Route of the Seven Lakes
Argentina
The most beautiful short drive in South America, Ruta Nacional 40 and Ruta Provincial 234 through the Andes foothills between Bariloche and San Martín de los Andes, threading through seven glacier-fed Andean lakes of extraordinary blue-green clarity: Nahuel Huapi, Espejo, Correntoso, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, and Machónico. The Swiss Alps transplanted to Patagonia.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Bariloche
Patagonian alpine resort on Nahuel Huapi's southern shore. Artisan chocolate shops and Cerro Catedral ski fields mark the route's start.
- Villa La Angostura
Lakeside village on a Nahuel Huapi peninsula. Boat access reaches Los Arrayanes, a 200-year-old cinnamon-barked arrayán myrtle forest.
- Lago Correntoso
One of the world's shortest rivers (200 m) links Correntoso to Nahuel Huapi. The 1917 Hotel Correntoso overlooks the fly-fishing confluence.
- Lago Espejo
Mirror Lake's still surface reflects beech forest and Andean sky in near-perfect symmetry. The most photographed reflection on the route.
- Lago Falkner
A deep glacial lake flanked by lenga beech slopes and snow-streaked peaks. A roadside beach offers the clearest swimming on the circuit.
- San Martín de los Andes
Refined Andean town on Lago Lácar's shore. Lanín Volcano (3,776 m) dominates the skyline above wooden storefronts and lamb asado smoke.
Where to Eat
- El EsquiadorArgentinian
Cozy spot in Villa La Angostura known for hearty local dishes and warm ambiance.
- MorphenPatagonian
Offers a fusion of Patagonian flavors with modern twists in San Martín de los Andes.
- La Costa del PuebloSeafood
Renowned for fresh seafood and lakeside views in San Martín de los Andes.
Things to Do
- Cascada VuliñancoWaterfall
A picturesque waterfall along the Seven Lakes Route, ideal for a short hike and photos.
- Los Arrayanes National ParkNational Park
Home to unique cinnamon-barked arrayán trees, accessible via a scenic trail.
- Mirador BandurriasScenic Viewpoint
Offers panoramic views of Lake Lácar and surrounding mountains near San Martín de los Andes.