Chile's most fertile farming region and Mediterranean climate houses 3/4 of the country's population. Parque Nacional La Campana provides a breathtaking and refreshing excursion from the sprawling capital, Santiago.

When Charles Darwin climbed the summit of Cerro La Campana he was to enjoy one of his finest experiences in South America, "the setting of the sun was glorious; the valleys being black, whilst the snowy peaks of the Andes yet retained a ruby tint.

On a clear day, Chile's size is fully appreciated with the Pacific and the The Andes being visible from the the summit. Aconcagua is on the left.

A church on Plaza Los Leones in Providencia.

Near the Rio Mapocho on the way to Bellavista.

Above the city on Cerro San Cristobal is a 36 metre white statue of the Virgin Mary.

Relatively quiet respite is the leafy Plaza des Armas, and the historical centre of the capital.

Cheap and cheerful was Hotel Caribe, deserves a photo for its friendly staff.

Taking the funicular (left) is the easiest route to the summit where there are panoramic views of the city skyline, spoilt by the problems of pollution.