Chile's Torres del Paine Voted 8th Wonder in the World - East Idaho News
World News

Chile’s Torres del Paine Voted 8th Wonder in the World

  Published at

Getty 110113 TorresdelPaine?  SQUARESPACE CACHEVERSION=1383335440367iStock/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) — The lakes, glaciers, waterfalls and granite towers of Chile’s Torres del Paine are a wonder to behold. The “8th Wonder,” one travel website says.

After receiving 5 million votes on VirtualTourist.com from visitors across the world, the national park has been named the “8th Wonder of the World” by the site, beating out more than 300 entries from 50 countries in a contest launched earlier this year.

“With its awe-inspiring physical attributes and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no wonder our site visitors named Torres del Paine the winner,” said Kimberly Stirdivant Wason, head of PR and marketing for VirtualTourist.

Chilean-born actor Cristian de la Fuente, who has appeared on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars and Private Practice, agreed with the designation.

“Chilean Patagonia is an amazing area of unlimited and unspoiled nature,” he said in an announcement on Good Day LA. “Whether on foot or by car, one of the most impressive destinations this region has to offer is Torres del Paine.”

Torres del Paine occupies 935 square miles, and features myriad trails and mountain peaks. The highest point reaches 9,462 feet. Last year the site attracted more than 139,000 hikers.

“Being named the 8th Wonder by VirtualTourist, one of the most respected names in travel, we hope will bring even more adventure seekers out to Torres del Paine to experience its unique splendor,” said Chile Secretary of Tourism Daniel Pardo.

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

SUBMIT A CORRECTION