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If you're making a list of places to explore during your visit to Torres del Paine National Park, you can't miss the Francés Sector, one of our favorite routes at Las Torres Patagonia. This area is a natural treasure, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and trails that will lead you to unforgettable moments. Grab your trekking poles, because today we’ll dive into the magic of the Francés Valley.
Let’s start with the basics: Where is the Francés Valley located? This area lies at the heart of the famous W Circuit, one of the most renowned trekking routes in the national park.
To reach this valley, you can start from the east at Los Cuernos Sector or from the west at Italiano Campsite, both just under an hour’s walk away. These routes will take you along the shores of Lake Nordenskjöld, offering access to the Francés Valley—a picture-perfect view of a green forest framed by towering mountains.
One must-see spot in this valley is the glacier that shares its name: the Francés Glacier. This natural wonder of hanging ice offers the chance to witness ice chunks breaking off, creating a thunderous sound that echoes throughout the valley. Without a doubt, it’s an awe-inspiring spectacle that will make you want to linger for a while, taking in the beauty only Patagonia can offer.
As we continue our journey, we can't forget to mention the ascent to the Francés Valley viewpoint. The trail here is a bit more challenging than the rest of the hike, but trust us—it’s worth it.
As you climb, you'll be accompanied by waterfalls and ever-changing landscapes, giving you the perfect excuse to stop, catch your breath, and snap a few photos. You'll also witness the famous "foehn" winds, which swirl around Lake Nordenskjöld like mini-tornadoes. This phenomenon is caused by a unique microclimate, where dry air flows over the mountain peaks, then descends and heats up as it approaches the lake. It's truly a spectacle to behold.
Once you reach the viewpoint, your reward will be right in front of you: a stunning 360° panorama, stretching from the towering Cuernos del Paine to the Francés Glacier. When you arrive, drop your pack, stretch your legs, sit down, and take in the way the surrounding nature weaves together to create this perfect scene.
One thing that makes the Francés Valley so special—and a favorite among our visitors—is the overwhelming sense of vastness you feel here. You'll be surrounded by the sprawling Patagonian wilderness, making you feel small in the presence of its natural wonders. It’s a peaceful, profound connection with nature that many seek when they come to Torres del Paine.
Thanks to Las Torres Patagonia, the Francés Sector offers a variety of accommodations for visitors, including camping and mountain hostels. You'll also find amenities like bathrooms, WiFi access, and our Francés Coffee Shop, where you can take a break, enjoy a cold beer or a hot coffee on chilly days, and even grab a snack to sweeten your afternoon.
Our 2024-2025 season runs until April of next year, offering the best months to visit the French Valley. Whether you come in early spring or at the beginning of autumn, each month brings a new array of colors to the valley.
If you can already picture yourself trekking among majestic mountains, crossing hanging bridges, and admiring glaciers, then the Francés Sector is the perfect destination for your next adventure. At Las Torres Patagonia, we’ll help you plan your visit, offering transportation, a range of accommodation options, and useful tips to make your experience unforgettable. So don’t wait any longer—plan your vacation, book that flight, and let us take care of the adventure.
