Explore South American Little Switzerland: 3-Day Itinerary of Bariloche’s Seven Lakes Adventure | Day 1

Bariloche is the perfect summer getaway! With its lush forests, serene lakes, and abundant sunshine, it’s a scene straight out of a youthful, heart-fluttering movie. There are countless places to explore, such as the classic Seven Lakes tour, where you can hike, cycle, boat, sunbathe, and visit charming towns—each offering a unique and delightful experience.

**Day 1️⃣**
📍**Bariloche – Villa La Angostura – San Martín🚗**
Upon landing at Bariloche airport, rent a car and embark on your self-driving adventure through the Seven Lakes. Your destination for the day is San Martín, located 200 kilometers from Bariloche, about a 3-hour drive away. Plan to spend the entire day, making stops to soak in the breathtaking scenery. By the time you reach San Martín around 8 PM, the sun will still be lingering in the sky.

**🟠TIPS:**
1️⃣ **Eating.** It’s highly recommended to have lunch in Villa La Angostura; otherwise, you’ll need to continue along Route 40 until you reach San Martín. The town is bustling with people and vehicles, and there are plenty of shops and restaurants. Choose a place that fits your needs, whether you prefer a leisurely meal or a quick bite to get back on the road.

We opted for a pasta restaurant, but the ordering, waiting, and payment process was painfully slow, which was frustrating for those used to a faster pace. To top it off, the food wasn’t even worth the wait.

2️⃣ **Photography.** Don’t miss the Rio Correntoso spot near Villa La Angostura. While most people head to Playa Lago Correntoso in Neuquén for sunbathing, there’s a lesser-known gem called Fisherman’s Beach, marked by a gray landmark on Google Maps. This hidden spot offers a wider, less crowded view of the lake and a picturesque pier extending into the water, perfect for capturing stunning photos.

On a sunny day, the blue water reflects the sky, creating a mesmerizing “blue skies and clear waters” effect.

3️⃣ **Sunset.** San Martín is nestled in a valley, so you won’t be able to see the sunset from there. When we asked the hotel owner, they suggested Mirador Bandurrias, but it involves a challenging hike through sandy forest trails, which can be unstable and fill your shoes with sand. Instead, consider stopping by the side of the road along Lago Lácar, on the way down from the mountain to San Martín on Route 40.

This spot provides a beautiful vantage point to watch the sunset, making for a memorable end to your day.