The Argentinean Lakes District has long been one of Argentina’s tourism meccas with its really picturesque lakes, forest, islands and alpine style villages and towns. It attracts visitors who love nature and scenery in summer as well as winter sports fans in winter for its ski season. You arrive at Bariloche on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi first but, in our opinion, the town itself has rather outgrown its former charm and we suggest heading further along the lake towards the border with Chile to explore this pretty region. Lakes framed by rare pine forest and bordered by high snow-capped mountain peaks make for a really striking backdrop for all sorts of outdoor activities, from sailing to white water rafting, kayaking, riding, hiking and even golf and fly-fishing as well as soaking up the beautiful scenery. The further you get into the wilds of the Andean foothills, the higher the chances of local wildlife including condors flying overhead on the thermal currents.

Further along the lake is a breath-takingly scenic road trip that meanders through this beautiful landscape, known as ‘The Seven Lakes Route’ from Villa la Angostura towards San Martin de los Andes. Huge estancias or ranches dot the land where you can ride with the gauchos, hike local trails or learn to fish in local streams and lakes in a family-owned and hosted lodge. Hiring a car works well here if you want to explore under your own steam with easy and quiet roads to travel on. You can also head across easily into Chile via the Lakes Crossing to arrive in Puerto Varas for a great way to explore Patagonia on both sides of the Andes.