we had left the sunshine and warmth behind and needed to get used to some rain and cloudy, grey skies.

It was raining in Pucón but not that much, it was more overcast with a few spots of rain, so we could manage the walk into town to our hostel. Maria lived in Pucón for about 3 months, but that was 7 years ago and there has been a fair bit of changes in that time.

Once we had ourselves oriented, it was an easy enough walk to Hostal la Nuez. Apart from being early in the morning, we were the only ones staying here so it was a struggle to get the door answered and let in. The hostel has a really nice lounge/dining/kitchen area and our room is like a cottage style with private bathroom. The beds and the pillows are incredibly comfy, especially after having to sleep on the bus last night.

We dropped our bags and headed into town for some breakfast. Trawen Cafe was one of the first we saw and the menu looked good. It was a good choice, good coffee and very good food.

After breakfast we went to tourist information for some tips on what to do and who with while in Pucón. Armed with some more information we went away to digest it and speak with some of the tour agencies in town.

Mid afternoon we went to Cassis for coffee and cake. Their hot chocolate is still as good as 7 years ago. Their selection of cakes is incredible and they taste even better than they look. We will definitely be going back.

We walked off the cake with a wander round the lake edge from Playa Grande past the peninsula to La Poza. It was still pretty overcast so the lake didn't look very spectacular.

Of all the agencies doing the Volcan Villarrica climb, Patagonia Experience seemed to be the best choice and after speaking with them, David, Andy and Carlee booked the climb for Saturday when the weather should be better. Included in the cost of the climb was the option to either get free bikes for the day or take a tour to the thermal pools. We chose to take the bikes tomorrow and they even said Maria could take one for free too.

We booked a hire car for 3 days that we will collect tomorrow night so we can do a small tour of the 'River Region'.

Having the hostel to ourselves, we decided to cook there instead of eating out. There was a roaring wood fire and with a bottle of red wine, the pasta went down a treat.

The hostel has a resident dog, Fiona, who spends her time between the streets and her kennel out the back. She is a big, fearsome looking dog, but one of soppiest you will ever come across. The Brazilian girl who comes to work in the hostel brings her dog, Luz, which is equally good natured and loves being petted.