The road that connects Villa La Angostura with the city of San Martin de Los Andes, is called “The 7 Lakes Route or Circuit”, in the 110 kilometers of its route, you can see unparalleled natural scenarios formed by lakes: Espejo, Correntoso, Escondido, Villarino , Falkner , Machónico and Lacar. This section of National Route 40 is a beautiful mountain road, crossing dense forests of native species, becoming an attraction in itself. During the tour you can visit both, the Lanin National Park and the Nahuel Huapi National Park.
In this tour you will find:
Espejo (Mirror) Lake
It is the first lake on the route known as the 7 Lakes Circuit. It has a wide sandy beach and the warmth of its waters attracts lots of tourist on summer. Its access is 200 mts from the crossing point of RN 40 and RN 231.
Espejo Lake Viewpoint: Located 1 Km from the crossing point of Routs 40 and 231, on a cliff, on the right side of the Route, this ViewPoint allows an spectacular panoramic view of Espejo Lake and its beach.
Correntoso Lake
Following your way through the “7 lakes Circuit” you´ll find the Correntoso Lake, one of the largest, with lots of bays and beaches. The mirror water that forms this lake, of a blue-green color, has approximately 27 km² and is framed by mountains of spectacular beauty. Its waters have a higher temperature than the Nahuel Huapi´s water .
Escondido ( Hidden)Lake
Five kilometers further, on your right hand, you´ll see a small lake called “Escondido”. It is worthwhile to enjoy the beauties of the place.
Villarino and Falkner Lakes
Separated by a narrow isthmus, they are two of the most beautiful lakes of this route. The road allows us to see the Villarino Lake from above, then descends through the isthmus, crossing the river that unites both lakes and is also called Villarino. Here there is a fishermen’s Hotel named Lago Villarino. It is a very good option to camp on the shores of Falkner Lake. Following the road, it goes through a wide valley where, on the left hand, there is the majestic Vullinanco waterfall which is a highly recommended stop with parking area.
Hermoso (Beautiful) Lake
From the Gendarmerie Post, you´ll find on the left hand a 2 km long path which takes you to the coast of the Hermoso Lake. Some people thinks it’s the most beautiful of this circuit: small and with its shores covered with abundant native forests, full of Coihues, Lengas, Ñires and some examples of Raulí. There is a camping place and supply service. There are also summer houses.
Machónico Lake
The road then continues to Machónico Lake, where a more arid landscape is found. Ahead on the road towards San Martin de los Andes, on your left hand, you can see a narrow zigzag stream, named the Cubebra .
Lácar Lake – San Martín de los Andes
Further on the road goes through the wide valley of the Pil Pil , occupied for decades by Mapuche aborigines. Not far from San Martin de los Andes, on your right hand, you will find the road that leads to Chapelco, San Martin´s ski center.
