The Seven Lakes Road
The Route of the Seven Lakes, or Ruta de los Siete Lagos, is a breathtaking scenic route winding through the heart of Argentine Patagonian Lake District (Northern Andean Patagonia). This iconic road offers stunning views of crystalline lakes, snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls.
An epic way to go from Villa La Angostura to San Martín de los Andes
The Seven Lakes Road stretches approximately 110 kilometers (68 miles) and connects the towns of San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura (or vice versa), in northern Patagonia, province of Neuquen. Another important hub in the nearby, is Bariloche, 80 km south from Villa La Angostura. Along this picturesque route, you’ll encounter seven stunning lakes:
- Lago Lácar: The largest of the seven lakes, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty.
- Lago Machónico: A smaller, more secluded lake, offering tranquil fishing and kayaking opportunities.
- Lago Falkner: A picturesque lake surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains.
- Lago Villarino: A deep, glacial lake with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
- Lago Escondido: A hidden gem, this lake is nestled amidst the mountains and offers a serene escape.
- Lago Correntoso: A popular spot for water sports and fishing, with beautiful beaches and clear waters.
- Lago Espejo: A mirror-like lake reflecting the surrounding mountains, creating breathtaking vistas.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to experience the Seven Lakes Road is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) seasons offer stunning fall foliage and blooming wildflowers.
How long does it take to drive along the Route of the Seven Lakes
The road is fully paved, except for the detours to places such as Lago Traful or Villa Meliquina. You can do it non-stop in 2 hours, but is recommended to do it slower, doing stops on the way.
If you start or end in Bariloche, it’s important to highlight that this city is about 80 km from Villa La Angostura, approx 1 hour, paved road, that you’d have to add to the Route of the Seven Lakes ride.
To enjoy more the experience, we suggest to spend at least a night in both destinations (Villa La Angostura and San Martin de los Andes). However, if you’re traveling within a tight agenda, you can do it as a full day activity (back and forth) from Bariloche, Villa La Angostura, or San Martín de los Andes.
If you don’t like driving, you can also hire a shared or private excursion (most of them start from Bariloche, full day, return or one way, depending on your preference).
There are also lodges and places to stay along the Route of the Seven Lakes Road between the final destinations, such as Rio Hermoso Mountain Lodge, near San Martin de los Andes.
Custom tours in Patagonia
We’re a local travel agency based in Argentina, which offers custom tours for visitors from abroad that would like to visit our country and the region.
We offer self-drive tours and other kinds of personalized journeys, such as those you can see below:
Patagonia Road Trips (Argentina and Chile)
Patagonia Tours (Argentina and Chile)
Mendoza to Bariloche road trip
Other related posts that you may find interesting:
Bariloche to El Calafate, how to go
Most picturesque Argentina-Chile border crossings
