This post is also available in: 
Español 
Português
“Anyone who does something here must be pretty crazy. But it’s fascinating.”
Those were the first words of German entrepreneur Hajo Bentzien when he and his wife Beate arrived at what would become Fundo Laguna Blanca, a breathtaking sustainable retreat in southern Chile, in late 2004.
Surrounded only by pristine native forest, shimmering lakes, and the dramatic silhouettes of nearby volcanoes, the location held something magical. The heart of the 1,200-hectare property was Laguna Blanca itself—a crystal-clear lake framed by ancient Araucaria trees, some of the oldest species on Earth. Captivated by this untouched beauty, the Bentziens decided to settle here and bring to life their ERFOLGSGUT project, originally intended for Canada.
A Family Project Born from Vision
Joined by their two sons—Marco, a newly trained organic farmer, and Maximilian, then a young adventurer—the family planned to build a self-sufficient, nature-centred community. Supported by a group of international investors, early plans included an eco-hotel, horseback-riding facilities, dairy farming, chalets, and a hilltop café overlooking the lagoon.
But in 2009, the global financial crisis hit hard. The investor consortium withdrew, their leader passed away, and the Bentziens were left alone with a vast property they could barely manage on their own. Their choice: give up or go all in. They chose the latter.
Building a Sustainable Future in Patagonia
By then, the first stables, homes, and the family’s beloved German horses had already arrived. The Bentziens sold their successful horse farm and communications agency in Germany and committed fully to this remote venture in Chile. Over time, Fundo Laguna Blanca evolved into a model for sustainable living, combining eco-tourism, organic agriculture, and sustainable forestry.
Countless interns from around the world helped develop the project. In 2015, the Bentziens’ Swiss company, WELTGRUND AG, opened participation to small shareholders, helping fund construction of the eco-lodge, completed in 2020 with a reception hall and a professional kitchen—just in time for the tragic onset of the global pandemic.
Regeneration, Reforestation, and Agroforestry
Under Marco’s leadership, the agricultural and forestry programs flourished. About 100 hectares of pristine soil were cultivated with organic crops, powered by spring-fed water and an independent energy system, helping the community achieve near self-sufficiency.
In 2018, the Universidad de Concepción recognised Fundo Laguna Blanca as a rare project preserving native forestswithin Chile. Together with ENEL, a major reforestation initiative planted over 300,000 trees, restoring biodiversity and improving the local microclimate. The project evolved into a landmark agroforestry model that combines ecological restoration with responsible land use.
Nature, Horses, and Holistic Experiences
Beate continued her lifelong passion for connecting people and horses, offering programs such as “The Horse as a Mirror of the Soul” and “Management and Horse”. Visitors can now explore more than 50 km of trails through Araucaria forests and volcanic landscapes, including routes that border the Kütralkura UNESCO Geopark and the Biosphere Reserveestablished in 2010.
The Laguna Blanca Lodge became a haven for eco-tourists, wellness travellers, and nature enthusiasts, seeking meaningful experiences that blend adventure, mindfulness, and sustainability.
A Call for Visionary Partners
Although the pandemic temporarily paused operations, the next Bentzien generation is revitalizing the project with a new concept: the Detox Lodge, integrating holistic health and ecological hospitality. Today, WELTGRUND AG invites like-minded investors, entrepreneurs, and eco-innovators to join as partners or co-owners in this extraordinary venture.
Opportunities abound—such as taking over the horse farm, collaborating in lodge and wellness programs, starting organic food production, establishing artisan workshops, or expanding forestry and renewable energy projects. From honey, herbs, and cheese to woodcrafts and ancient-grain pasta, Fundo Laguna Blanca thrives on possibility.
What began as a family’s wild dream has become a living ecosystem of ideas, sustainability, and beauty—ready for its next chapter.
If this resonates with your vision, connect with:
📧 hajo@weltgrundag.com | beate@weltgrundag.com
🌐 Learn more: www.weltgrundag.com | www.amanuk.org
Author: Beate Knust-Bentzien, January 2026
“If you are considering buying, selling, or investing in the Southern Cone, we invite you to discuss your objectives with our team and explore current opportunities on our Property Platform.”
Argentina – Brazil – Chile – Paraguay – Peru – Uruguay
The Gateway Team – When You’re Serious About Property
www.gatewaytosouthamerica.com
Latin American Real Estate News Options
The New Zealander has a distinguished career of over 30 years in 7 countries, specializing in South American real estate, agriculture, and commercial matters. As the founder of Gateway to South America, he is known for his discretion, expertise, and experience in representing active clients in the region. His extensive knowledge of the market has positioned him as a leading authority and trusted advisor.
