Patagonian Classics part 1: San Martin de los Andes

San Martin de los Andes is a thrill both in winter -with lots of snow and ski sasons that can last until october!- and summer, when rivers overflow with water and nature is in full bloom.

But it is in summer when the long walks and the exploring of thsi wonderful area can be done best.

Arriving usually in the afternoon, a good starting point for the weary traveller is a nice meal at La Tasca. Here you can satisfy your cravings for deer and trout. Another option is El Radal, which incorporates some "lighter" options on the menu.
The rest of the afternoon is well spent browsing shops with local crafts. Some shops to check out are La oveja Negra and Raices, with knitwear and wooden carvings.

The next morning you should first check the weather. If it looks like it can get windy, leave the visit to the Lolog for another day. This is the first lake to the north and although it´s fairly close, it offers a completely different scenery. It is renowned for being very changeable. If you visit it on a calm day it looks like a greenish mirror. Fishing addicts should check out Cabañas Andinas, where you´ll find fishing facilities. Here you can catch salmon, perch, brown and rainbow trout.
On the other side of the lake at the bottom end you´ll find Karl Moritz, a famous inhabitant. He has been living here since 1986 and is a painter and observer of trees and birds of the area. On the way back, there are riding excursions offered. From the back of a horse is one of the best ways to come in contact with the Andes and it´s stunning beauty.

The following day, prepare yourself for a close encounter with the conical symbol that gave it´s name to the National Park, the Lanin volcano. You´ll ascend in a circular circuit that takes you by Curruhue Chico and Grande rivers and Toro Verde and Escorial Lagoon, steps away from dark, solidified lava. When you reach the banks of Lake Epulaufken, you can take a boat to Puerto Canoa coffee shop for lunch. Or you could also stay at the Huechulaufken Inn, on the riverbank.
In the afternoon return to San Martin de los Andes through Junin de los Andes on the paved route 234.

The last day is for the adventurous ones, seeking adrenaline on the Hua Hum River. A guided excursion takes you on the Lacar lake and over the border for a quick visit of the Chilean side. Warning: you will probably get soaked!