San Martin de los Andes: Top 5 Day Trips You Can’t Miss

So, you are visiting San Martin de los Andes, a charming town hugged by the Argentinian Andes, very picturesque in a way and absolutely ready to be your base for exploration. Beyond the town’s delightful chocolate shops and lake views is this array of pretty unbelievable day trip options. From scenic drives to tranquil lakes, very each direction holds a fresh adventure that’s very easy to enjoy. Think of it less like a checklist, that, and more like this menu of experiences waiting to be savored around San Martin.

1. The Seven Lakes Route: A Scenic Spectacle

The Seven Lakes Route, very much a legendary road trip, might be this definite must-do. As a matter of fact, It’s a scenic highway winding through Patagonia’s beauty, showcasing, very obviously, a chain of lakes, and it’s pretty scenic. Picture crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky and lush forests all around. So, each lake has pretty much its own personality – some are known for great fishing, others for their secluded beaches and the occasional campsite.

Stop at Lago Lácar and grab some picnic supplies in San Martin before you hit the road. Maybe visit Villa la Angostura, that is very much this cute little town along the way, very charming in a way. Carry your camera, actually the photo opportunities along this route are truly endless, really very memorable. Just remember, really the route is popular, so a trip in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) has its charm offering pleasant weather. Anyway, try to avoid summer crowds. Oh and be very prepared for some unpaved sections, which totally add to the adventure!

2. Lanín National Park: Volcanic Views & Hiking Trails

Lanín National Park, like your adventure hub centered around the majestic Lanín Volcano, definitely something. This looming presence isn’t just scenery; It’s a fantastic backdrop for hikes, water sports, very memorable activities and so much more. Very hike to the base of the volcano to feel its presence, really impressive in some ways. very challenge yourself to climb to the summit for views that are, like literally, unmatched if it’s within you reach.

You will find that the park contains trails, they cater to all fitness levels and they weave through old forests and cross streams. Very pack a lunch and really discover the many picnic spots available, almost perfect locations to simply relax and savor the incredible landscape that’s truly breathtaking. And too it’s almost very check out Lago Paimún or Lago Huechulafquen within the park which actually, offer options for kayaking, fishing, and also pretty gentle boat rides. The indigenous cultures’s strong impact, with sacred sites dotted around and, that add this deep cultural richness that enhances what is already spectacular nature.

3. Villa Traful: A Quaint Lakeside Escape

Looking for like that escape that’s both remote and totally serene? Then Villa Traful, actually a small village that’s along the shores of Lago Traful is truly delightful. In fact, It’s significantly quieter compared to nearby towns and really provides a restful setting.

Very walk through the pretty quiet streets, take a moment at the lovely little church, and really enjoy that peace and quiet that’s truly palpable there. Or just a short drive from the town is like that famous Bosque Sumergido – pretty much this underwater forest visible from boat trips – absolutely amazing and pretty cool in some ways. There is many of trekking routes that are nearby, so those wanting to stretch their legs and see panoramic views won’t be dissapointed either, it’s, like literally, pretty accessible. Anyway, the slow pace of life makes this place totally perfect for just disconnecting. Stop, very obviously, in a local cafe for very good cakes!

4. Termas de Lahuen-Co: Hot Springs in the Forest

For an experience that actually blends nature with pampering, a trip to Termas de Lahuen-Co, so, pretty much this thermal bath set deep within a forest, very ideal for relaxing is perfect. This location is reachable very by car and a bit of a walk that adds that little thrill. Then these thermal waters, very reputed for what is almost it’s healing properties, make a great spot to like truly let all your worries fade.

You can, too, enjoy soaking as you’re totally encompassed very much by native trees and the totally soothing sound of nearby streams. Or very simply get some pretty rejuvenating treatments like massages very available that make this truly luxurious in its very raw state of environment. And definitely visit outside the top travel times, maybe during the week, so very few other bathers are there. Anyhow consider bringing extra water. Very staying hydrated at hot springs in the middle of nowhere is key if you want a great relaxing afternoon!

5. Quila Quina: Lakeside Beauty & Mapuche Culture

Accessible either by boat across Lago Lácar or over a somewhat bumpy road, actually Quila Quina, like this little village blending beauty with an element of history, really quite something. Originally being this Mapuche settlement, its legacy creates a special culture vibe to appreciate.

Very lounge on its stunning beach and take in the views. Actually the short hike to the waterfall it has really offer incredible views of how mother nature shines, truly. Very roam through what’s actually local artisan shops for like, that completely one of a kind keepsake and gifts. Anyhow sample authentic local cooking. Especially those dishes made after Mapuche’s recipes add depth. It’s truly unforgettable flavor! Visiting Quila Quina totally provides an ideal way simply immerse into both nature’s serenity. This makes Quila Quina simply unique and memorable, that, unlike any other, showcases Mapuche background!